A transportation supervisor can work in a number of different industries, including schools, package shipping, and distribution, among others. The supervisor is responsible for directing employees and is involved in customer service and safety issues. This person must also keep track of time sheets, job reports, and inventory logs, among other things. The position’s unique requirements include little formal education and a strong emphasis on work experience or on-the-job training.
Transportation supervisors are involved in a company’s daily operations on a variety of levels, starting with the hiring and interviewing of new employees. They’re in charge of training new hires in accordance with company policies, and they’re also in charge of assigning routes to new drivers while scheduling existing routes. Supervisors dispatch drivers as needed and may be required to drive a route themselves on occasion. Customer complaints about route drivers or damaged goods are also handled them.
Reviewing, compiling, and forwarding paper work and reports to the appropriate departments is also part of the job. The transportation supervisor must follow strict budget guidelines and be able to analyze financial reports. For payroll purposes, the supervisor reviews daily and weekly reports submitted drivers regarding work hours and miles logged. They also keep track of vehicle maintenance costs and the amount of fuel consumed on a daily basis.
Many companies in the transportation industry are concerned about safety and legal issues. To avoid accidents, the supervisor must be knowledgeable about current transportation laws. The transportation supervisor is responsible for coordinating driver safety meetings to ensure that everyone is following safety regulations and current transportation laws. When an accident occurs, the supervisor begins an investigation to determine the cause of the accident speaking with drivers directly and reviewing police reports. The supervisor takes appropriate action in response to the findings, compiles a written report, and submits it to upper management.
A high school diploma is the only formal education required for the position of transportation supervisor. Many employers seek candidates who have strong interpersonal and communication skills, as well as the ability to multitask. Previous supervisory experience and extensive knowledge of the transportation industry can also help you land a job. Computer programs like Microsoft Word®, Excel®, and Outlook® are also beneficial.