Warehouse Operations Manager

Position Summary

The Warehouse Operations Manager will be responsible for managing the warehouse team at the Hub and overseeing the overall food flow through the warehouses at 5151 N. Ravenswood. This position involves strategy, hands‑on execution, and innovation in food acquisition, inventory, storage, and delivery models.

This role primarily works out of Nourishing Hope’s Hub, located at 5151 N. Ravenswood in Chicago. Hours vary slightly on different days but all take place between Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. The role may occasionally support Saturday shifts or our Headquarters (1716 W Hubbard St) for unexpected staffing.

• Strategic Leadership & People Management:
  Direct the Warehouse Operations Coordinators by setting schedules, managing performance, establishing development goals. Oversee recruitment, training, development and coaching to ensure optimal warehouse operations and a high‑quality volunteer experience.
• Operational Excellence & Inventory Control:
  Lead all warehouse activities, manage inventory, conduct food‑safety inspections, and continuously improve tracking systems. Collaborate with program staff to align inventory with program requirements.
• Safety & Regulatory Compliance:
  Lead safety initiatives, ensure operations adhere to OSHA, GCFD and health‑code regulations, conduct training, investigate incidents and promote a safety culture.
• Cross‑Functional Coordination & Sourcing:
  Partner with the COO and Procurement Coordinator to align capacity with procurement budgets and long‑term goals. Assist in the ordering process through the Greater Chicago Food Depository and coordinate deliveries.
• Logistics Optimization & Tech Support:
  Develop and execute continuous improvement strategies to optimize food flow and logistics with the Transportation Manager. Maintain proficiency in warehouse equipment, including forklifts, and act as operational backup for loading, unloading or driving as needed.

Required:

• At least 3 years of professional experience in a warehouse or fulfillment center, with a minimum of 2 years in a supervisory role.
• Excellent leadership skills.
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills, and the ability to deliver effective oral presentations to large and small groups.
• Strong problem‑solving and project‑management skills.
• Ability to efficiently handle shifting and multiple priorities.
• Ability to switch between strategic and tactical responsibilities.
• Strong data analysis skills to drive decision making.
• Ability to think strategically, anticipate future consequences and trends, and incorporate them into the organizational plan.
• Computer proficiency, particularly Google Workspace.
• Experience operating forklifts, pallet stackers and pallet jacks.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 100 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to move pallets of food weighing up to 3,000 pounds using warehouse equipment.
• Understanding of and belief in the importance of food security for everyone.

Highly Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Experience in supply‑chain management, grocery, and/or anti‑hunger or anti‑poverty organization.
• Valid driver’s license.

• Manual dexterity to use computer, mouse, telephone and other standard office equipment.
• Ability to lift, bend, crouch and reach.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle (van).
• Ability to operate a forklift safely (license required; can be obtained after hire).
• Heavy work:
  Moving up to 3,000 pounds utilizing warehouse equipment.
• Close visual acuity (with correction) to read needed documents, papers and computer terminal.
• Visual acuity (with correction) to operate a motor vehicle (van).

Salary Range: $60,000 – $65,000.

• Health, dental and vision insurance coverage.
• Employer‑paid life and disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution.
• Generous paid time off.
• Paid birthday holiday.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Parental leave.
• Language pay.
• $250 employee referral bonus.
• Free subscription to mental wellness app.

Because we are a Medicaid provider, all applicants who are offered employment with Nourishing Hope will be subject to a background screening. Offers are contingent on the successful completion of a background screening conducted in accordance with Nourishing Hope policy and federal, state and local laws.