- Design, implement, and continuously improve a structured driver training program covering new hire onboarding (CDL holders and non-CDL trainees), equipment orientation, safe driving practices, and product knowledge.
- Conduct ride-along evaluations with new and existing drivers, providing real-time coaching on vehicle operation, load management, jobsite delivery techniques, and customer interaction.
- Deliver classroom and hands-on training on mixer truck operation, including pre-trip/post-trip inspections, drum speed management, water addition protocols, chute operation, washout procedures, and slump management.
- Develop and maintain all training materials, competency checklists, and sign-off documentation aligned with company standards and DOT/FMCSA requirements.
- Administer skills assessments and certification checkpoints throughout the training period; make recommendations on trainee readiness for independent operation.
- Coordinate refresher training, remedial coaching, and seasonal safety campaigns (e.g., heat illness prevention, monsoon driving, winter operations).
- Directly supervise the ready-mix driver team, including scheduling, time-off approvals, performance reviews, disciplinary actions, and termination recommendations.
- Recruit, interview, and onboard new drivers in coordination with HR and operations leadership.
- Set and communicate clear performance expectations for safety, delivery efficiency, customer service, truck care, and professionalism.
- Monitor driver performance metrics including loads per day, on-time delivery, returned concrete, customer complaints, accident/incident rates, and HOS compliance.
- Conduct regular driver meetings to communicate company updates, address concerns, reinforce safety expectations, and recognize outstanding performance.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for driver issues, grievances, and conflict resolution; escalate to General Manager as appropriate.
- Manage driver files to ensure compliance with CDL requirements, medical certifications, MVR reviews, drug/alcohol testing records, and training documentation.
- Champion a safety-first culture across the driver workforce; lead by example in all safety practices.
- Ensure full compliance with FMCSA, DOT, OSHA, and Arizona state regulations governing commercial motor vehicle operations, including Hours of Service (HOS), vehicle inspection requirements, and hazmat protocols.
- Investigate all accidents, incidents, and near-misses involving company vehicles; complete root cause analysis, corrective action plans, and documentation.
- Coordinate with insurance carriers and legal counsel on accident claims and driver-related liability matters as directed.
- Conduct periodic ride-along audits, jobsite safety observations, and pre-trip inspection spot checks.
- Maintain and update the company’s Driver Safety Manual and Standard Operating Procedures.
- Collaborate closely with dispatch to optimize truck assignments, route planning, and delivery sequencing for maximum efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Coordinate with plant operations and quality control to ensure drivers understand product specifications, load tickets, and delivery instructions.
- Work with fleet maintenance to communicate vehicle defects, schedule repairs, and manage truck availability.
- Support Command Alkon dispatch system utilization, ensuring drivers are proficient with in-cab technology, ticketing systems, and GPS/ELD devices.
- Assist with capacity planning and fleet sizing recommendations based on demand forecasts and driver availability.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Minimum 5 years of experience operating ready-mix concrete trucks (front-discharge and/or rear-discharge).
- Minimum 2 years of supervisory, lead driver, or driver training experience in a ready-mix or heavy commercial fleet environment.
- Valid CDL Class A or Class B with no restrictions; clean driving record with no major violations in the past 3 years.
- Current DOT medical certificate.
- Thorough knowledge of FMCSA regulations, Hours of Service rules, DOT vehicle inspection requirements, and CDL licensing standards.
- Strong understanding of ready-mix concrete products, delivery logistics, and customer service expectations in the construction industry.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to train, coach, and motivate a diverse workforce.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and fleet/dispatch technology.
- Must be able to pass pre-employment drug screen and background check.
- NRMCA-certified Concrete Delivery Professional or equivalent industry credential.
- Experience with Command Alkon COMMANDbatch and/or Connex dispatch platforms.
- Smith System, National Safety Council, or equivalent defensive driving instructor certification.
- Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred given workforce demographics.
- Experience developing training curricula and conducting formal classroom instruction.
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
- Familiarity with ELD systems (e.g., Motive, Samsara, KeepTruckin).
- Ability to climb in and out of mixer truck cabs and work around heavy equipment throughout the shift.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly (e.g., chute extensions, safety equipment).
- Must be able to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods; work is split between office, yard, and field environments.
- Exposure to outdoor conditions including extreme heat (Arizona summers), dust, noise, and concrete materials.
- Ability to operate a commercial motor vehicle for training and evaluation purposes.
- Standard schedule: Monday–Friday, start times typically 3:30 AM–5:00 AM to align with batch plant operations and first loads.
- Overtime and occasional Saturday work required based on seasonal demand, training schedules, and operational needs.
- Must be available by phone during operating hours for driver issues, accidents, and emergencies.
- Travel within the Phoenix metro area to jobsites, plant locations, and training venues.
The Ready Mix Driver Trainer/Manager oversees and coordinates all aspects of the driver workforce at Sunmat Materials, including recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, and ongoing development. This role is responsible for building a safety-first driving culture, ensuring regulatory compliance, maintaining delivery efficiency, and serving as the primary link between drivers, dispatch, plant operations, and company leadership. The ideal candidate combines hands-on ready-mix delivery experience with strong leadership and communication skills
