Distribution Center (DC) Team Lead Job Listing at Academy Sports + Outdoors in Cookeville, TN (Job ID R331662)

Description

Who We Are

At Academy Sports + Outdoors our vision is to be the best sports + outdoors retailer in the country — but what truly sets us apart is our people. We're a passionate, purpose-driven team that's as committed to each other as we are to our customers.

We've spent over 80 years building a culture that puts people first. We believe in creating opportunities for growth, fostering meaningful connections, and supporting every Team Member's journey. What fuels us? Our belief in the power of fun.

Here, you won't just help customers gear up for their next adventure — you'll launch one of your own. Whether you're starting out or leveling up, Academy is a place where fun can't lose!  

Our Distribution Center Team Members are the all‑stars who keep the game moving, making sure that our products get to our nationwide customers. Our Distribution Center Team Members are the backbone of getting great products into the hands of our customers.

Every day, you help keep operations moving, accurately receiving, sorting, and shipping merchandise that fuels the store experience. You bring a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and teamwork to a fast-paced, high-energy environment where safety and efficiency come first. Whether you're mastering equipment, optimizing workflows, or ensuring every order is handled with care, you play a key role in connecting customers to the sports and outdoor gear they love.

In this role, you guide daily operations that keep the distribution center running smoothly and efficiently. Your leadership helps ensure products are received, handled, and shipped accurately, directly supporting the company's ability to meet customer expectations and business goals.

Throughout the day, you oversee workflows across receiving, storage, and shipping while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality, and productivity. You coach team members, adjust priorities in real time, and resolve operational challenges to keep everything moving forward in a fast-paced environment.

You work closely with distribution center team members, providing hands-on support, coaching, and development throughout each shift. Building trust and maintaining clear communication are essential to keeping your team aligned and productive.

You also collaborate with cross-functional partners across the distribution center to ensure consistent product flow and quickly address any operational issues. Your ability to connect teams and coordinate efforts helps drive overall efficiency.

Bring your energy, your ideas, and your love for sports and the outdoors.

• High school diploma or G.E.D. required

• At least 1 year of related work experience

• Minimum 6 months of supervisory experience preferred

• Knowledge of distribution functions and production standards preferred

• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office including Excel and warehouse systems

• Strong communication skills across listening, speaking, and writing

• Ability to collaborate effectively with operations teams

• Ability to work flexible hours, including varied or extra shifts to support business and peak season demands

• Maintain a safe work environment by following company policies and reporting unsafe conditions

• Ability to work in fast-paced, production-driven environment with performance expectations

• Work in non-climate-controlled conditions, including moderate heat/cold, dust, moisture, noise, and changing air quality

• Ability to stand, walk, and remain in positions for extended periods

• Perform physical activities such as bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, climbing, and working at heights

• Ability to work in mezzanines up to 50 ft high

• Frequently lift and carry up to 60 lbs; push/pull heavy items as needed

• Use manual dexterity and perform repetitive hand/keyboard tasks

• Demonstrate visual acuity (close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and focus adjustment)

• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed (e.g., safety shoes, glasses, vest, gloves, bump cap)

• Follow all company procedures, policies, and professional standards, including seasonal updates

• Successfully complete required background check and substance screening

• For applicable roles: safely handle firearms and complete required training

• For applicable roles: operate powered industrial trucks with required certification

Operations, Team Building and Leadership, Analytical Skills, Safety (EHS), Microsoft Office, Forklift Operator

Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate with regard to employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by law.​