Traffic Manager

Welch Packaging Group•Grand Rapids, MI

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The role of Group Traffic Manager is to improve the effectiveness of our Welch Transportation system. This position ensures full DOT compliance across all group locations, oversees fleet regulatory readiness, manages trailer fleet strategy, and administers tractor lease lifecycle management. Additionally, it involves overseeing the forklift lease program, driving outside freight cost reduction initiatives, monitoring and controlling fuel spend, analyzing fuel purchasing trends, managing and optimizing GPS and ELD systems, and providing ongoing transportation performance oversight.

Requirements

High School Diploma or Equivalent Required
3+ Prior experience in fleet management or similar role.
Ability to use email communication.
Good communication skills, organized, detail oriented, positive attitude, optimistic.
Strong written and oral communication.
Organization and attention to detail.
Analytical and problem-solving skills.
Time management.
Systems analysis.
Mathematical and deductive reasoning.
Critical thinking.

Responsibilities

Ensure full DOT compliance across all group locations, including proper management and retention of Driver Logs (6 months), DVIRs (3 months), trip reports (submitted to leasing company), and annual trailer inspections.
Oversee fleet regulatory readiness by keeping trailer DOT inspections current and audit-ready at all times.
Manage trailer fleet strategy, including sourcing and purchasing trailers to meet operational demand.
Administer tractor lease lifecycle management, including monitoring expirations, ordering replacements, securing additional units, and reallocating equipment across locations to optimize utilization.
Oversee forklift lease program, including renewals, replacements, and acquisition of new equipment as operational needs evolve.
Drive outside freight cost reduction initiatives by analyzing lane data, benchmarking carrier rates, and negotiating lower-cost alternatives for specific markets.
Monitor and control fuel spend across the group, identifying cost-reduction strategies and ensuring compliance with preferred vendor programs (e.g., Penske utilization where available).
Analyze fuel purchasing trends and secure lowest-cost fueling options in markets without preferred vendor access.
Manage and optimize GPS and ELD systems through Verizon Connect to ensure compliance, asset visibility, and operational efficiency.
Provide ongoing transportation performance oversight, leveraging data to improve cost control, equipment utilization, and fleet productivity across all locations.