Context
The Common Market is a nonprofit food distributor working to build a more resilient and equitable food system. Through our regional food hubs, we connect local farmers to schools, hospitals, and community organizationsโmoving fresh, high-quality food through a mission-driven supply chain.
Our Philadelphia warehouse is a fast-paced, refrigerated distribution environment where precision, teamwork, and accountability matter. This role sits at the center of daily executionโensuring that what we promise to customers is delivered accurately, safely, and on time.
Role Overview
The Warehouse Lead (Level 3) is the operational backbone of the afternoon shift. You are responsible for making sure receiving, inventory, order fulfillment, and outbound logistics run smoothlyโand that the team executes consistently at a high standard.
This is not a sit-back supervisory role. You will be on the floor, solving problems in real time, coaching staff, and stepping in wherever needed to keep operations moving.
You will work closely with the General Manager and play a key role in preparing the warehouse for the next dayโs deliveries.
What Youโll Do
Lead Daily Operations
ยท Oversee receiving, inventory control, picking, packing, and staging
ยท Ensure all outbound orders are accurate, complete, and ready on time
ยท Support routing and staging for efficient truck loading
Own Execution Quality
ยท Maintain high standards for accuracy, product quality, and organization
ยท Ensure proper lot tracking, labeling, and FIFO practices
ยท Identify and resolve issues before they impact customers
Supervise & Develop the Team
ยท Lead and coach warehouse associates throughout the shift
ยท Reinforce standard operating procedures and safe work practices
ยท Provide real-time feedback and support performance improvement
Drive Continuous Improvement
ยท Spot inefficiencies and implement practical fixes
ยท Help improve workflows, layout, and communication across shifts
Maintain Food Safety & Compliance
ยท Uphold all food safety, sanitation, and temperature control standards
ยท Ensure logs, checks, and processes are completed consistently
Who This Role Is For
ยท You take pride in running a tight, organized operation
ยท You are comfortable holding people accountable while building trust
ยท You can balance speed and accuracy without cutting corners
ยท You are calm under pressure and able to make decisions quickly
ยท You enjoy being hands-on and leading from the floor
Who This Role Is Not For
ยท Someone looking for a purely administrative or desk-based role
ยท Someone who avoids difficult conversations or performance management
ยท Someone who needs constant direction instead of taking ownership
ยท Someone uncomfortable working in cold environments or doing physical work
ยท Someone who prefers flexibility over a fixed, high-accountability schedule
Qualifications
ยท 3+ years of warehouse, distribution, or logistics experience (food preferred)
ยท 2+ years of hands-on experience in both order selection and receiving
ยท Prior experience leading or supervising a team
ยท Forklift certification (or ability to obtain)
ยท Strong understanding of inventory systems and basic computer skills
ยท Familiarity with food safety standards and best practices
Working Conditions & Schedule
ยท Schedule: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday | 11:00 AM โ 7:00 PM
ยท Refrigerated warehouse environment (cold conditions)
ยท Regular lifting up to 50 lbs
ยท Fast-paced, physically active work
Compensation & Benefits
ยท $25.75/hour (Full-Time)
ยท Medical, Dental, Vision
ยท SIMPLE IRA with 100% employer match
ยท Employer-paid Life, AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability
ยท Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, holidays)
ยท Ongoing training and development
Why This Role Matters
This role directly impacts our ability to deliver on our mission. When this job is done well, farmers get reliable market access, and schools and hospitals receive high-quality food they can trust.
If youโre someone who wants to lead from the front and take ownership of real operational outcomes, this is a role where your work will be visible and meaningful every day.