Pilot Car Pickup Operator

Argee Transport Company•Des Moines, IA

About The Position

The Pilot Car Pickup Operator is responsible for safely escorting oversized and overweight loads across public roadways and job sites. This role plays a critical part in route planning, hazard identification, and maintaining consistent communication with CDL drivers to ensure loads are transported safely and in full compliance with all federal, state, and company regulations. This is an over-the-road (OTR) position requiring extended travel, typically ranging from 5 days up to 3 weeks at a time, depending on project assignments.

Requirements

Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain required state escort certifications (CDL not required).
Working knowledge of DOT regulations, OSHA standards, and multi-state escort requirements.
Strong communication skills with the ability to coordinate clearly and professionally with CDL drivers, customers, and operations staff.
High level of situational awareness, sound judgment, and commitment to safety in changing road and weather conditions.
Ability to read permits and follow detailed written and verbal instructions accurately.
Willingness and flexibility to travel extensively (1–3 weeks at a time), including weekends as required.
Valid driver’s license required (CDL not required).
Willingness to travel extensively, typically 1–3 weeks at a time, including weekends as needed.
Must pass post-offer employment drug screen, background check, physical, and motor vehicle record (MVR) review.
Must obtain and maintain required state escort certifications.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and road conditions.

Responsibilities

Plan and inspect routes ahead of transport to ensure safe passage for oversized loads, making adjustments as needed to comply with state permits and road conditions.
Safely operate a pilot pickup vehicle to escort heavy haul trucks on highways and construction sites while maintaining strict compliance with DOT, OSHA, and company safety standards.
Maintain clear, constant communication with CDL drivers regarding traffic patterns, hazards, low clearances, construction zones, and changing road or weather conditions.
Assist drivers in verifying and securing loads prior to transport to ensure compliance with load safety requirements.
Complete and submit required paperwork including delivery documentation, route reports, and daily logs while maintaining a clean and properly functioning escort vehicle.
Obtain and maintain required state escort certifications, participate in defensive driving and safety training, and represent Argee Transport professionally at all times.