Yard Operations Manager

APM Terminals

Job Description Summary
APM Terminals is a key part of the A.P. Moller–Maersk Group, enabling global trade by operating some of the world’s most advanced ports and terminals. APM Terminals Elizabeth is one of the most strategically important terminals in North America and a centerpiece of APM Terminals’ and Maersk’s long‑term growth strategy. Located at the heart of the Port of New York and New Jersey, the terminal plays a critical role in supporting global trade across the U.S. East Coast.

Today, Terminal Elizabeth is undergoing a significant transformation and multi‑year modernization effort—one of the largest and most complex operational projects in the APM Terminals network. This includes major investments in infrastructure, systems, equipment, operating models, and workforce capability, all aimed at creating a safer, more resilient, and higher‑performing terminal.

Appetizer

At APM Terminals, a global leader in port and terminal operations, we enable global trade and drive sustainable growth. What drives us forward is a mindset of always improving — observing how work happens, identifying what creates value, and removing what gets in the way. We constantly look for smarter, simpler, and safer ways of operating. If you thrive in environments where people value learning and are committed to continuously improve daily operations, join us and be apart of our journey.

What We Can Offer

At APMT Terminals, we foster a dynamic learning and training culture that empowers our employees to excel. Our commitment to improvement is driven by Lean principles, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to develop their skills and advance their careers. Experience a diverse, multinational workplace where your operational insights directly influence how we work.

• Exposure to complex, high‑volume terminal operations where operational decisions directly impact safety, service, and productivity

• Opportunities to develop leadership capability through hands‑on operational ownership and structured training programs

• A collaborative environment that values problem‑solving, continuous learning, and shared accountability

• Support for professional growth through global and regional learning programs aligned to terminal operations leadership

Key Responsibilities

As a Manager of Yard Operations, you will be accountable for the safe, efficient, and high‑quality execution of all yard activities. You will work closely with operations, labor, and strategy partners to deliver daily results while driving continuous improvement.

• Lead all yard container handling activities, including OTR deliveries and pick‑ups, heavy lift operations, empty dispatch and returns, and internal yard grooming

• Set daily operational priorities with a focus on safety, productivity, cost control, and effective utilization of equipment and labor

• Monitor and manage yard performance related to safety, production, security, and operational efficiency

• Own end‑to‑end yard execution to maximize productivity while coordinating effectively with vessel and intermodal operations

• Ensure yard integrity through ongoing space utilization analysis in collaboration with strategy and optimization teams

• Maintain compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and safety standards while providing clear direction to frontline teams

• Build strong working relationships with internal stakeholders, customers, steamship lines, vendors, and labor partners

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for a leader who brings operational discipline, a safety‑first mindset, and the ability to drive daily execution in a complex terminal environment.

• Continuous improvement mindset: we are looking for someone who brings a strong mindset of continuous improvement – someone who is naturally curious, committed to solving problems at the root, and driven to make things better every day

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or equivalent terminal operations experience with a minimum of five years in a yard or container operations environment

• Demonstrated experience leading frontline operations with accountability for safety, labor utilization, and equipment performance

• Ability to work effectively within a unionized environment, including adherence to collective bargaining agreements and participation in grievance processes when required

• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work across functional teams and adapt quickly in a dynamic operating environment

You should be comfortable working variable shifts, including nights an