Designated Driver Trainer

I. Job Summary

The Designated Driver Trainer (DDT) is a dual‑role position responsible for operating and servicing a route while stepping into the driver trainer role as needed to support new driver onboarding and ongoing development. This position ensures continuity in daily operations while also playing a critical role in training newly hired drivers to operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with company and regulatory standards.

The Designated Driver Trainer observes and evaluates new drivers’ performance, focusing on safe driving habits, defensive driving skills, and adherence to procedures. Additionally, the Designated Driver Trainer provides coaching and targeted training to drivers with safety performance issues, fostering continuous improvement. This role requires a strong commitment to safety, mentorship, and driver development, balancing operational responsibilities with hands‑on training when needed.

• Operates a vehicle specific to the assigned line of business safely and efficiently, servicing routes in compliance with WM Safety and Life Critical Rules, OSHA and DOT regulations, and all local, state and federal laws while performing all standard driver responsibilities, including pre‑ and post‑trip inspections and ensuring timely and effective waste or recycling collection.
• Conducts on‑the‑job training and coaching on proper vehicle operation, defensive driving techniques, and adherence to safety practices for new drivers and retrains drivers who have been re‑assigned to new routes, line of business, or who are having driving performance issues (i.e. Most Help Needed or Multiple Incident Employee).
• Observes drivers to assess their ability to safely operate and maneuver a WM vehicle and provides immediate, constructive feedback to ensure proper and consistent safety and performance duties are achieved.
• Instructs and reinforces WM SAFETY defensive driving skills, WM Way processes, and OBU tablet usage to drivers.
• Keeps accurate records of the driver’s progress, including areas of strength and improvement, completed training tasks, and additional training and coaching recommendations.
• Reports driver performance data to the Route Manager and Onboarding Optimization Manager; highlighting strengths and areas for improvement; recommends additional coaching and training if needed.
• Mentors drivers by providing guidance and support as they transition into their roles, helping them develop skills and confidence.
• Serves as an ambassador for WM by promoting the company’s values and safety standards, ensuring drivers uphold high performance and compliance expectations.

• 2 years of experience operating a WM vehicle requiring a CDL or
• 2 years equivalent military driving within the last seven (7) years and
• 2 years equivalent experience in supervising personnel, training or coaching others and
• Able to read, write, and speak English well enough to interact with the public, understand traffic signs, respond to official questions, and complete records or reports
• Successfully complete pre‑employment screening, including drug screen and physical
• Commercial Driver License (CDL) Class A or Class B with an air‑brake endorsement.

• High School Diploma or G.E.D (accredited)

• Standing
• Walking
• Lifting
• Pushing
• Pulling
• Crouching
• Reaching
• Handling
• Sitting
• Talking
• Hearing

Field:
This job operates in both inside garage, shop or gas plant conditions as well as in outside conditions that include inclement weather, heat and humidity.

This role is designated as safety sensitive and will require the successful candidate to strictly comply with all safety rules and protocols. As part of the ongoing employment requirements, the successful candidate may be subject to drug and alcohol testing—including pre‑employment screening, post‑incident evaluations, reasonable suspicion checks, and random testing—in accordance with government regulations and company policies.

Pay: The expected salary range for this field position is $22.00 - $31.00 per hour. This represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate’s relevant experience, education, training, certifications, qualifications, and work location.

At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short‑term disability. In addition, we offer a stock purchase plan, company matching on a 401(k), and more. Employees also receive paid vacation, holidays, and personal days. Please note that benefits may vary by site.