Job Description

Job Title: Transportation Manager

Department: Logistics & Distribution

Reports To: Director of Operations / General Manager

Location: [Insert City, Region]

Job Type: Full-Time

Position Summary:

The Transportation Manager is responsible for managing and optimizing the daily transportation operations for a regional supermarket chain. This role ensures timely, cost-effective, and safe movement of goods from distribution centers to stores, while providing hands-on leadership to a small team of drivers and logistics staff. The ideal candidate is a working manager comfortable balancing strategic responsibilities with direct operational oversight.

Core Responsibilities:

Daily Transportation Management

• Schedule and dispatch deliveries to multiple store locations within the region.

• Monitor routes to ensure on-time performance and minimize fuel usage and overtime costs.

• Supervise a small team of in-house drivers or contract carriers; fill in as dispatcher or driver when needed.

Fleet & Vendor Oversight

• Maintain a small fleet of trucks/vans, including scheduling regular inspections and service.

• Coordinate with local maintenance vendors and parts suppliers for vehicle upkeep.

• Manage relationships with third-party delivery services or leased vehicle providers.

Cost Control & Inventory Coordination

• Monitor transportation budgets and identify areas to reduce cost per delivery.

• Collaborate with inventory managers to plan shipment timing based on sales trends and promotions.

• Report variances in fuel usage, mileage, and delivery timeliness.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to DOT, OSHA, and state safety regulations.

• Maintain accurate records of driver logs, vehicle inspections, and accident reports.

• Promote a safety-first culture among drivers and warehouse staff.

Technology & Reporting

• Utilize basic logistics software, GPS tracking, or spreadsheets to monitor deliveries.

• Maintain accurate documentation and reports for management reviews.

• Recommend process improvements to enhance route efficiency or customer service.

Preferred Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Business, or related field (preferred but not required).

• 3+ years of transportation, delivery, or warehouse experience in a retail or grocery environment.

• Previous experience managing a small logistics team or fleet strongly preferred.

Skills

• Hands-on, adaptable leadership style; able to lead by example.

• Working knowledge of regional transportation routes and regulations.

• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive attitude.

• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or TMS software (preferred).

Work Environment:

• Primarily warehouse/office-based with frequent site visits to stores.

• Must be able to work flexible hours including early mornings or weekends during high-demand periods.

• Occasional lifting or hands-on vehicle inspection required.

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