Shipping Team Lead

At UMC, we don’t just make products - we innovate, solve problems, and build a better future. As a proud, privately owned second-generation manufacturer, we’ve earned our reputation as leaders in our industry by producing highly complex parts with precision and ingenuity. What sets us apart? Our people. We’re a passionate team that values collaboration, continuous learning, and going above and beyond. If this sounds like your kind of workplace, keep reading!

Why UMC?

Generous PTO: Start with 3 weeks of paid time off per year, with accrual from day one.

Competitive Pay: Attractive base salary for day shift roles, with opportunities for growth.

Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, and paid holidays.

401k Match: Dollar-for-dollar matching up to 5%.

Professional Growth: Tuition reimbursement for professional development.

Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, onsite in Monticello, MN.

About the Role

The Shipping Team Lead will direct day-to-day work assignments and priorities for Senior Shipping Specialists and Shipping Specialists. This role coordinates workflow, training, and continuous improvement efforts across the shipping team. This person may also transport product to and from customers and vendors using a company provided vehicle.

What You'll Do:

The primary duties and responsibilities of the Shipping Team Lead consist of but are not limited to:

Process Shipments

• Package customer and subcontract orders to protect against damage during shipping.
• Prepare shipping documentation and package parts per customer specific requirements.
• Arrange for transportation of outgoing customer sales orders, subcontract orders and miscellaneous orders. 
• Inputs data into ERP system and ensures package and carton labeling are correct.
• Inputs data into customer portals as required.
• Process and prepare international shipments as needed. 

Receiving Shipments

• Receive products and supplies with ERP system according to customer / engineering requirements.
• Ensure receiving paperwork is correct and complete from supplier.
• Arrange for internal delivery of incoming products and supplies.
• Unload freight using proper equipment i.e. forklift, fork truck, or two-wheeler.

Inventory

• Provide accurate counts during cycle counting and part packaging.
• Monitor physical inventory for any discrepancy verses ERP system.
• Maintain finished goods and supply warehouse organization.

Team Direction & Coordination

• Direct day-to-day work assignments and priorities for Senior Shipping Specialists and Shipping Specialists.
• Review end-of-month shipments and overall workload; identify and help alleviate bottlenecks for the team.
• Complete prep work in advance of end-of-month and other high-volume shipping periods.
• Coordinate shipping activities and priorities during end-of-month crunch periods.
• Field questions from sales and other staff, particularly during end-of-month periods, to keep orders moving.
• Evaluate pack hours for specialty processes (e.g., autobagger, vacuum sealing) to inform staffing and process decisions.
• Lead customer portal training and development for shipping personnel.
• Escalate performance, attendance, or personnel concerns to the Manager of Supply Chain 
• Lead continuous improvement projects and processes.
• Mentor and train shipping personnel as needed.  
• Assist as a back-up delivery driver using a commercial vehicle (occasionally).
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 5+ years’ experience in shipping and receiving in a manufacturing environment.
• Previous ERP systems experience preferred.
• Forklift experience required.
• Clean driving record required.

Competencies

• Ability to express ideas, share information, listen actively, and demonstrate professionalism in written and verbal communications.
• Ability to read and comprehend basic operating instructions.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Able to make effective and timely decisions.
• Promotes a sense of urgency to expedite work through area.
• Ensure all internal and external customers receive positive service experiences.
• Strong ability to focus on a single task for a long period of time.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Able to work efficiently with minimal supervision.
• Very strong organizational skills and the ability to handle and prioritize multiple tasks while meeting deadlines.
• Familiarity with quality management software and ERP systems (Epicor or other) is preferred.
• Proficient in various computer software applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Embodies the personal commitment to the shared core values of UMC: Great People, Going Beyond, and Growing.

Physical Requirements

• Stand and/or walk frequently during a workday (between 6-8 hours).
• Frequent use of hands and upper extremities in fine and gross manipulation using various wrist positions and grip/pinch spans to operate equipment, push buttons, carry boxes, push carts, etc.
• Dexterity with computers - the ability to type and use a mouse
• Frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.