Driver Manager - 3rd Shift

Venture Transport•Cottage Grove, MN

About The Position

The Driver Manager is the primary liaison between the company and its professional drivers, supporting operational efficiency, driver satisfaction, compliance with company policy, and enterprise goals. The role oversees a fleet of drivers and manages performance, safety, and productivity in support of the company’s strategic objectives. This is a third-shift position scheduled Sunday through Friday, 11:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. The Driver Manager builds relationships with drivers, monitors performance, provides coaching and feedback, coordinates load assignments and routes, communicates operational issues, maintains records, and supports driver onboarding. The position requires dependable attendance and availability for on-call duties; weekend coverage plans may also be needed. The role operates in a fast-paced, high-volume office and field environment with frequent communication. Occasional travel to terminals, customer sites, or operational meetings may be required.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 1 year of experience in the transportation or logistics industry.
Ability to work and communicate effectively with others and promote a team environment.
Accept constructive criticism professionally and use it for continuous learning and skill improvement.
Communicate effectively with internal and external personnel at all organizational levels.
Strong listening skills; understand customer concerns, respond with thoughtful solutions, and handle criticism constructively.
Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced office and field environment.
Occasional travel to terminals, customer sites, or operational meetings.
Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
May need to climb into trucks or trailers for inspections or operational reviews.
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
On-call and/or after-hours availability may be required.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation, Business Administration, or a related field.
Experience managing drivers in a mid-to-large-scale trucking operation.
Knowledge of DOT/FMCSA regulations and safety protocols.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office products.
Knowledge of transportation, operations, and/or logistics industries.
Experience with TMW Office Suite and ELD systems.
Bilingual English/Spanish.

Responsibilities

Build strong, trust-based relationships with assigned drivers and understand their preferences, challenges, and career goals.
Monitor driver performance metrics, including revenue, weekly miles, MPG, on-time delivery, and safety compliance.
Coach and counsel drivers, provide performance feedback, and initiate disciplinary actions or terminations when necessary.
Ensure drivers have clear weekly plans and understand load assignments.
Maintain a positive and professional demeanor and foster a collaborative, inclusive work environment.
Handle sensitive information discreetly and uphold confidentiality standards.
Document employee interactions accurately and promptly in accordance with HR policy.
Collaborate with Planners, Customer Service Representatives, and Load Planners on load assignments and route optimization.
Communicate delays, detention issues, and potential service failures to internal stakeholders.
Monitor and update ETAs, driver statuses, and trip alerts in real time.
Ensure drivers comply with safety protocols and DOT regulations.
Partner with Safety and Maintenance to address equipment issues and promote safe driving practices.
Track and update driver documentation, including license expirations, medical cards, and training records.
Maintain accurate and timely records in TMW or other fleet management systems.
Conduct daily driver check-ins by 9:00 a.m. and, when needed, ensure weekend coverage plans are in place.
Support onboarding and orientation of new drivers and set clear expectations.
Maintain regular and reliable attendance and be available on call.
Perform additional duties as assigned and comply with company policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.