Job Title: Shipping Manager
Location: Northern New Jersey (On-site)
Industry: Aerospace / Defense Manufacturing
Position Overview:
A well-established precision manufacturer in the aerospace and defense sector is seeking a Shipping Manager to be responsible for the overall management and performance of the shipping department, ensuring on-time delivery, accuracy, and compliance with the company’s Quality Management System (QMS). This role oversees both domestic and international shipments, maintains accurate finished-goods inventory, and collaborates closely with internal teams to support customer satisfaction and company goals.
Key Responsibilities:
Operational Management
- Oversee daily operations of the shipping department to ensure on-time delivery and adherence to internal procedures and QMS requirements.
- Plan, prioritize, and coordinate workload, including effectively managing increased shipping demand at month-end to meet company shipping and revenue targets.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized shipping area aligned with lean manufacturing principles.
Documentation & Compliance
- Prepare all required documentation for domestic and international shipments, including certifications, reports, and packing slips.
- Generate product Certificates of Conformance (CofC) for all products based on traceability data from the foundry (e.g., Melt #, Heat #, hardness results, tensile results, serial numbers, etc.).
- Review and verify all required certifications and inspection reports prior to shipment (including, but not limited to: FPI, X-ray, DIP, chem-film, anodize, paint, pressure test, HIP).
- Generate labels, bills of lading (BOL), shipper’s letters of instruction (SLI), and commercial invoices to route packages correctly and efficiently.
Systems, Inventory & Data Management
- Utilize the ERP system (Epicor Software) and other advanced computer tools to manage inventory levels, shipments, and customer orders.
- Maintain an accurate, up-to-date finished-goods inventory list to support efficient and organized shipping operations.
- Monitor shipment status and resolve any issues that arise during the shipping process, including carrier or documentation challenges.
Cross-Functional Collaboration & Customer Service
- Partner closely with the sales team to understand customer delivery requirements, priorities, and special instructions.
- Advise sales and billing departments of transportation charges for customer accounts and assist with resolving discrepancies.
- Respond promptly and professionally to customer inquiries via email, including providing tracking information and shipment status updates.
- Coordinate with production, quality, and logistics teams to ensure timely availability and release of product for shipment.
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve shipping processes, reduce errors, and shorten lead times.
- Support and participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to logistics, inventory accuracy, and customer delivery performance.
Qualifications:
- Experience in shipping, logistics, or distribution
- Experience in a manufacturing environment; aerospace, defense or other highly regulated industries strongly preferred.
- Strong working knowledge of domestic and international shipping requirements, documentation, and carriers.
- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems; experience with Epicor Software is a strong plus.
- Solid computer skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and manage quality and inspection documentation (e.g., CofCs, test reports, special process certifications).
- Proven ability to manage high-volume periods (especially month-end) while maintaining accuracy and quality.
- Strong communication, organizational, and time-management skills.
- High attention to detail and commitment to compliance and traceability.
Benefits:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development opportunities
