Shipping Operations Manager

About Us

Smalley is the global manufacturing leader of precision metal‑formed products – known for our Spirolox® retaining rings and Crest‑to‑Crest® wave springs. Our success is propelled by our inventive spirit, devoted team members, extensive engineering proficiency, and technical ability, cultivated by over 100 years of manufacturing excellence. We supply to industries including aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, robotics and industrial machinery – supporting over 70% of the Fortune 500 global manufacturers.

We are proud of our commitment to delivering innovative, high‑quality products, relentless pursuit of improvement, and unwavering dedication to providing excellent service to our valued customers.

At Smalley, we take pride in cultivating an inclusive work environment that values creativity, collaboration and diversity. We empower associates to push the boundaries of what is possible and nurture an enjoyable work atmosphere through Spirit Days, Cancer Awareness events, Health and Wellness activities, and sports opportunities such as basketball, bag‑toss, and ping pong.

• Competitive compensation and benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) match, Life insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, PTO and more
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional growth
• Ongoing learning, training and development opportunities
• Company and department‑led team‑building activities and events

• Manage the Shipping & Logistics department, including team performance, coaching, onboarding, and training.
• Plan and coordinate daily shipping activities to meet customer promised ship dates and service commitments.
• Partner with internal teams (Customer Service, Quality, Manufacturing, Distribution) and external carriers to ensure smooth movement of goods and timely issue resolution.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of freight carriers and transportation modes (LTL, parcel, freight forwarders) and manage carrier relationships both operationally and strategically.
• Ensure accurate shipping documentation and material flow from job creation through final shipment; establish standards to support quality and consistency.
• Ensure compliance with export regulations, tariff classifications, licensing requirements, and applicable trade agreements; help mitigate customs/export‑control and security‑related risks.
• Analyze data, trends, and feedback to guide departmental planning, proactively identify risks, and implement preventative measures.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives, including lean activities, across the department, engaging employees and aligning efforts to company goals.
• Optimize team structure, tools, and workflows; address root causes of inefficiency and remove barriers to execution.
• Communicate priorities clearly and translate leadership direction into actionable expectations for the team.

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience managing logistics, transportation, shipping operations, or a related function.
• Experience with both domestic and international shipping and trade documentation.
• Working knowledge of export regulations, customs procedures, and international trade compliance.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and logistics/transportation software; ability to learn and use ERP/TMS tools.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and manage multiple priorities.

• Professional certification (e.g., APICS/ASCM, CSCMP, or similar).
• Experience driving lean/continuous improvement in a distribution, manufacturing, or warehouse environment.
• Experience with ERP systems and transportation management software (TMS).

• Primarily office‑based with regular computer and phone use; may include time in a distribution/warehouse environment as needed.
• Prolonged sitting; occasional standing/walking.
• Frequent hand/arm use for typing and handling documents.
• Ability to read and…