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Dock Operations Supervisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Des Moines, IA Job Summary The Supervisor is responsible for overseeing daily terminal and dock operations, ensuring freight is handled, sorted, loaded, and unloaded safely and efficiently. This role ...

Previous supervisory or leadership experience preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities * Strong leadership and employee development skills. * Knowledge of freight handling, dock operations, and ...

DOCK LEAD

Normal, IL · On-site

$20 - $20.50/hr

A Dock Lead provides on-shift supervision at an assigned location when the Supervisor is not present. They help ensure dock operations, material handling, and housekeeping duties are completed safely ...

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Dock Operations Supervisor information

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$89.5K

$94K

$98K

How much do dock operations supervisor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for dock operations supervisor in the United States is $93,980.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,000.00 and $96,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What should a supervisor be paid?

The salary for a Dock Operations Supervisor typically ranges from $45,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Supervisors in this role often oversee dock staff, coordinate logistics, and ensure safety compliance, with some positions offering additional benefits or overtime pay.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dock Operations Supervisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dock Operations Supervisor, you need strong knowledge of logistics, warehouse management, and safety procedures, often supported by experience in shipping/receiving and a relevant high school diploma or associate degree. Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS), inventory tracking software, and forklift operation certifications is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you manage teams and coordinate efficiently with other departments. These abilities are crucial for ensuring smooth dock operations, minimizing errors, and maintaining a safe and productive work environment.

What does a dock supervisor do?

A dock operations supervisor oversees the loading and unloading of goods at a dock, ensuring safety, efficiency, and proper handling of shipments. They coordinate with drivers, warehouse staff, and logistics teams, often using inventory management systems, and may be responsible for maintaining safety protocols and compliance. The role typically requires strong organizational skills and knowledge of safety regulations.

What is the difference between Dock Operations Supervisor vs Dock Worker?

AspectDock Operations SupervisorDock Worker
ResponsibilitiesOversees dock activities, manages staff, ensures safety and efficiencyPerforms loading, unloading, and handling cargo
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, relevant certifications, supervisory experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role in dockyard or port settingHands-on cargo handling in dock or warehouse
Industry UsageCommonly employed in logistics, shipping, and freight companiesFound in similar industries, often working under supervision

The main difference between a Dock Operations Supervisor and a Dock Worker is that the supervisor manages dock activities and staff, ensuring safety and efficiency, while the dock worker focuses on cargo handling tasks. The supervisor role requires additional responsibilities and often some supervisory credentials, whereas the dock worker performs the physical labor involved in loading and unloading cargo.

What are Dock Operations Supervisors?

Dock Operations Supervisors are responsible for overseeing the daily activities on a loading dock, ensuring the safe and efficient loading and unloading of freight. They manage dock workers, coordinate schedules, enforce safety regulations, and monitor inventory movements. These supervisors also address issues related to shipping, receiving, and inventory control, while maintaining communication with warehouse management and transportation teams. Their role is crucial in ensuring timely deliveries and smooth warehouse operations.

What is the highest paying job in a warehouse?

In warehouse operations, the highest paying roles are often warehouse managers or logistics directors, who oversee operations, optimize processes, and manage staff. These positions typically require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of supply chain management, with salaries significantly higher than entry-level roles. Specialized roles such as supply chain analysts or operations directors can also command high compensation depending on the company's size and complexity.

How to become a dock supervisor?

To become a dock supervisor, candidates typically need previous experience in dock or warehouse operations, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of safety protocols. Many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may require certifications such as OSHA safety training. Advancement often involves gaining experience as a dock worker or team lead before moving into supervisory roles.

What are some common challenges faced by a Dock Operations Supervisor, and how can they be effectively managed?

Dock Operations Supervisors often encounter challenges such as coordinating schedules to prevent bottlenecks, ensuring safety compliance, and managing a diverse team under tight deadlines. Effective communication and proactive planning are crucial for addressing these issues. By implementing standardized procedures, using logistics software, and fostering a culture of teamwork, supervisors can improve efficiency and reduce the risk of errors or accidents. Regular training and clear performance expectations also help the team stay aligned and motivated.
More about Dock Operations Supervisor jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Dock Operations Supervisor jobs? The top employers for Dock Operations Supervisor jobs are:
What states have the most Dock Operations Supervisor jobs? States with the most job openings for Dock Operations Supervisor jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Dock Operations Supervisor jobs? For Dock Operations Supervisor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Dock Operations Supervisor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $93,980 per year, or $45.2 per hour.
Dock Supervisor

$60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


AAA Cooper Transportation rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 63 rated delivery companies


Job description

We are immediately hiring an Outbound Dock Supervisor at our Des Moines, IAservice center.
PM/ Outbond Dock Supervisor
Shift: Nights 10pm-8am
Pay starting at $60,000
Location:
Des Moines, IA
Job Summary
The Supervisor is responsible for overseeing daily terminal and dock operations, ensuring freight is handled, sorted, loaded, and unloaded safely and efficiently. This role manages dockworkers and shift teams, enforces compliance with company policies and government regulations, and drives operational excellence through training, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
  • Monitor employee safety practices daily.
  • Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and other federal/state regulations.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free dock environment.
  • Supervise dockworkers and assign tasks to optimize labor and equipment utilization.
  • Ensure trailers are loaded/unloaded correctly to guarantee safe freight transport.
  • Review operational reports and provide recommendations to improve efficiency, service quality, and cost control.
  • Make quick, informed decisions based on freight volume and communicate schedules to staff.
  • Coach and train employees on safety procedures, company policies, company procedures, and operational performance.
  • Provide constructive feedback and manage disciplinary actions when necessary.
  • Conduct daily shift meetings to align teams with business objectives.
  • Utilize internal freight monitoring systems (LTL38, VTrack, YMS, Maven) to track shipments, productivity, and ensure proper freight movement.
  • Complete required company and government forms, including hazmat documents, manifests, freight bills, and exception reports.
  • Partner with Operations and Service Center Managers to meet daily, weekly, and monthly performance goals.
  • Provide analysis and suggestions for operational improvements across shifts and departments.
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Experience in warehouse, freight, dock, or logistics operations.
  • Prior supervisory or team leadership experience.
  • Knowledge of DOT regulations, OSHA standards, and safe freight-handling practices.
  • Forklift certification or hazmat training preferred.
  • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in verifying shipments.
  • Successful completion of new-hire training, including assessments, and forklift test.
  • Minimum 18 years of age.

Physical Requirements
This position requires but is not limited to the following physical requirements: sitting, standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing, material moving, lifting, and reaching.
In addition, this position requires but is not limited to the following cognitive requirements: Maintain situational awareness, read manifests, interpret navigation, and identify shipment labels accurately. Regular and reliable attendance is required.
Working Environment
This position operates in various environments, including indoor docks, enclosed vehicles, and outdoor areas. Work may occur in extreme temperatures, inclement weather, low-light conditions, and around moving equipment or other personnel engaged in freight handling.
Operating Schedule
Days: Monday through Sunday (varies by business needs)
Shifts: AM/PM

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