Torchora
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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Route Manager

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

LogisticsSupply ChainOperations ManagementTransportation

🎯 Role Definition

As a Route Manager, you are the operational cornerstone of our delivery and service network. You will be responsible for the end-to-end management of all routing activities, from strategic planning to real-time execution. This hands-on leadership role involves directing a team of drivers, ensuring the highest standards of safety and compliance, and continuously seeking opportunities to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. You will act as the critical link between our drivers, our customers, and our internal operations, ensuring that our products and services are delivered reliably and professionally every day.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Dispatch Supervisor
  • Logistics Coordinator
  • Lead Driver / Driver Supervisor
  • Operations Supervisor

Advancement To:

  • Operations Manager
  • Logistics Director / Senior Manager of Logistics
  • District or Regional Transportation Manager
  • General Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Fleet Manager
  • Warehouse Manager
  • Supply Chain Analyst

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Directly supervise, train, and mentor a team of delivery drivers, conducting regular performance evaluations, ride-alongs, and coaching sessions to ensure adherence to safety protocols and customer service standards.
  • Utilize route planning software and logistical expertise to design, implement, and continuously optimize daily and weekly delivery routes to maximize efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and meet customer delivery windows.
  • Champion a culture of safety by enforcing all Department of Transportation (DOT), FMCSA, OSHA, and company safety regulations, conducting regular safety meetings, and investigating accidents to implement corrective action plans.
  • Oversee the daily operational status and maintenance schedule of the vehicle fleet, coordinating with mechanics and vendors to ensure all trucks are compliant, safe, and in good working order to prevent downtime.
  • Manage driver schedules, approve time-off requests, and ensure adequate staffing levels to cover all routes, including contingency planning for call-outs and volume surges.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for drivers on the road, providing guidance on route changes, traffic issues, and customer-site challenges to ensure successful deliveries.
  • Monitor real-time driver performance and route progress using GPS tracking and telematics systems, proactively addressing deviations from the plan.
  • Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections and ensure drivers are accurately completing all required paperwork, including Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) and electronic logs.
  • Manage and reconcile route-related documentation, such as delivery manifests, proof of delivery receipts, and fuel records, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
  • Address and resolve customer complaints or service issues related to deliveries in a timely and professional manner, working to recover service and maintain customer loyalty.
  • Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time performance, cost-per-delivery, items-per-hour, and miles-per-gallon to identify trends and drive operational improvements.
  • Control operational costs by managing driver overtime, minimizing fuel expenses, and optimizing resource allocation without compromising service quality.
  • Lead the recruitment, interviewing, and onboarding process for new drivers, ensuring they are properly trained and equipped for success.
  • Ensure all drivers maintain proper licensing and medical certifications as required by law and company policy.
  • Develop and maintain positive working relationships with all drivers, fostering a collaborative and respectful team environment.
  • Coordinate with warehouse and inventory teams to ensure accurate order picking and truck loading, minimizing errors and delays.
  • Handle all aspects of accident investigation, including documentation, reporting, and follow-up, in accordance with company and regulatory procedures.
  • Implement new technologies and processes aimed at improving routing efficiency, driver communication, and overall logistics performance.
  • Prepare and present regular operational reports to senior management, highlighting performance metrics, challenges, and strategic initiatives.
  • Conduct regular site visits and customer check-ins to gather feedback and ensure service levels are meeting or exceeding expectations.
  • Manage the procurement of supplies necessary for drivers and vehicles, including fuel cards, uniforms, and safety equipment.

Secondary Functions

  • Generate and analyze ad-hoc reports on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time performance, cost-per-delivery, and asset utilization to support strategic decision-making.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of logistics technology and processes by providing user feedback on routing software and transportation management systems (TMS).
  • Collaborate closely with Sales, Customer Service, and Warehouse teams to resolve delivery issues, accommodate special requests, and ensure a seamless end-to-end customer experience.
  • Participate in daily operational huddles and weekly planning meetings to align routing activities with broader warehouse and business objectives.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Route Planning Software: Proficiency with routing tools such as Roadnet, Appian, Samsara, or similar logistics platforms.
  • Transportation Management Systems (TMS): Experience operating and extracting data from a TMS.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of DOT, FMCSA, and OSHA regulations governing commercial vehicle operations.
  • Fleet Management: Knowledge of vehicle maintenance cycles, scheduling, and basic mechanical principles.
  • GPS & Telematics: Skilled in using telematics systems for vehicle tracking, performance monitoring, and electronic logging (ELDs).
  • Data Analysis: Ability to use Microsoft Excel or other tools to analyze performance data, create reports, and identify trends.
  • Inventory & Warehouse Systems: Familiarity with WMS/IMS to coordinate with warehouse operations.

Soft Skills

  • Leadership & Team Management: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a diverse team of drivers.
  • Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: Exceptional ability to think on your feet and resolve complex logistical challenges under pressure.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with drivers, customers, and management.
  • Customer Service Orientation: A strong commitment to providing outstanding service and resolving customer issues effectively.
  • Time Management & Organization: Superior organizational skills to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Conflict Resolution: Adept at de-escalating conflicts and finding mutually agreeable solutions.

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 or Management
  • Operations Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-5 years of progressive experience in transportation, distribution, or logistics, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role managing drivers or dispatchers.

Preferred:

  • Experience managing in a unionized or non-union driver environment.
  • A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is highly desirable but not always required.
  • Direct experience with last-mile delivery, LTL, or dedicated fleet operations.
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