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What does a Dock Supervisor do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A dock supervisor is responsible for the coordination and supervision of all activities that take place on the dock. This includes the loading and unloading of ships, as well as the movement of cargo within the facility. The dock supervisor must ensure that all operations are conducted in a safe and efficient manner.

Dock Supervisor job duties include:

  • Schedule and coordinate the arrival and departure of ships.
  • Communicate with ship captains to determine arrival times and expected loads.
  • Coordinate the unloading and loading of ships with dock workers.
  • Inspect cargo to ensure that it is properly secured and does not pose a safety hazard.
  • Ensure that all dock workers are following safety procedures.
  • Maintain records of incoming and outgoing shipments.
  • Prepare reports on ship activity and cargo movements.
  • Investigate accidents or incidents that occur on the dock.
  • Ensure that the dock area is clean and free of debris.

Dock Supervisor Job Requirements

Dock supervisors typically have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some jobs may require certification, and most jobs will require at least some experience working in a warehouse or shipping environment. Dock supervisors must be able to effectively communicate with workers and customers, and must have strong organizational skills. They must be able to lift heavy objects and work in a fast-paced environment.

Dock Supervisor Skills

  • Communication
  • Leadership
  • Organization
  • Planning
  • Time Management
  • Problem Solving
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Negotiation
  • Customer Service
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Teamwork

Related: Top Dock Supervisor Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Dock Supervisor

In order to become a dock supervisor, one must have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. There are also on-the-job training programs available that can provide the necessary skills for the position. The duties of a dock supervisor include coordinating the activities of workers engaged in loading and unloading ships, trucks, and trains; inspecting cargo to ensure that it is properly secured; and keeping track of inventory. They also maintain records of outgoing and incoming shipments.

Related: Dock Supervisor Resume Example

Related: Dock Supervisor Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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