Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Juice Transport Driver

🎯 Role Definition

We are actively seeking a dedicated and professional Juice Transport Driver to become an integral part of our logistics and supply chain team. In this pivotal role, you will be the frontline ambassador of our company, responsible for the safe, sanitary, and timely transportation of bulk liquid food products, primarily fruit juices and concentrates. This position requires more than just driving; it demands a meticulous approach to food safety protocols, expertise in handling specialized tanker equipment, and a commitment to exceptional customer service at both loading facilities and delivery points. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated individual with a pristine driving record and a deep understanding of the responsibilities that come with hauling perishable, food-grade products.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Freight CDL-A Driver
Recent CDL School Graduate with Tanker Endorsement
Local or Regional Dry Van / Reefer Driver

Advancement To:

Lead Driver / Senior Driver
Driver Trainer / Finisher
Fleet Manager or Supervisor
Dispatcher or Logistics Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

Chemical Tanker Driver (with additional training/endorsements)
Bulk Milk Hauler
Water or other Non-Hazardous Liquid Transport Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Safely operate a Class A commercial motor vehicle combination, primarily tractor-tanker configurations, over regional or long-haul routes to transport bulk liquid juice and other food-grade commodities.
Execute the loading and unloading of liquid products, expertly handling pumps, hoses, and various fittings while adhering to strict procedural and quality control standards.
Conduct comprehensive pre-trip and post-trip vehicle and tanker inspections in accordance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and company policy to ensure operational safety.
Meticulously maintain accurate and up-to-date records of driving hours, duty status, and mileage using an Electronic Logging Device (ELD) to ensure full compliance with HOS regulations.
Uphold and enforce stringent food safety, sanitation, and security protocols, including verification of tanker wash-out slips and proper sealing of all hatches and valves.
Monitor product integrity during transit, including maintaining specified temperature ranges for temperature-sensitive products and reporting any deviations immediately.
Communicate professionally and effectively with dispatch, logistics planners, and fleet managers regarding route changes, delays, delivery schedules, and any on-the-road issues.
Manage all shipping documentation, including Bills of Lading (BOLs), weight tickets, and delivery receipts, ensuring all paperwork is completed accurately and submitted in a timely manner.
Adhere to all federal, state, local, and company-specific traffic laws, safety regulations, and transportation procedures without exception.
Provide exceptional customer service during interactions at shipper and receiver facilities, representing the company with professionalism and courtesy.
Navigate diverse and challenging road conditions, including inclement weather, heavy traffic, and rural or urban environments, while maintaining a high level of safety.
Perform routine checks on all transport equipment, including pumps, hoses, and safety gear, reporting any defects or needs for repair promptly.
Ensure the proper placarding of the vehicle as required for the specific commodity being transported.
Follow precise customer-specific instructions for arrival times, loading/unloading procedures, and site navigation to ensure a smooth and efficient exchange.
Secure the vehicle and its cargo at all times, particularly during rest periods or layovers, to prevent theft, contamination, or tampering.

Secondary Functions

Maintain the cleanliness and professional appearance of the assigned tractor and trailer, both interior and exterior, reflecting company pride.
Actively participate in all mandatory safety meetings, training programs, and performance reviews to foster a culture of continuous improvement and safety.
Assist in providing constructive feedback to management on route efficiency, customer facility challenges, equipment performance, and potential safety improvements.
Support yard operations, such as positioning trailers for loading or maintenance, as needed when not assigned to an over-the-road dispatch.
Occasionally mentor or provide operational guidance to less-experienced drivers on company procedures and best practices for tanker operations.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A): A current, non-restricted license is mandatory.
Tanker (N) Endorsement: A required endorsement for legally hauling bulk liquid cargo.
ELD Proficiency: Demonstrable experience operating various Electronic Logging Devices (e.g., KeepTruckin, Omnitracs) for HOS tracking.
DOT Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of FMCSR and DOT regulations governing commercial vehicle operation, inspections, and safety.
Liquid Pumping & Handling: Proven ability to safely operate pumps, connect hoses, and manage the transfer of bulk liquids without spillage or contamination.
Pre/Post-Trip Inspection Expertise: The ability to conduct thorough, systematic inspections to identify and report potential mechanical or safety issues.
Basic Mechanical Aptitude: Competency to identify and troubleshoot minor mechanical issues on the road (e.g., lights, tires, fluid levels).

Soft Skills

Unwavering Attention to Detail: Critical for managing paperwork, verifying tank cleanliness, and following complex loading/unloading procedures.
Time Management & Punctuality: Excellent ability to manage driving hours and schedules to ensure on-time pickups and deliveries.
Independent Problem-Solving: Resourcefulness to handle unexpected on-the-road challenges such as detours, equipment malfunctions, or delays.
Clear & Professional Communication: Ability to articulate information clearly with dispatch, customers, and maintenance personnel.
High Degree of Safety Consciousness: A safety-first mindset that permeates every aspect of the job, from driving to cargo handling.
Strong Work Ethic & Self-Motivation: The drive to perform duties efficiently and responsibly without constant supervision.
Customer Service Orientation: A positive and professional demeanor when interacting with clients and representing the company.

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: 1-2 years of verifiable Class A tractor-trailer driving experience.

Preferred: 2+ years of recent, verifiable experience hauling bulk liquids in a tanker, with a strong preference for food-grade liquid transport (e.g., juice, milk, oils, sweeteners). A clean MVR and a solid safety record are required.