Orientation and Equipment Trainer

Nova Lines•Bridgeview, IL

21h

About The Position

The Orientation and Equipment Trainer provides operational and safety support for driver onboarding, retraining, and compliance. The role conducts and supports road tests, Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) training, load securement training, and Hours of Service (HOS) coaching for new and current drivers. As a subject-matter resource for flatbed load securement, the trainer helps drivers understand and apply company procedures and applicable Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements. The position works closely with Operations and Safety to ensure drivers are trained, evaluated, and prepared to perform their duties safely, and supports the Orientation team with driver arrivals, onboarding activities, and related operational needs. The role conducts road tests and PTI and load securement training and retraining; identifies deficiencies and provides coaching; documents activities; and communicates performance concerns. It provides load securement expertise, evaluates compliance, identifies unsafe practices, and reinforces best practices. It also assists with orientation logistics and driver flow, coaches drivers on HOS requirements, supports identification of recurring training needs, and escalates significant compliance concerns. The position requires a valid driver's license, working knowledge of FMCSA rules, in-depth knowledge of flatbed load securement, and the ability to evaluate and coach drivers, communicate effectively, work independently and as part of a team, and maintain accurate records. Work may involve office, training, yard, and outdoor operational activities, including working around commercial vehicles, conducting inspections, and demonstrating load securement practices. Employment is full-time, at-will, and offers an hourly salary range of $30–$33.

Requirements

Valid driver's license required.
In-depth knowledge of flatbed load securement regulations and practices.
Working knowledge of FMCSA rules and regulations.
Basic to intermediate computer skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with individuals at different experience levels and in a variety of situations.
Ability to conduct driver evaluations and provide constructive coaching.
Ability to work independently and effectively as part of the Operations and Safety team.
Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
Ability to work in an environment involving interaction with drivers, equipment, and operational personnel.
Ability to meet company safety and physical requirements associated with the position.

Nice To Haves

Previous commercial driving experience strongly preferred.
Previous flatbed driving or load securement experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct road tests for current drivers and new contractor applicants in accordance with company and safety requirements.
Conduct and support Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) training and retraining.
Conduct load securement training and retraining for drivers.
Identify deficiencies during road tests, PTI inspections, or load securement evaluations and provide appropriate coaching.
Document training, testing, coaching, and retraining activities accurately and promptly.
Communicate driver performance concerns to appropriate Operations and Safety personnel.
Serve as a subject-matter resource for flatbed load securement and train and coach drivers on proper procedures and company standards.
Ensure drivers understand applicable FMCSA load securement requirements and evaluate their compliance with procedures.
Identify unsafe practices and promptly communicate significant safety concerns to management.
Support the development and reinforcement of load securement best practices.
Assist the Orientation team with contractor road tests, PTI training, and load securement training as needed.
Support the Orientation Coordinator, Facilitator, and Trainer in preparing drivers for release to operations.
Assist with driver arrivals, orientation logistics, and the movement of drivers through onboarding and safety activities.
Provide a professional, customer-focused experience to new and current drivers.
Assist with HOS training and coach drivers on HOS requirements, company expectations, and safe operating practices.
Reinforce compliance with FMCSA regulations and company policies, and assist Safety personnel in identifying recurring HOS training needs or knowledge gaps.
Escalate significant compliance concerns to the Safety Coordinator or Operations & Safety Manager.
Maintain working knowledge of FMCSA rules and follow company safety policies, procedures, and training requirements.
Report safety concerns, incidents, or significant driver deficiencies to the appropriate manager.
Protect confidential driver and company information and participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to driver training, safety, orientation, and compliance.
Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Operations & Safety Manager.
Maintain professional relationships with drivers and Operations, Safety, and Orientation personnel, and adapt to changing priorities while maintaining safety and compliance standards.