What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager, Logistics Operations position at Northwest Pathology, PS?
JOB SUMMARY
The Logistics Operations Manager is a pivotal leadership role within the Operations Department, overseeing, coordinating, and optimizing all aspects of courier services, fleet management, and third-party logistics to ensure efficient, cost-effective, and timely transportation of materials. This role leads a team of employed couriers, manages relationships with contracted and third-party courier services, and oversees partnerships with key vendors such as FedEx, UPS, and Path-Tec. Ensuring compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements, the Logistics Operations Manager is critical in maintaining seamless operations and exceptional service quality.
This position requires a deep understanding of the operational and technical aspects of laboratory logistics, along with strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills. The Logistics Operations Manager acts as a central point of support for clients, patients, and internal teams, ensuring courteous and professional service while contributing to the overall success of laboratory operations.
Avero Diagnostics operates on a 24/7/365 basis; an individual is required to be responsive and work various shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays. Schedule flexibility with and without advance notice is required.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
- Manage and oversee all employed courier team members, ensuring schedules, workflows, and daily operations efficiently meet organizational needs.
- Supervise and maintain relationships with contracted courier services (e.g., FCN, SRH) and third-party logistics providers (e.g., Lab Logistics, MedSpeed, Carter's), ensuring timely, cost-effective service.
- Oversee the organization’s fleet of vehicles, including scheduling preventive maintenance, coordinating repairs, ensuring regulatory compliance, and equipping vehicles with necessary supplies.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for FedEx, UPS, and Path-Tec, ensuring seamless specimen shipments and addressing any issues promptly.
- Investigate and resolve complaints related to missed deliveries or service issues, implementing corrective actions to maintain customer satisfaction.
- Develop staffing plans and schedules to meet operational needs while maintaining team efficiency and effectiveness.
- Administer employment actions, including recruitment, performance reviews, coaching, and staff development, to foster a high-performing, compliant team.
- Place and manage supply orders, ensuring all courier teams have necessary UN3373 shipping supplies and other critical resources.
- Monitor daily movement reports to ensure accuracy and timeliness of deliveries, resolving discrepancies as needed.
- Resolve logistics-related challenges, such as delays, damages, or quality concerns, to ensure minimal disruption to operations.
- Analyze operational data and compile Quality Assurance reports to identify areas for improvement and optimize processes.
- Maintain accurate records of logistics activities, including client communications, courier schedules, and vendor interactions.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory standards in all courier and logistics operations.
- Review and approve timecards within payroll deadlines, ensuring accuracy and adherence to schedules.
- Promote team health and safety by collaborating with the EHS Specialist, reporting incidents, and implementing corrective measures.
- Coordinate with other departments to ensure alignment between logistics operations and organizational goals.
- Develop and maintain operational standards, workflows, and procedures for the logistics and courier teams.
- Provide flexible, responsive support for the 24/7/365 nature of operations, including availability for nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- Perform additional logistics-related tasks and duties as assigned to support the organization’s goals.
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/LICENSE
- High School Diploma or equivalent required
- A bachelor’s degree in business administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred.
- Active and valid US State-Issued Driver’s License with acceptable motor vehicle record as defined and approved by our vehicle insurance carrier.
EXPERIENCE
- Minimum 5 years of experience required:
- Proven experience in a leadership role managing a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Extensive experience in high-demand client operations, with a strong understanding of company services and policies.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and manage operational standards, including workflow, task assignments, policies, processes, and procedures.
- Experience managing third-party vendors and negotiating contracts.
- Laboratory and/or healthcare environment experience is a plus.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Proficient in using logistics management software, transportation management systems (TMS), and other relevant tools.
- Knowledge of domestic shipping regulations and documentation requirements.
- Proficient in using client relationship management software, laboratory information systems, and other relevant tools.
- Exhibits patience and approachability, sets positive tone and example for team member behavior, work ethic & quality, abilities, skills, and overall performance.
- Demonstrates high integrity and maintains confidentiality at all levels.
- Exhibits strong leadership and team management abilities, setting a positive tone and example for team behavior, work ethic, and performance.
- Establishes and maintains solid interpersonal relationships with team members across all organizational levels.
- Communicates professionally and effectively, both in writing and speaking, with the ability to understand and actively listen.
- Motivated, organized, and a self-starter, excelling at time management, follow-up, and meeting commitments with a passion for continuous improvement.
- Strong attention to detail, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with a proactive ability to identify, assess, and resolve complex challenges.
- Proven track record of accountability, delivering high-quality work within deadlines.
- Works collaboratively within a team and independently with minimal supervision, adapting to fast-paced, high-growth environments.
- Skilled in conflict resolution, negotiation, and effective facilitation and collaboration.
- Exhibits professionalism in appearance, communication, and actions.
- Proficient in various software applications, including MS Windows, Outlook, Word, Excel, and healthcare databases.
- Regular, predictable attendance and punctuality.
- Focused on team success and goals rather than individual achievement.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- This position operates in a fast-paced office and lab environment, requiring adherence to daily workload demands, potential exposure to chemicals, and the use of personal protective equipment and universal precautions.
- The role involves regular use of standard office equipment, including computers, printers, phones, and mobile devices, in a work environment with noise levels ranging from moderate to loud.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- The position may require exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, 10 pounds frequently, and negligible force constantly to move objects.
- Regular activities include talking, hearing, sitting, standing, walking, using hands to handle or feel, grasping, reaching, and performing repetitive movements with wrists, hands, and fingers.
- Specific vision abilities include close visual acuity and the ability to adjust focus for tasks such as data analysis, reading reports, transcribing, viewing computer monitors, and legally operating a motor vehicle.
- Avero is an equal-opportunity employer and strives to provide a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities under applicable laws.
The duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description are intended to provide a general overview of the primary functions, required knowledge and skills, and scope of responsibility for the role. This is not an exhaustive list of all job requirements, and employees may be asked to perform additional duties, work various shifts, or assist in other areas to cover absences, manage peak workloads, or balance staffing needs. These job details are not intended to create an employment contract and are subject to change at the employer's discretion.
Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM