Driver Leader

As a Driver Leader with Hirschbach, you are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of an assigned fleet of drivers. Your primary objectives are to maximize fleet productivity, equipment utilization, and driver retention. You will monitor driver performance, support safe and efficient operations, and ensure that all Hirschbach operators consistently deliver Best in Class service.

Key responsibilities include maintaining regular communication with drivers, resolving operational issues, coordinating freight movement, ensuring compliance with company policies, and proactively supporting drivers to promote job satisfaction and long-term success. Through effective planning, problem-solving, and relationship management, the Driver Leader plays a central role in the overall performance and customer service quality of Hirschbach's fleet operations.

• Communicates with drivers by promptly answering phone calls, emails, and messages to ensure clear communication and reduce operator hold time.
• Sends preplans to drivers and secures load commitments in a timely manner.
• Completes loaded and empty calls accurately and efficiently.
• Tracks operator performance from dispatch through delivery to ensure consistent on-time service.
• Manages operator availability and updates PTAs accurately based on current scheduling needs.
• Optimizes performance of assigned drivers, including on-time pickup/delivery, Hours of Service (HOS) compliance, driver availability, and individual scheduling preferences.
• Builds and maintains professional, positive working relationships with Hirschbach operators and internal operations team members.
• Coaches drivers by identifying performance improvement opportunities and providing guidance and training to support their success.
• Collaborates with the Safety department to ensure drivers meet all compliance requirements and receive proper coaching to uphold company standards.
• Proactively identifies and resolves potential settlement or pay issues by working closely with Driver Payroll.
• Attends meetings related to driver operations and occasionally travels to terminal locations as needed.
• Manages driver availability to maximize fleet productivity.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including proactively supporting other departments to achieve organizational goals.
• During the first 6 months, oversee no more than 15 drivers to allow for training and development.
• Focus on mastering core leadership responsibilities, systems, and company standards.

• Service (Rolling):
  Maintain 98.0%
• Turnover:
  Meet or exceed company turnover targets
• Safety:
  Maintain acceptable safety performance in accordance with company policy

• Demonstrates the ability to provide effective inbound and outbound call support.
• Demonstrates the ability to promptly answer phone calls and messages to ensure efficient communication.
• Displays a strong understanding of Hirschbach operations and the functions of the freight network.
• Shows initiative in learning about issues and processes affecting Hirschbach drivers, increasing proficiency in rapid and effective problem resolution.
• Understands which situations require escalation to Driver Leader II, III, or Senior and communicates professionally from the initial inquiry through final resolution.
• High school diploma or equivalent, accompanied by relevant professional experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain, Management or a related field is preferred.
• Ability to process information with a high level of accuracy and energy.
• Computer proficiency with the ability to navigate between multiple programs.

Monday - Friday, 6am to 4pm MST. This role does have a 5th weekend rotation.

Founded in 1935, Hirschbach Motor Lines has built a sterling reputation for delivering time and temperature-sensitive freight across 48 states. Today, the organization generates $1+ billion in revenue and has become the 2nd largest refrigerated carrier in North America with company headquarters in Dubuque, Iowa. Hirschbach strives to provide the highest level of service in the industry, offering a breadth of services including…