Job Specification - Transportation Worker

🎯 Role Definition

The Transportation Worker is a hands-on professional entrusted with operating company vehicles to transport materials, products, or equipment to and from specified destinations. This role demands a high level of responsibility, unwavering adherence to safety protocols, and a deep commitment to operational excellence. Success in this position hinges on the ability to manage time effectively, maintain vehicle integrity, and ensure the security of all cargo, directly impacting our supply chain efficiency and customer satisfaction. This individual serves as a key representative of the company in the field, interacting directly with partners, clients, and the public.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer
Warehouse Associate
Driver Helper / Swamper

Advancement To:

Lead Transportation Worker / Senior Driver
Transportation Supervisor
Fleet Manager or Dispatcher

Lateral Moves:

Heavy Equipment Operator
Logistics Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Safely operate various classes of commercial and non-commercial vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, straight trucks, dump trucks, or cargo vans, to facilitate the transport of goods and materials across local and regional routes.
Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the vehicle in accordance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, meticulously checking tires, brakes, fluid levels, lights, and safety equipment.
Maintain accurate, complete, and timely driver logs and records, including hours of service (HOS) using Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs), fuel receipts, and trip reports to ensure full compliance with all federal and state laws.
Expertly load, unload, and secure diverse types of cargo, utilizing appropriate equipment like pallet jacks, forklifts, and dollies, and employing proper strapping, bracing, or padding techniques to prevent damage during transit.
Plan and follow designated routes using GPS and other navigation tools, while also applying knowledge of traffic patterns and road conditions to ensure the most efficient and timely delivery schedule is maintained.
Communicate effectively and professionally with dispatchers, supervisors, and warehouse personnel to coordinate pickup/delivery schedules, report delays, and receive instructions.
Provide exceptional customer service upon delivery, verifying order accuracy with customers, obtaining necessary signatures on bills of lading or delivery receipts, and addressing any immediate concerns.
Immediately report any vehicle defects, accidents, traffic violations, or property damage to management according to established company procedures.
Adhere strictly to all company safety policies, as well as all local, state, and federal transportation regulations, promoting a culture of safety at all times.
Perform routine minor maintenance on the assigned vehicle, including cleaning the interior and exterior, checking and replenishing fluids, and ensuring all equipment is in good working order.
Maneuver large vehicles in a variety of challenging environments, including tight loading docks, congested urban areas, construction sites, and adverse weather conditions.
Verify shipping documents and manifests against loaded cargo to ensure accuracy and completeness before departing from any facility.
Monitor vehicle performance and mechanical fitness while on duty, proactively identifying potential issues before they become major problems.
Assist in yard and warehouse operations during non-driving periods, including organizing materials, assisting with inventory, and maintaining a clean and orderly work environment.
Properly handle and document the transportation of specialized or hazardous materials, if certified, ensuring all placarding and handling requirements are met.
Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor, acting as a positive ambassador for the company when interacting with clients and the public.
Operate on-board communication systems or company-provided mobile devices to stay connected with the logistics team throughout the day.
Systematically check and secure all doors, tailgates, and hatches on the vehicle or trailer to protect cargo from theft, loss, or weather damage.
Participate in mandatory safety meetings, training sessions, and driver development programs to stay current on industry best practices and regulatory changes.
Manage all job-related paperwork efficiently, ensuring all necessary documents are completed accurately and submitted by the end of each shift.

Secondary Functions

Assist with annual or semi-annual physical inventory counts and contribute to overall warehouse organization during periods of lower transportation volume.
Act as a mentor or peer-trainer for new drivers, providing on-the-job guidance regarding company-specific routes, procedures, and customer expectations.
Provide practical, field-level feedback to the safety committee or management regarding potential hazards, inefficient processes, or suggestions for operational improvements.
Collaborate with the maintenance team to schedule preventative maintenance and repairs, ensuring minimal disruption to operational schedules.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Possession of a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL), typically Class A or B, with a clean and verifiable driving record.
In-depth, practical knowledge of Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, including Hours-of-Service (HOS) rules and vehicle inspection standards.
Proficiency in the operation of material handling equipment, such as electric/manual pallet jacks, sit-down forklifts, and hand trucks.
Experience utilizing Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and other in-cab technology for logging, communication, and navigation.
Ability to perform basic vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting, including checking fluid levels, tire pressure, and brake adjustments.
Skilled in reading maps and effectively using GPS navigation systems to plan and execute efficient, safe travel routes.
Competence in securing various types of cargo using chains, binders, straps, and tarps to prevent shifting or damage.

Soft Skills

An unwavering commitment to safety, demonstrated by a consistent and proactive adherence to all safety policies and procedures.
Excellent time management and organizational skills, with a proven ability to meet strict deadlines for pickups and deliveries.
Clear, professional, and courteous communication skills for effective interaction with dispatchers, customers, and fellow team members.
A high degree of reliability, punctuality, and personal accountability; someone the team can depend on.
Strong problem-solving abilities to independently and calmly manage unforeseen on-the-road challenges like traffic, detours, or equipment issues.
Exceptional situational and spatial awareness, especially when maneuvering large vehicles in confined or high-traffic areas.
A strong work ethic and the physical stamina to handle the demands of the job, including occasional heavy lifting, climbing, and long periods of sitting.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Certificate of completion from an accredited professional truck driving school or a vocational program in transportation.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Transportation & Logistics
Supply Chain Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5 years of verifiable commercial driving experience in a role with similar responsibilities.

Preferred: More than 5 years of experience in an industry-specific transportation role (e.g., construction materials, LTL freight, public works) with a consistent record of safety and on-time performance. Possession of endorsements such as Hazmat (H), Tanker (T), or Doubles/Triples (T) is highly advantageous.