Oregon Container Terminal – Terminal Operations Manager
Position Title: Terminal Operations Manager
Job Summary
The Terminal Operations Manager at Oregon Container Terminal (OCT), formerly Port of Portland Terminal 6, is responsible for the day-to-day oversight of terminal labor, vessel, yard, gate, and rail operations, ensuring the efficient, safe, and cost-effective handling of containerized cargo at the Port of Portland. This is an in-person position based in Portland, Oregon. The role serves as the direct supervisor of the labor force, ensuring compliance with collective bargaining agreements and regulatory requirements while driving productivity, operational excellence, and continuous improvement across all terminal functions.
Key Responsibilities
- Promote a strong culture of safety and ensure compliance with all company policies, OSHA standards, PCMSC regulations, and maritime safety requirements
- Supervise and manage daily work assignments across vessel, yard, gate, and rail operations
- Assess labor needs for each shift and direct dispatchers in ordering appropriate labor in accordance with ILWU agreements
- Hire, schedule, and when necessary, discipline or terminate labor in accordance with union contract terms and company policy
- Monitor and enforce attendance standards and ensure accurate payroll documentation and reporting
- Use discretion and sound judgment to reallocate labor and equipment resources to optimize productivity and reduce downtime
- Manage coordination between vessel operations, yard planning, gate operations, and on-dock rail to maintain efficient container flow
- Oversee equipment utilization and coordinate maintenance scheduling to minimize operational disruption
- Prepare, manage, and track departmental budgets, including labor forecasting and productivity analysis
- Produce and review operational reports related to production metrics, crane productivity, turn times, dwell times, and labor deployment
- Handle labor grievances, disciplinary procedures, and arbitrations with working knowledge of ILWU contracts and established grievance processes
- Collaborate with executive leadership, customers, and port stakeholders to ensure service commitments are met
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Maritime Operations, Logistics, or a related field preferred.
Equivalent industry experience may be considered
Experience
- Minimum 5–7 years of terminal or stevedoring operations management experience
- Experience in a unionized environment strongly preferred
- Experience managing container operations at a marine terminal preferred
Knowledge
- In-depth knowledge of vessel, yard, gate, and rail operations within a container terminal environment
- Familiarity with ILWU labor agreements and West Coast maritime labor practices
- Regulatory knowledge including OSHA, PCMSC, and hazardous materials compliance
- Understanding of port authority coordination and maritime logistics systems
Must have:
- TWIC Card (or the ability to obtain one from TSA)
- Valid Driver's License with clean record
Skills
- Strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills
- Ability to manage shifting operational priorities and make timely, data-driven decisions
- Proficiency with Terminal Operating Systems (TOS) and Microsoft Office Suite
- Ability to analyze budgets, labor forecasts, and operational performance metrics
- Strong organizational skills and ability to work in high-pressure environments
Work Environment & Schedule
- This is a fully in-person position located in Portland, Oregon
- Position requires availability for rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, based on vessel schedules and operational demands
- Work is performed in both office and outdoor terminal environments
- Exposure to weather conditions, elevated noise levels, heavy equipment, and active vessel operations is expected
- Frequent walking across terminal yards and climbing stairs/ladders may be required
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $80,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person