Fleet Maintenance Manager

About the Role

The Fleet Maintenance Manager owns all aspects of fleet maintenance operations for our client, with full P&L responsibility for the maintenance department. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who can scale a growing operation, build a high-performing team across multiple shifts, and drive cost optimization while maintaining the highest standards of fleet safety and uptime. The ideal candidate combines deep diesel mechanical expertise with proven business acumen and the leadership skills to develop technicians and hold them accountable to quality standards.

• Lead, mentor, and hold accountable a team of diesel technicians and shop foreman, with responsibility for scaling the team as the organization grows
• Build and implement a multi-shift maintenance operation to support expanding fleet capacity
• Establish clear performance standards, quality metrics, and accountability systems for all technicians
• Conduct regular one-on-ones, performance reviews, and skills assessments to develop team capabilities
• Recruit, hire, and onboard new technicians as the department expands
• Foster a safety-first culture with zero tolerance for shortcuts or substandard work
• Own the maintenance department P&L including labor, parts, outside services, and facility costs
• Develop and manage annual maintenance budgets with monthly variance analysis and reporting
• Negotiate pricing with parts vendors, OEM dealers, and outside service providers to reduce costs
• Optimize parts inventory levels to balance availability against carrying costs and obsolescence
• Implement cost-per-mile tracking and drive continuous improvement in fleet operating costs
• Make data-driven decisions on repair vs. replace, in-house vs. outsource, and preventive maintenance intervals
• Oversee all preventive maintenance, repairs, and DOT inspections for the fleet
• Review and approve technician work orders, ensuring repairs are completed correctly the first time
• Diagnose complex mechanical issues and provide hands-on technical guidance when needed
• Establish and enforce quality control processes including post-repair inspections
• Maintain fleet compliance with DOT/FMCSA regulations and manage annual inspection programs
• Implement and optimize fleet maintenance management software (TMT, Fleetio, or similar)
• Track and reduce breakdown frequency, road calls, and repeat repairs through root cause analysis
• Partner with leadership on fleet acquisition decisions including spec development and lifecycle planning
• Plan and execute facility and equipment investments to support multi-shift operations
• Develop SOPs, training programs, and documentation to standardize operations as the team scales
• Evaluate and implement new technologies, tools, and processes to improve efficiency

• Minimum 7 years of experience in commercial fleet maintenance, with strong preference for fuel transport, tanker, or hazmat fleet experience
• 3+ years in a supervisory or management role leading diesel technicians
• Deep technical knowledge of diesel engines, drive trains, air brake systems, electrical systems, and trailer maintenance
• Demonstrated P&L responsibility or budget management experience ($500K+ annually)
• Proven track record of building, developing, and holding teams accountable
• Experience negotiating with vendors and managing parts inventory
• Strong knowledge of DOT/FMCSA regulations, HOS requirements, and annual inspection standards
• Proficiency with fleet maintenance management software and Microsoft Office

• Experience scaling a maintenance operation (adding shifts, expanding headcount, new facilities)
• Background in petroleum/fuel transport fleet maintenance including tank trailer systems
• Experience with Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, or similar Class 8 tractors
• Familiarity with tank trailer manufacturers (Heil, Polar, Walker, etc.)
• Lean or continuous improvement methodology experience

• Leadership:
  Builds strong teams, develops talent, and drives accountability without micromanaging
• CDL Class A with Tanker/Hazmat endorsements
• ASE certifications preferred (Master Medium/Heavy Truck Technician ideal)
• Business Acumen:
  Understands cost drivers and makes decisions that balance quality, speed, and expense
• Technical Expertise:
  Can diagnose issues, train technicians, and ensure quality work
• Process Orientation:
  Creates systems and documentation that scale with growth
• Vendor Management:
  Negotiates effectively and manages supplier relationships
• Problem Solving:
  Uses data to identify root causes and implement lasting solutions

Competitive base salary: $90,000 - $105,000 based on experience

Performance bonus tied to fleet uptime, cost targets, and safety metrics

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Tool allowance and professional development support