Distribution Operations Manager Jobs in Cicero, IL

Sun Belle is seeking a hands-on, motivated Assistant Operations Manager to support daily warehouse and distribution operations at our Schiller Park facility. This role will work closely with the Operations Manager to oversee shipping, receiving, order building, repacking operations, inventory accuracy, food safety compliance, labor management, and overall warehouse efficiency.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader who can thrive in a fast-paced cold-chain produce environment, communicate effectively with employees and management, and help drive operational excellence while maintaining a safe and organized workplace.

Key Responsibilities

· Assist with the day-to-day operations of the warehouse and distribution center

· Help supervise warehouse employees, order builders, forklift operators, QC staff, and repack teams

· Support shipping and receiving operations to ensure accurate and timely order fulfillment

· Monitor workflow, labor productivity, and operational efficiency

· Assist with scheduling labor based on daily business demands

· Help oversee inventory control and product rotation

· Ensure compliance with food safety, GMP, OSHA, and company policies

· Support repack and rework programs while maintaining quality standards

· Assist with troubleshooting operational issues and implementing process improvements

· Monitor cooler temperatures, equipment functionality, and warehouse conditions

· Work closely with Quality Assurance and Shipping departments to maintain customer standards

· Support training and development of warehouse personnel

· Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment

· Assist with reporting, operational documentation, and ERP system activities

· Serve as a leader during peak production periods and help drive accountability throughout the operation

·Previous warehouse, distribution, or operations leadership experience required

· Experience in produce, food distribution, cold storage, or manufacturing preferred

· Strong leadership and communication skills

· Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment

· Experience managing hourly labor and warehouse workflow

· Familiarity with inventory systems and ERP/WMS platforms preferred

· Knowledge of food safety and GMP practices preferred

· Forklift experience is a plus

· Strong problem-solving and organizational skills

· Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Excel and Outlook

· Must be flexible with schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends as needed.

Salary: 60k-70k

Physical Requirements

· Ability to work in refrigerated warehouse environments ranging from approximately 34°F to 50°F

· Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift throughout the shift

· Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds when necessary

· Comfortable working around warehouse equipment, including forklifts and electric pallet jacks

Why Join Sun Belle

· Opportunity to grow within a fast-paced produce and distribution company

· Hands-on leadership role with operational impact

· Comprehensive benefits package, which includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) plan with company match

· Paid time off (PTO) and company holidays

· Ongoing career development, training, and advancement opportunities

· Employer-provided life insurance, with optional supplemental coverage available

Notice: Sun Belle is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability, or any other protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

Sun Belle has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the company reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as the company may deem appropriate.