Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Fuel Delivery Driver

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a highly motivated and safety-conscious Fuel Delivery Driver to join our logistics team. In this critical role, you are the frontline representative of our company, responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient transportation and delivery of bulk petroleum products to a diverse range of commercial, industrial, and retail clients. This position requires not just exceptional driving skills, but also a high degree of professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to federal and company safety protocols. As a Fuel Delivery Driver, you will manage complex logistics, operate specialized equipment, and ensure customer satisfaction through precise and courteous service, playing a vital part in keeping our communities and businesses running.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Certified CDL School Graduate
General Freight or LTL Truck Driver
Local or Regional Delivery Driver

Advancement To:

Lead Driver or Driver Trainer
Fleet Supervisor or Terminal Manager
Dispatcher or Logistics Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

Hazmat Transport Specialist
Chemical Hauler
Bulk Liquid Transport Driver

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Safely operate a Class A or B commercial vehicle (tractor-trailer or straight truck) to transport and deliver bulk petroleum products like gasoline, diesel, and heating oil.
Execute the loading of fuel products onto the tanker truck from various supply terminals, ensuring correct product types and quantities are loaded without cross-contamination.
Conduct secure and precise unloading of fuel into customer storage tanks (underground and above-ground), utilizing proper hose connections, grounding procedures, and overfill protection measures.
Perform comprehensive pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections in strict accordance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations to ensure the truck and all equipment are in safe, working order.
Meticulously maintain accurate electronic (ELD) or paper driver logs to record driving hours, duty status, and compliance with Hours of Service (HOS) regulations.
Adhere to all federal, state, local, and company regulations governing the transportation of hazardous materials, including proper placarding and handling of shipping documents.
Navigate assigned routes efficiently using maps or GPS technology, adapting to traffic, construction, and weather conditions to ensure on-time deliveries.
Manage and monitor product levels within the tanker during transit and delivery to maintain accurate inventory control and prevent shortages or overages.
Physically gauge customer tanks before and after delivery to accurately determine the quantity of fuel delivered and record the information on delivery tickets.
Operate onboard computer systems, handheld devices, and meters to process delivery information, print receipts, and transmit data back to the dispatch office.
Maintain constant communication with dispatch to report progress, receive new assignments, and communicate any delays, incidents, or on-site issues.
Uphold the highest standards of safety at all times, including wearing required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and following site-specific safety plans at customer locations.
Respond appropriately to any emergencies, such as spills or vehicle malfunctions, by following established emergency protocols and notifying relevant parties immediately.

Secondary Functions

Cultivate and maintain positive, professional relationships with customers, providing exceptional service and addressing any on-site questions or concerns.
Complete all required delivery paperwork, including bills of lading, delivery tickets, and inspection reports, ensuring they are accurate, legible, and submitted in a timely manner.
Perform light, routine maintenance on the vehicle, such as checking fluid levels, tire pressure, and ensuring the cleanliness of the cab and exterior of the truck.
Report any vehicle defects, maintenance needs, or safety concerns promptly to the fleet maintenance department through the proper channels.
Maintain the security of the vehicle, cargo, and associated equipment at all times, both on the road and at loading/unloading sites.
Proactively participate in mandatory safety meetings, training sessions, and performance reviews to stay current on regulations and company best practices.
Assist in orienting and training new drivers by sharing knowledge of routes, procedures, and safe operating practices as requested by management.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Current Hazmat (H) and Tanker (N) endorsements (or a combined X endorsement).
A clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) with a demonstrated history of safe driving.
Ability to successfully pass a DOT physical, drug screen, and background check.
Proficient in operating commercial vehicles with manual and/or automatic transmissions.
Deep understanding of DOT, FMCSA, and EPA regulations for hazardous materials transport.
Experience with Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and onboard fleet management technology.
Basic mathematical skills for calculating delivery volumes and completing paperwork.

Soft Skills

Unwavering commitment to safety protocols and procedural compliance.
Excellent time management, route planning, and organizational abilities to meet tight delivery schedules.
Strong problem-solving skills to independently handle unforeseen issues like traffic, equipment failure, or customer site challenges.
High level of professionalism and strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining a strong sense of responsibility and accountability.
Meticulous attention to detail for accurate record-keeping and handling of hazardous materials.
Physical stamina to handle heavy hoses, climb on and off the truck, and work in various weather conditions.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Certificate of completion from an accredited professional truck driving school.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Commercial Vehicle Operation
Logistics and Supply Chain

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

A minimum of 1-2 years of verifiable, recent commercial driving experience.

Preferred:

2+ years of experience specifically in hauling bulk liquids, petroleum, or other hazardous materials. A proven track record with no major preventable accidents or moving violations is highly desired.