Product Return Center Operations Lead

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR 

We’re seeking a Product Return Center Operations Lead to manage the daily operations of our Product Return Center. This role is ideal for someone with strong leadership skills, operational expertise, and a passion for continuous improvement. If you’re experienced in managing teams, driving performance, and optimizing return and warranty processes, we want you on Team Slate. 

WHAT YOU GET TO DO 

• Manage the Product Return Center facility and personnel responsible for warranty claim validation and returned material inspection. 

• Oversee supplier return shipments and ensure accurate documentation and processing. 

• Adapt and execute business plans aligned with departmental strategies and functional priorities. 

• Provide direct on-site supervision for hourly and professional team members. 

• Define and maintain team operating standards and performance objectives. 

• Train and develop employees, conduct reviews, and recommend performance actions. 

• Act as an advisor to the Warranty Manager and assist with deadlines and issue resolution. 

• Control planning, staffing, budgeting, and expense priorities. 

• Recommend and implement changes to operational methods and policies. 

• Motivate, persuade, and collaborate with junior supervisors and peers. 

• Conduct presentations on projects, schedules, and performance metrics. 

• Exercise judgment within defined procedures and occasionally make decisions without clear precedent. 

• Ensure operational decisions do not cause delays or disruptions to work plans. 

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM 

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field. 

• 5+ years of experience in warehouse, logistics, or warranty operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role. 

• Proven ability to lead teams effectively, foster accountability, and drive performance in a dynamic operational environment. 

• Skilled in cultivating a collaborative team culture and inspiring high levels of engagement. 

• Experience mentoring team members and implementing development plans. 

• Strong understanding of business plans and departmental strategies. 

• Capable of managing competing priorities and maintaining focus on high-impact activities. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• Strong interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration and conflict resolution. 

• Ability to analyze operational data and apply critical thinking to solve problems. 

• Solid understanding of parts return processes, inventory systems, and department-specific tools and technologies. 

WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

At Slate, we’re fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

• Safety First

• Delight Customers

• One Team

• Relentless Improvement

• Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy

• Respectful Collaboration

• Positive Legacy

WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE.

Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.

Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at

[email protected].