Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Fleet Supervisor

🎯 Role Definition

As our new Fleet Supervisor, you will be the operational cornerstone of our transportation division. You'll take the driver's seat in managing our company's fleet of vehicles and the dedicated team of drivers who operate them. This is a critical role that directly influences our operational efficiency, commitment to safety, and overall business success. We're looking for a proactive leader who can optimize performance, ensure unwavering compliance with all regulations, and cultivate a culture of safety and excellence within the team. If you're ready to make a tangible impact and steer our fleet operations towards a successful future, we encourage you to apply.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Fleet Coordinator / Dispatcher
Lead Driver / Senior Driver
Logistics Specialist

Advancement To:

Fleet Manager
Transportation Manager
Operations Manager

Lateral Moves:

Safety Manager
Logistics Analyst

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Supervise, mentor, and lead a team of drivers, including recruitment, onboarding, training, and performance management to foster a professional and motivated workforce.
Develop and manage driver schedules, dispatching, and routing to ensure optimal vehicle utilization and timely delivery of goods and services.
Oversee the entire lifecycle of fleet vehicles, from acquisition and upfitting to maintenance scheduling and compliant disposal.
Ensure strict adherence to all Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and other applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
Monitor and analyze fleet performance data using telematics and fleet management software to track metrics such as fuel consumption, mileage, idle time, and driver behavior.
Implement and manage a comprehensive preventative maintenance program to minimize downtime, reduce repair costs, and extend the life of all vehicles.
Coordinate and approve all vehicle repairs, manage relationships with external service vendors, and review invoices for accuracy and cost-effectiveness.
Conduct regular safety meetings, driver training sessions, and vehicle inspections to promote and enforce a strong safety-first culture.
Investigate, document, and report all vehicle accidents, incidents, and driver-related injuries, implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
Manage and maintain all fleet-related documentation, including vehicle registrations, insurance, permits, maintenance records, and driver qualification files.
Develop, monitor, and manage the fleet's operating budget, actively seeking opportunities for cost reduction in areas like fuel, maintenance, and tires.
Utilize routing software to plan and optimize driver routes for maximum efficiency, considering traffic, weather, and delivery windows.
Address and resolve driver concerns, conflicts, and performance issues in a timely and professional manner, providing coaching and disciplinary action as needed.
Prepare and present regular, detailed reports to senior management on key fleet performance indicators, operational challenges, and strategic recommendations.
Manage the procurement and inventory of necessary parts, supplies, and equipment required for fleet maintenance and operations.
Oversee the company's fuel card program, monitoring usage for compliance and identifying potential fraud or abuse.
Stay current with emerging transportation technologies, industry trends, and changes in regulations to ensure the fleet remains competitive and compliant.
Conduct driver ride-alongs and performance audits to provide direct feedback and ensure adherence to company policies and safety procedures.
Act as the primary point of contact for all fleet-related emergencies and operational disruptions, providing clear direction and effective solutions.
Collaborate with the safety department to develop, update, and implement fleet safety policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Manage electronic logging device (ELD) compliance, providing training and support to drivers to ensure accurate hours-of-service (HOS) recording.

Secondary Functions

Collaborate with other departments, such as warehouse and customer service, to ensure seamless coordination and operational alignment.
Assist in evaluating and recommending new technologies, such as advanced telematics systems or fleet management platforms, to drive continuous improvement.
Participate in incident response and emergency management planning as it relates to transportation and fleet assets.
Support the logistics team with special projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall supply chain.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Fleet Management Software: Proficiency with platforms such as Geotab, Samsara, Fleetio, or similar telematics and management systems.
Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, and state-level transportation laws and regulations.
Vehicle Maintenance Management: Strong knowledge of preventative maintenance programs, vehicle mechanics, and repair processes.
Data Analysis & Reporting: Ability to analyze fleet data and proficiency in MS Excel for creating reports, tracking KPIs, and managing budgets.
Route Planning & Optimization: Experience with routing software and logistics planning to maximize efficiency.
Budget Management: Proven ability to manage an operational budget, control costs, and perform financial analysis.
ELD/HOS Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of Electronic Logging Devices and Hours of Service regulations.

Soft Skills

Leadership & Supervision: Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and manage a diverse team of drivers and support staff.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with drivers, management, and vendors.
Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills to resolve operational issues and emergencies effectively.
Organizational Skills: Superior ability to multitask, prioritize workload, and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to record-keeping, compliance documentation, and safety procedures.
Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build positive relationships and handle conflict resolution with professionalism and empathy.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Logistics
Supply Chain Management
Business Administration

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-5 years of experience in fleet operations, transportation, or a related logistics field.

Preferred: 2+ years of direct experience in a supervisory or leadership capacity, managing drivers or fleet assets.