Fleet managers are employed in the transportation industry and are responsible for the organization of fleets (or groups) of vehicles. Some fleet managers work for government agencies like police departments and schools, while others work for private companies or trucking companies. The types of vehicles that a fleet manager is in charge of are determined the industry in which he or she works. To work as a fleet manager, most people need a college diploma and practical experience.
Fleet managers work in a variety of industries. Large schools, for example, frequently employ a fleet manager to oversee school buses and other vehicles. Vehicle fleets are sometimes used businesses for sales and personnel transportation. Similarly, rental car companies frequently hire personnel to manage the large number of vehicles available for rent at each location.
A fleet manager’s responsibilities can vary. A person who chooses to work as a fleet manager is typically in charge of maintenance and repair schedules. These plans are used to keep cars and trucks in good working order and avoid downtime. Fleet managers also keep track of the condition of all company vehicles and oversee the purchase of new vehicles when necessary.
In most cases, workers in these positions do not work alone. Vehicle maintenance staff members are frequently directed the manager in large organizations and agencies. Officers in the organization or business, such as transportation directors or vice presidents, report to fleet managers. These employees collaborate to create annual budgets and policies for the fleet’s vehicles.
People who want to work as a fleet manager must have both education and experience. Companies generally prefer to hire employees with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a field related to organization and management. Other jobs provide many people with experience with vehicle maintenance and worker supervision. People in this position need to be able to deal with a wide range of people, as well as have strong verbal and written skills.
Job seekers can find employment opportunities in this field in a variety of ways. Individuals who are interested make direct contact with companies and agencies that operate large fleets of vehicles. Alternatively, those interested in becoming a fleet manager can look for openings through job listings and placement services such as newspaper ads and job websites. Managers can advance to larger fleets of vehicles or move up in an organization to become transportation directors or division presidents after being hired.