Warehouse Lead - Returnmates

About Sway

Sway (fka Returnmates) is a fast-growing, LA-based technology and logistics startup that enables consumers to return online purchases without leaving their home. Our mission is to make online shopping more enjoyable by providing a return experience that’s as seamless as the purchase. We combine technology and logistics to provide a white-glove service for consumers -- no more printing, boxes and tape! If you want to join an innovative team that is tackling an area of e-commerce that has been left out to dry, this is the place for you.

Sway (fka Returnmates) is venture-backed by top VCs in LA and NYC, and founders from Allbirds, Warby Parker, Harry’s and thredUP. Our team is made up of scrappy operators, engineers, and marketers from Uber, Lime and Amazon.

The Role

We are seeking a skilled and proactive part-time Warehouse Lead to oversee all aspects of our warehouse operations, including receiving, storage, and distribution activities. You will play a key role in ensuring our processes align with Sway's mission to provide seamless and efficient service to customers. In this role, you will be responsible for managing the team and the day-to-day functions of the warehouse, maintaining safety and regulatory standards, and working closely with our Operations Manager to optimize performance. As the company grows, you will have the opportunity to drive process improvements, lead cross-functional collaborations, and set the standard for operational excellence.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee all aspects of receiving, warehousing, and distribution operations, ensuring that processes align with Sway's mission to provide seamless and efficient service to customers.
• Continuously deepen your understanding of the logistics ecosystem, staying informed about industry trends, technologies, and best practices to drive innovation and improve operational efficiency.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between our logistics partners and carriers, facilitating effective communication to ensure seamless operations.
• Manage all aspects of receiving, warehousing, distribution, and third-party logistics (3PL) operations, ensuring that processes are executed efficiently and effectively.
• Oversee the existing warehouse layout to ensure optimal space utilization and workflow efficiency. Continuously assess and adjust processes as needed to enhance operational productivity and adapt to changing business needs.
• Develop, coordinate, and enforce optimal operational policies and procedures, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability within the warehouse team.
• Maintain strict adherence to all warehousing, handling, and shipping legislation requirements, ensuring that all operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Maintain rigorous standards for health, safety, hygiene, and security within the warehouse environment, conducting regular training and audits to promote a safe workplace.
• Work closely with the Operations Manager to analyze financial data and optimize the warehouse budget, identifying opportunities for cost reduction while maintaining service quality.
• Liaise effectively with drivers, warehouse staff, customer service teams, and transport companies to ensure smooth operations and promptly address any issues that arise.
• Assist in the recruitment, selection, orientation, coaching, and motivation of warehouse employees, creating a high-performing team that is dedicated to achieving operational excellence.
• Gather and assess feedback from team members and stakeholders to evaluate the quality of services provided, making necessary adjustments to enhance performance.
• Proactively identify and address package and driver issues as they arise, implementing solutions that minimize disruption and ensure timely deliveries.

Requirements

• Demonstrated work experience as a Warehouse Lead or similar role, with a track record of managing and optimizing warehouse operations.
• Strong understanding of warehouse management procedures, industry best practices, and compliance requirements.
• Proven ability to identify inefficiencies and successfully implement process improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance.
• Hands-on experience with warehouse management software and databases.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage, mentor, and develop staff to foster a high-performing team environment.
• Excellent decision-making skills and a strategic approach to problem-solving, with the ability to respond quickly to operational challenges.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly to team members and managers.
• A BS degree is preferred
• Ability to regularly lift and move boxes weighing up to 30 pounds, contributing to hands-on warehouse tasks.

Benefits

You'll be excited to join the team because we have:

• The opportunity to join the ground floor of a fast-paced startup!
• Training & development
• A fun and engaging work environment

The Sway Way:

Bring on the Storm: At Sway, we recognize that change is the only constant in the startup journey, and we embrace the challenges it brings. Every setback offers a new perspective, guiding us to innovate and grow as we navigate the twists and turns of our path.

Every Package Matters: We refuse to accept the imperfection that defines traditional logistics; every package and interaction counts. Our commitment to striving for perfection in every delivery and return sets us apart and fuels our success, creating the magic of Sway.

Trust your Numbers: Data forms the backbone of our decision-making process. While we consider both quantitative and qualitative insights, we prioritize data analysis to inform our strategies, ensuring that every initiative is backed by solid metrics before we act.

Seek Responsibility: We thrive on ownership, eagerly stepping up to take on tasks and projects. While we embrace the opportunity to lead, we acknowledge our mistakes, communicate transparently, and continuously build processes to prevent them from happening again.

Low Ego, High Ambition: Ego has no place in our culture; we promote constructive debate and collaboration to achieve the best outcomes. By fostering positive interactions and supporting each other, we embrace the challenge of our mission with kindness and enthusiasm, enjoying the journey together.

Job Type: Part-Time

Pay Rate: $19 Hourly