Job Summary
- To safely and efficiently operate heavy-duty trucks to transport goods and materials over long distances or within local areas, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to all traffic laws and safety regulations.
Key Accountabilities
- Vehicle Operation (Heavy Truck): Operate heavy-duty trucks (e.g., tractor-trailers, semi-trucks, articulated trucks, tankers, dump trucks depending on Wared’s fleet) in a safe and professional manner, adhering to all traffic laws, regulations, and company policies.
- Cargo Securement (General): Properly secure cargo within or on the truck using appropriate methods and equipment, such as straps, chains, load bars, tarps, and other specialized securing devices, ensuring safe transport and preventing damage to the cargo and the vehicle.
- Loading & Unloading (General): Assist with loading and unloading cargo using appropriate equipment, such as forklifts, pallet jacks, cranes, or manual labor, as needed. This may involve operating loading/unloading equipment (with proper training and certification).
- Pre-Trip & Post-Trip Inspections: Conduct thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the truck and cargo to ensure roadworthiness, identify any potential problems, and complete required inspection reports (including DVIRs - Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports).
- Route Planning & Navigation: Plan efficient routes and navigate to delivery destinations using maps, GPS devices, telematics systems, or other navigation tools, considering traffic, road conditions, and delivery schedules.
- Delivery & Pickup: Deliver and pick up cargo at designated locations, obtaining necessary signatures, delivery confirmations (PODs), and other required documentation.
- Documentation & Record Keeping (Driving Related): Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of deliveries, mileage, fuel consumption, vehicle condition, hours of service (HOS) using electronic logging devices (ELDs) where applicable, and other relevant information.
- Communication with Dispatch: Communicate regularly with dispatchers using two-way radios, mobile devices, or other communication systems to provide updates on delivery status, report any delays or issues, and receive instructions.
- Safety Compliance (Driving & Loading/Unloading): Adhere to all safety regulations and procedures related to driving, loading, unloading, cargo handling, and workplace safety. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Vehicle Maintenance (Basic): Perform basic vehicle maintenance tasks, such as checking fluid levels, tire pressure, and lights. Report any maintenance needs or defects to the maintenance department promptly.
Knowledge, Skills and Aptitude
- Educational Qualifications and Certifications: A valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or equivalent is essential. A clean driving record is required. Certifications related to hazardous materials transportation (HazMat), specialized endorsements (e.g., tanker, doubles/triples), and other relevant training are a plus.
- Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of traffic laws, regulations (including HOS regulations), and safe driving practices for heavy-duty trucks. Knowledge of cargo securement methods and equipment specific to different cargo types. Basic knowledge of vehicle mechanics and maintenance.
- Technical Skills: Excellent driving skills and the ability to operate a heavy-duty truck safely and efficiently in various road and weather conditions. Ability to secure cargo properly using various methods and equipment. Good navigation and communication skills. Proficiency in using electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS devices, telematics systems, and other relevant technology.
- Language Skills: Basic Arabic and English communication skills are preferred.
- Experience: Minimum of 2-5 years of verifiable experience as a truck driver, with demonstrated experience operating heavy-duty trucks. Experience in the logistics or transportation industry, especially within a similar operational context (e.g., long-haul, regional haul, local delivery), is a significant advantage.
Key Interactions
- Key Internal Contacts:
- Dispatchers
- Warehouse Personnel
- Logistics Personnel
- Maintenance Personnel
- Other Drivers
- Purpose of Interaction: Receiving dispatch instructions, coordinating loading/unloading operations, reporting vehicle maintenance needs, and communicating with other drivers for route information or assistance.
- Key External Contacts:
- Customers (receiving deliveries)
- Shipping/Receiving personnel at delivery/pickup locations
- Truck stop personnel
- Law enforcement (if necessary)
- Department of Transportation (DOT) officials (for inspections or roadside checks)
- Purpose of Interaction: Delivering and picking up cargo, obtaining signatures/PODs, resolving any delivery-related issues, interacting with relevant external parties, and complying with regulatory inspections.
- Direct Reports: N/A