Ascend and our affiliates—DTS, DSD, and Fuchs—are shaping the future of regional truckload transportation by combining smart technology with a deep commitment to efficiency and fairness. Our goal is to provide shippers with high-performance solutions while fostering an inclusive workplace where drivers can thrive, achieve their goals, and maintain a strong work-life balance.
PURPOSE
The Lead Driver role serves as a liaison between the assigned location, customer, and management, while also ensuring the safe and accurate completion of daily route deliveries.
ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Service assigned route on time and performs all functions of a Route Driver safely.
- Act as a communication liaison between location drivers and the Operations Manager.
- Communicate all performance, service, and operational issues for the location to the Operations Manager, providing detailed descriptions and examples in writing for the Operations Manager to resolve.
- Serve as lead driver for the location, making sure that driver and customer issues are communicated timely to management.
- Ensure all routes for the assigned location are dispatched on time.
- Ensure all drivers are aware of their weekly schedules assigned by the Operations Manager.
- Ensure the customers’ needs are addressed, and any service issues are reported proactively or timely to the Operations Manager.
- Report route-related issues, including handheld devices, fuel cards, equipment, and customer concerns, to the Operations Manager.
- Ensure the fleet adheres to preventive maintenance schedules and that units are taken to Penske as required.
- Ensure all trucks are stocked with necessary supplies and merchandising materials.
- Serve as a driver trainer and participate in Dedicated Store Deliveries (DSD) training sessions.
- Assist with the onboarding, retraining, and upskilling drivers at the assigned location to include the completion of Luma training.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Must be at least 21 years old
- At least 1 year of customer service experience
- Valid driver’s license for at least 5 years
- Ability to work all necessary work schedules, including holidays/weekends.
- Effective communication skills, both written and verbal
- Must have or be willing to obtain a DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate
- Must have or be willing to obtain Food Handler’s Certification
- Authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship
- Extensive knowledge of applicable truck driving rules and regulations.
- For full qualifications see Ascend Hiring Guidelines
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMITTMENT
Ascend/DSD is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, inclusive environment where all individuals may grow and thrive, respecting the different experiences that each employee brings to their job. Ascend/DSD believes that a diverse work environment results in a better experience for employees and customers and makes Ascend/DSD stronger.
With our mission of diversity and inclusion in mind, we provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), religion, age, disability, citizenship, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression), marital status, ancestry, genetic information, veteran and/or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or Ascend/DTS policy.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being
performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all
responsibilities, duties, and skills required for this position, other duties outside of normal
responsibilities may be performed as necessary to meet the needs of the organization. Nothing in this position description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.
Employee’s application constitutes employee’s understanding of the principal
accountabilities and duties of the position, and certifies that they are physically able to perform
the necessary duties in the work environment.
WE OFFER
Medical, Dental, Vision - 1st of month after hire
401(k)
Employee Assistance Benefit
Enhanced Benefits (STD, LTD, Critical Care)
Paid Holidays
Paid Time Off
