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Container Terminal Manager Jobs in Buffalo, NY (NOW HIRING)

... managing container freight, port operations, and rail ramp activity, who thrives in a fast-paced ... Resolve shipment issues by collaborating with carriers, customers, terminals, ports, rail providers ...

Container Terminal Manager information

See Buffalo, NY salary details

$34.9K

$69.7K

$107.5K

How much do container terminal manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for container terminal manager in Buffalo, NY is $69,657.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,200.00 and $78,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a container terminal manager faces, and how can they be addressed effectively?

Container Terminal Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating large teams, optimizing cargo flow, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Managing unexpected disruptions—like equipment breakdowns or adverse weather—requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick, informed decisions. Successful managers foster clear communication between operational staff, shipping lines, and port authorities, and often leverage technology to streamline terminal operations. Addressing these challenges involves proactive planning, ongoing staff training, and staying updated on industry best practices.

What is the difference between Container Terminal Manager vs Port Operations Supervisor?

AspectContainer Terminal ManagerPort Operations Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees terminal operations, manages staff, coordinates logistics, ensures safety and efficiencySupervises daily port activities, manages staff, monitors cargo handling, enforces safety protocols
Required CredentialsRelevant certifications, logistics or maritime experience, leadership skillsPort-specific certifications, operational experience, safety training
Work EnvironmentContainer terminals, logistics hubs, port facilitiesPort terminals, cargo handling areas, operational offices
Industry UsageCommonly used in large shipping ports and terminal operationsUsed across various port operations, including cargo and vessel management

The Container Terminal Manager focuses on overall terminal operations, logistics, and strategic management, while the Port Operations Supervisor handles daily port activities and cargo handling. Both roles require relevant certifications and experience in port environments, but the manager has broader responsibilities overseeing the entire terminal.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a container terminal manager?

To thrive as a Container Terminal Manager, you need expertise in logistics operations, supply chain management, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience in maritime or transportation fields. Familiarity with terminal operating systems (TOS), cargo handling equipment, and certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help manage teams and coordinate with various stakeholders. These competencies ensure efficient terminal operations, compliance with safety standards, and smooth cargo movement in a dynamic port environment.

What does a container terminal manager do?

A Container Terminal Manager oversees the operations of a shipping container terminal, ensuring the efficient movement, storage, and handling of containerized cargo. They are responsible for managing staff, coordinating logistics, maintaining safety standards, and optimizing terminal productivity. This role involves liaising with shipping companies, port authorities, and logistics providers to ensure smooth cargo flow and compliance with regulations.
What job categories do people searching Container Terminal Manager jobs in Buffalo, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Container Terminal Manager jobs in Buffalo, NY are:
What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Container Terminal Manager jobs? Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Container Terminal Manager job openings:

Logistics Operations Coordinator

StaffBuffalo

Buffalo, NY • Hybrid

$10K - $20K/mo

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Logistics Operations Coordinator

Overview:

StaffBuffalo is working with a growing logistics and transportation organization in the Buffalo area to hire a Logistics Operations Coordinator, offering a base salary of $70,000 - $75,000, plus the opportunity to earn monthly commission that can add an additional $10,000 - $20,000 annually based on performance. This role is ideal for an experienced logistics professional with verifiable experience managing container freight, port operations, and rail ramp activity, who thrives in a fast-paced environment where urgency, accuracy, and customer service are critical.

In this position, you will manage shipments from start to finish, coordinating with carriers, customers, ports, rail providers, and internal teams to ensure freight moves efficiently while meeting strict delivery timelines. You will serve as the primary liaison between customers and transportation providers, negotiating rates, arranging carriers, tracking container movements, and proactively preventing delays, storage charges, and detention fees.
You will join a small, high-performing operations team where each coordinator manages their own book of business and takes full ownership of shipments. This environment rewards initiative, attention to detail, and a strong sense of urgency while offering autonomy, collaboration, and the opportunity to increase your earnings through monthly commission.

Responsibilities:

  • Coordinate domestic and intermodal freight movements by arranging transportation with outside carriers while ensuring shipments move according to required delivery timelines.
  • Review and enter delivery orders into the Transportation Management System (TMS), verifying shipment information.
  • Track and trace container shipments through ports, rail ramps, and inland transportation networks while providing proactive updates.
  • Negotiate freight rates with customers and carriers.
  • Build and maintain relationships with transportation providers while sourcing new carrier partners.
  • Resolve shipment issues by collaborating with carriers, customers, terminals, ports, rail providers, and internal teams.
  • Maintain accurate shipment documentation and records.

Qualifications:

  • Verifiable experience with container freight, port operations, and rail ramp logistics is required.
  • Experience in transportation brokerage, freight forwarding, logistics dispatching, intermodal operations, or similar.
  • Strong knowledge of container tracking, port operations, rail ramp movements, and domestic transportation coordination.
  • Excellent communication and attention to detail.
  • Ability to multitask in a deadline-driven environment.
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or related field is a plus.

Benefits:

  • Base salary of $70,000 - $75,000 plus monthly commission potential of approximately $10,000 - $20,000 annually.
  • Opportunity to increase earnings as you grow freight volume.
  • Hybrid work schedule after onboarding.
  • Collaborative operations team.
  • Exposure to complex container, port, rail, and domestic freight operations.
  • Long-term career growth.
  • Supportive leadership team.

#INDSBHIGH

The advertised pay range represents what we believe at the time of this job posting, that our client would be willing to pay for this position. Only in special circumstances, where a candidate has education, training, or experience that far exceeds the requirements for the position, would we consider paying higher than the stated range.

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