Logistics & Warehouse Manager

Urban Farmer LLC•Manteno, IL

About The Position

The Logistics & Warehouse Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of warehouse operations, inventory management, and logistics functions to ensure the efficient flow of goods through the supply chain. This role manages warehouse staff, coordinates inbound and outbound transportation, ensures compliance with food safety and OSHA standards, and drives continuous improvement in warehouse and logistics processes. The manager will play a key role in optimizing cost, efficiency, and service across storage, shipping, and distribution channels.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations, or related field; or 5+ years equivalent experience in logistics and warehouse management within food manufacturing or related industry.
Strong knowledge of logistics, transportation management, and warehouse operations.
Experience managing ERP/WMS systems for inventory and shipping processes.
Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop teams.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills for cross-department collaboration and vendor negotiations.
Ability to manage budgets, meet deadlines, and deliver against performance targets.

Responsibilities

Oversee all warehouse staff (forklift drivers, inventory specialists, gatekeepers, shipping & receiving).
Ensure compliance with OSHA, GMP, Food Safety, and company policies at all times.
Develop and enforce warehouse procedures covering product handling, storage, safety, sanitation, and shipping.
Manage ERP system for work orders, scanning, and material tracking to production lines.
Analyze daily consumption, inventory, and production needs to anticipate shortages or excess.
Manage all inbound and outbound logistics, including scheduling, routing, and carrier/vendor coordination.
Negotiate with freight carriers and logistics providers to optimize cost, service, and on-time delivery.
Monitor KPIs such as on-time delivery, freight costs, transit times, and damage claims.
Oversee transportation compliance with DOT, FDA, and customer-specific requirements.
Coordinate cross-functional logistics needs with Procurement, Production, and Customer Service teams.
Maintain accurate inventory through cycle counts and audits; resolve discrepancies proactively.
Ensure warehouse space optimization for maximum efficiency and product flow.
Collaborate with Supply Chain team to align material availability with production and customer orders.
Implement process improvements to reduce costs, minimize waste, and enhance overall efficiency.
Train, mentor, and evaluate warehouse and logistics staff for performance, safety, and compliance.
Establish department goals, track KPIs, and present results to leadership.
Lead initiatives for continuous improvement in logistics and warehouse operations, including automation and system enhancements.
Act as primary crisis coordinator for logistics and distribution challenges.