Assistant Manager, Container Depot Operations

Job Summary

The Assistant Operations Manager supports the daily operations of the container depot, ensuring efficient container handling, maintenance and repair (M&R), sales coordination, yard planning, equipment utilization, and compliance with QSSE (Quality, Safety, Security, and Environmental) standards. This role focuses on operational excellence, cost control, safety, and customer satisfaction while developing leadership and technical skills.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Depot Operations

• Assist in managing daily depot activities (gate-in/gate-out, stacking, loading, and dispatch).
• Monitor yard productivity and turnaround time.
• Coordinate with shipping lines, transporters, and customers.
• Ensure accurate container inventory and reporting in the depot system.
• Support space optimization and yard planning.

2. Container Maintenance & Repair (M&R)

• Supervise container inspection according to IICL standards.
• Coordinate repair activities (structural, flooring, door, CSC plate, painting).
• Monitor repair quality, cost, and turnaround time.
• Ensure proper documentation, estimates, and approval from principals.
• Control M&R budget and minimize unnecessary repair costs.

3. QSSE (Quality, Safety, Security & Environment)

• Enforce depot safety procedures and PPE compliance.
• Conduct toolbox meetings and safety briefings.
• Assist in incident/accident investigation and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, local authority, and company QSSE policies.
• Monitor environmental controls (waste disposal, oil spills, noise, emissions).
• Maintain proper signage, fire-fighting equipment, and emergency readiness.

4. Yard Planning & Control

• Plan container stacking strategy (by size, type, status, shipping line).
• Optimize yard layout to maximize capacity and equipment efficiency.
• Coordinate movement planning to reduce re-handling.
• Monitor yard congestion and implement corrective actions.

6. Equipment Management

• Monitor utilization of reach stackers, forklifts, and terminal tractors.
• Coordinate preventive maintenance with the workshop team.
• Track equipment downtime and fuel consumption.
• Ensure operators are licensed and follow safety procedures.

7. Reporting & Administration

• Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly operational reports.
• Track KPIs: lift-on/lift-off, repair TAT, yard occupancy, equipment uptime.
• Maintain accurate documentation for billing and audit purposes.
• Support cost control and budget monitoring.

8. Team Leadership

• Supervise yard staff, inspectors, and repair teams.
• Provide on-the-job training and performance feedback.
• Promote a safety-first and productivity-driven culture.
• Develop leadership skills for future Operations Manager role.

Job Requirements:

• Diploma or Degree in Logistics, Maritime, Mechanical, or a related
• 5-8 years in container depot, terminal, logistics, or shipping operations
• Knowledge of container M&R and yard planning is an advantage
• Strong operational coordination
• Basic technical knowledge of container structure and repair
• Understanding of QSSE practices
• Good communication with customers and internal teams
• Proficient in MS Excel and depot management systems
• Achieving and maintaining a depot turnaround time of 45 minutes in alignment with operational KPIs.
• Minimizing the number of complaints received from shippers through consistent service quality and operational efficiency.
• Managing and reducing staff turnover by maintaining a positive, stable, and productive work environment.