Dock Manager
Full-time
Portland, OR, USA
Posted on Sep 30, 2026
Summary Overview
The Dock Manager plays a key leadership role in overseeing all dock operations, including the loading and unloading of aircraft, cargo, and baggage handling. This position is responsible for ensuring daily operations are performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with company policies and aviation regulations.
The Dock Manager leads and develops a team of supervisors and dock agents while coordinating closely with airline representatives, ground handling teams, airport departments, and other operational partners. This role also focuses on staffing, equipment utilization, quality control, operational performance, and continuous improvement.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee daily dock operations, ensuring the safe and efficient loading and unloading of cargo and baggage.
- Lead, coach, and develop dock supervisors and agents while promoting a strong culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.
- Develop and implement strategies to improve dock workflow, productivity, and resource utilization.
- Coordinate with airline representatives, ground handlers, and airport departments to support seamless operations.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, security, company, and aviation regulations.
- Monitor the condition, availability, and utilization of ground support equipment (GSE) and coordinate maintenance as needed.
- Manage staffing schedules and equipment assignments based on flight schedules and operational demands.
- Analyze operational data and performance metrics to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
- Resolve complex operational issues and handle escalations from supervisors and dock personnel.
- Conduct and oversee training related to safety, handling procedures, operational standards, and customer service.
- Implement and maintain quality control standards for cargo and baggage handling.
- Participate in airport emergency planning and response activities as required.
- Manage the dock operations budget, including staffing, equipment, and other operational expenses.
- Maintain clear and effective communication with employees, airline partners, airport personnel, and company leadership.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, efficiency, service quality, and team performance.
- Utilize Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, email, and other operational systems as required.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management.
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.
- Minimum 1 year of experience as a Dock Supervisor or in a comparable leadership role.
- Minimum 2 years of dock operations experience.
- Knowledge of the aviation industry and airport operations.
- Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to access, interpret, and communicate information using computers, tablets, mobile devices, and other electronic systems.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively with employees, clients, and operational partners.
- Must successfully pass required background checks and drug screening.
- Must be eligible to obtain all required airport credentials and security clearances, including FAA, RAIC, TSA, Port Authority, U.S. Customs, and U.S. Postal clearances, as applicable.
- Must be flexible to work various shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays, as airline and airport operations run 24/7.
Create a job alert for instant notification of new roles that fit your search criteria