Returns Lead

Reports to: Warehouse Manager
Job Type: Full-time, on-site

Position Summary

The Returns Lead oversees daily operations involving returns, damaged products, used tires, drop shipments, and scrap. This hands-on leadership role manages the process from unloading through inventory adjustment while ensuring safety, accuracy, and efficiency. The Returns Lead supervises and coaches associates and works closely with clerks, putaway staff, inventory teams, vendors, and other departments.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct daily workloads and coordinate returns team activities.


• Ensure returns and related inventory are processed accurately and on time.


• Train and coach associates on procedures, equipment, and safety requirements.


• Monitor performance, provide feedback, and support employee evaluations.


• Maintain a safe, clean, organized, and productive work environment.


• Plan staffing, equipment, space, and resources based on expected volume.


• Ensure tools and equipment are inspected, maintained, and operational.


• Support recruiting, onboarding, retention, and compliance with company policies.


• Identify workflow bottlenecks and implement process improvements.


• Lead pre-shift meetings and coordinate smooth handoffs between shifts and departments.


• Communicate professionally with customers, vendors, and service providers.


• Track performance metrics, maintain inventory accuracy, and report results to leadership.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift or move items weighing up to 75 pounds.


• Regularly stand, walk, bend, and lift throughout the shift.


• Occasionally sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.


• Have sufficient vision for distance, depth, peripheral, and color recognition.