Driver Trainee (Dock)

Estes Express Lines•Waterloo, IA

9d•$28 - $30

About The Position

The Driver Trainee (Dock) safely handles and maneuvers tractors, trailers, and other large equipment in the yard to support loading and unloading. The role also works on the dock for at least five hours per week, in addition to yard work as a jockey/hostler. The employee must follow safe operating procedures, accurately handle and document freight, inspect equipment, and report safety concerns and maintenance issues. Regular attendance is required, and other duties may be assigned as operational, safety, or other needs require. The role is part of a driver trainee program. Upon selection, the employee must enroll in the next available Estes-sponsored driving school for the region, obtain a CDL learner’s permit when notified, and meet applicable FMCSA requirements. Once approved by Safety as a qualified driver, the employee must reside within 75 miles of the domiciled Service Center and/or work assignment.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to handle the duties assigned for the driver trainee program.
Must be at least 21 years old, as required by FMCSA regulations.
Outstanding performance record with Estes; this should not include a final written warning within the previous 90 days or a pattern or progression of continued disciplinary action.
Must have and maintain an acceptable motor vehicle record; disqualifying offenses may include DUI, DWI, possession of narcotics or controlled substances, and reckless driving.
Valid driver’s license and willingness to obtain a CDL learner’s permit when notified of acceptance to driving school.
Registration with the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse once selected for driving school.
Once approved by Safety as a qualified driver, residence within 75 miles of the domiciled Service Center and/or work assignment.
Must meet the minimum physical qualifications for a driver position and pass an FMCSA physical before driving school.
Ability to operate a forklift with a minimum 7,500-pound capacity.
Ability to push or pull a loaded pallet jack and/or hand truck with a minimum load of 70 pounds.
Ability to lift approximately 70 pounds or more when required by the essential functions of the job.
Familiarity with state motor vehicle laws and FMCSA rules and regulations.
Ability to meet FMCSA requirements for speaking and reading English.
Ability to comply with company policies, rules, procedures, and Code of Conduct.
Ability to interact well with others and work independently or as part of a team.
Ability to work under tight time constraints in a high-volume environment with multiple priorities.
Ability to respond to questions and read, interpret, and comply with written information and documents, including safety rules, operations and procedure manuals, and maintenance instructions, with strong comprehension and concentration and the ability to meet deadlines.
Must pass an FMCSA pre-employment drug screen before driving school and a pre-employment drug screen; subject to random drug and/or alcohol testing and a criminal history background check.
Must agree to the driving school agreement.
Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

Safely handle and maneuver tractors, trailers, and other large equipment in the yard to facilitate loading and unloading.
Cube, load, and unload freight using a forklift, pallet jack, hand truck, or by hand.
Strap, brace, and secure freight to prevent damage or shifting.
Accurately record the condition of freight when it arrives at the service center.
Perform pre-shift and post-shift inspections of yard and dock equipment.
Safely set up, break down, and hook trailers.
Ensure pup-trailer tilt bars are lowered before loading freight.
Raise and lower landing gear.
Monitor the yard for unsafe drivers and non-employees and report concerns to management.
Work in outdoor weather conditions.
Promptly report maintenance problems to Fleet Services and/or supervision.
Work on the dock at least five hours per week in addition to yard work as a jockey/hostler.
Scan the Kronos clock and record dock versus jockey time for tracking.
Maintain regular attendance and perform other duties as assigned.
Enroll in the next available Estes-sponsored driving school for the respective region after selection.
Obtain a CDL learner’s permit when notified of acceptance to driving school.