Job Description

JOB TITLE: Local Driver- Class A-Full Time

REPORTS TO:  Regional Service Center Manager

OVERVIEW OF ROLE: To ensure the customer is always serviced first by providing efficient and safe, claim-free pickup and delivery service.  Develop and maintain good customer relations to grow our business. To exemplify Ward's identity in the marketplace as a Pallet Expert.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Operational Services:

• Develop and maintain effective relationships between the Company and the customer.
• Perform pickup and delivery service on designated assignment within standards of the WEIMS system.
• When required, unload and load trailer, either with or without assistance of dockworkers, with or without mechanical freight handling equipment.  Properly perform task to assure safety and to prevent damage to cargo.
• Ensure all shipment paperwork (pro numbers, manifest, bills of lading, shipping orders, freight bills, etc.) required to move with shipments are properly completed and that appropriate paperwork accompanies each shipment when delivered.
• Reinforce marketing messages through daily conversations with customers. Work to understand and support targeted growth plans.

 Pallet Expert:

• Promote Ward's identity in the marketplace as the Pallet Experts by wearing the professional uniform within the guidelines of Ward's uniform policy.
• Demonstrate proper freight handling and blocking methods and effective use of pallet tools.

 Claims Prevention:

• Provide customers with claim-free handling of their freight while performing pickup and delivery service on designated assignment and within standards of the WEIMS system.
• Support Ward's claim prevention process by working with O S & D investigator at service center to report any overage, shortage or damage at time of delivery.  Offer feedback/suggestions on loading practices to dock supervisors to prevent potential damage to freight during P & D operation.
• Apply O S & D labels (provided in driver's notebook) when appropriate.

 Safety:

• Maintain safe driving record as required in P & D Manual - SAF 006.
• Provide a positive representation of the company by demonstrating safe, responsible driving practices.  Operate company vehicle in a safe manner by applying knowledge and skills in maneuvering vehicle at varying speeds in difficult situations such as heavy traffic, inclement weather, or in tight loading dock areas.  Perform pre-trip, enroute and post-trip inspections on equipment.  Ensure equipment defects are reported immediately.  Keep tractor interior clean and orderly. 
• Ensure safe transport of hazardous material in compliance with federal regulations.  Check for proper preparation of shipping papers and ensure papers and markings on freight agree.   Ensure the vehicle is properly loaded and placarded.
• Promptly report all accidents involving driver or company equipment and any delays due to customers, breakdowns, weather or traffic conditions, or other emergencies, or any irregularities relating to pickup or delivery of freight.
• Submit all paperwork and documents required by Federal D. O. T. and Ward Trucking in a timely manner.
• Participate in random DOT drug testing program.
• Maintain security of freight and equipment.

 Communication:

• Offer dock supervisors feedback/suggestions on delivery loading sequence of P & D units.
• Provide constant feedback to Dispatcher and/or Operations Manager on freight characteristics in support of Ward's CBS system.
• Provide feedback to Customer Service Coordinator and proper Territory Sales Manager on specific customer concerns.
• Actively participate in driver meetings and driver sales huddle meetings providing managers with feedback on customers, work processes and the competition. Read internal newsletters such as the Inside Lane and Driving Force to stay abreast of what's happening within the company.
• Using Nextel cellular phone, customer phones or pay phones, regularly communicate with Dispatch the status of pickups and deliveries and delays or other problems encountered at customer facilities or on the roadway.
• Fully support all technologies and processes, introduced by Ward, that are intended to improve efficiencies and/or the customer experience.  Support would include adherence to training programs, guidelines and processes associated with these systems.