Distribution Supervisor
The Outbound Supervisor is responsible for leading a team of DC associates to fulfill eCommerce orders accurately, efficiently, and on time — every single shift. This role owns the daily execution of the outbound workflow: ensuring orders are picked, packed, labeled, and shipped clean to carrier cutoffs without exception. The supervisor is a hands-on leader who sets the pace, drives accountability, solves problems in real time, and builds a team culture centered on quality, urgency, and pride in the work.
This is a first-line supervisory role and an important step in PBD's leadership pipeline. Success in this position means zero missed carrier cuts, clean outbound quality, and a motivated team that consistently meets productivity standards.
Core Responsibilities
Daily Shipping Execution — Ship Clean, Every Day
Own the daily ship plan: know the order count, volume mix, and carrier cutoff times before the shift begins
Ensure all orders are picked, packed, labeled, and staged to meet carrier pickup windows without exception
Monitor wave release progress throughout the shift and adjust staffing or priorities to stay on pace
Verify manifest accuracy and confirm all outbound shipments are scanned, closed, and staged correctly
Escalate and resolve any WMS issues (Deposco), label errors, or carrier routing discrepancies before they cause a missed cut
Confirm end-of-day shipment close-out: no open orders left in a shippable state without resolution
Team Leadership and Workforce Management
Supervise a team of DC associates in all outbound functions: pick, pack, QC, labeling, and shipping lanes
Assign associates to work areas and tasks at the start of each shift based on the daily order profile and volume
Maintain accurate attendance records; address tardiness, absences, and performance gaps in real time
Provide direct, timely feedback and coaching; document performance observations and escalate to management when appropriate
Motivate the team with clear communication about goals, priorities, and expectations every shift
Model the behavior and work ethic you expect from your team — lead from the floor
Quality Control and Order Accuracy
Enforce packing standards, client-specific routing guides, and order accuracy requirements across the team
Conduct random pack audits and spot checks throughout the shift to catch errors before orders ship
Ensure proper packaging materials, inserts, and labeling are used per client specifications
Identify root causes of quality errors (mis-picks, wrong labels, packaging failures) and implement corrective actions
Track and report quality metrics to management; participate in continuous improvement efforts
Productivity Monitoring and Reporting
Monitor hourly pick and pack rates against daily targets; identify team members who are off pace and intervene
Complete end-of-shift production reports including orders shipped, units processed, and any open issues
Track associate productivity and provide data to management for performance reviews
Identify bottlenecks in the workflow (slotting, equipment, staffing, WMS issues) and communicate solutions
Safety, Housekeeping, and Compliance
Enforce all safety rules, PPE requirements, and DC housekeeping standards in the “B” zone at all times
Ensure equipment (scanners, carts, packing stations) is in proper working condition; report maintenance needs immediately
Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area throughout the shift — not just at the end
Ensure team compliance with all PBD SOPs and client-specific operational procedures
Communication and Coordination
Communicate clearly with the Outbound Manager or General Manager at shift start, midday, and shift-end on volume progress and issues
Coordinate with receiving, inventory, and WMS teams to resolve order holds, inventory shortages, or pick path issues
Participate in shift handoffs to ensure open issues, priorities, and pending work are communicated to incoming supervisors
Flag client compliance risks (missed cuts, routing errors, packaging non-conformance) immediately to management
Qualifications
1+ year of experience in a warehouse, fulfillment, or distribution environment
Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate others, even informally (lead associate, trainer, team lead experience counts)
Strong sense of accountability — you follow through, meet deadlines, and own your results
Ability to read, communicate, and document clearly in a fast-paced environment
Comfortable working with warehouse technology: handheld scanners, WMS systems, basic computer functions
Physical ability to stand, walk, and work on the DC floor for the full duration of the shift
Preferred
Experience in eCommerce fulfillment operations (small parcel, carrier compliance, parcel manifesting)
Prior experience using Deposco WMS or similar warehouse management system
Familiarity with carrier routing requirements (UPS, FedEx, USPS, Amazon) and shipping deadlines
Experience tracking productivity metrics and communicating results to management
Associate or Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations, Logistics, or related field — or equivalent experience
Second Shift 2 PM – 10:30 PM; Sunday required