Job Information
Forward Air Manager, Driver Orientation & Training in Groveport, Ohio
Position: Manager, Driver Orientation & Training
Job Description:
The Manager, Driver Orientation & Training will oversee the orientation, training, and development of new independent contractors and company drivers ensuring that they are well-versed in Forward Air's commercial vehicle safety policies and practices. This role involves leading a team of instructors, developing and implementing orientation and training programs, and ensuring that all classes are conducted according to the company’s standards and regulatory requirements. The Manager, Driver Orientation & Training will report directly to the Director, Enterprise Driver Relations and will be pivotal in maintaining a high standard of driver competency and safety within the organization.
The manager will also be responsible for the ongoing development and delivery of orientation and training programs, including classroom instruction, hands-on training, on-road and simulated road tests. This position requires strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills to effectively manage both people and processes.
Core Responsibilities & Duties:
Lead, mentor, and support a team of Fleet Orientation Instructors in Columbus, OH and Los Angeles, CA
Develop and maintain a high-performing team through regular feedback and performance evaluations
Foster a positive and collaborative working environment
Teach orientation classes as needed
Design, implement, and continuously improve orientation and training programs for new and existing drivers
Ensure all training materials and programs are up to date with industry standards and FMCSA regulations
Develop best practice orientation and training scenarios and facilitate on-road and simulated road tests for all incoming drivers
Ensure all orientation and training records, quizzes, test results, and completion documentation are accurately maintained and submitted in a timely manner
Track and report on class attendee progress, identifying any areas where additional training or support is needed
Promote and enforce adherence to Forward Air’s commercial vehicle safety policies and FMCSA & DOT regulations
Introduce drivers to emergency procedures and vehicle handling in critical situations using simulators and other tools
Implement an already designed “Dock to Driver” program for Forward employees
Collaborate with orientation instructors, recruiting managers, and safety teams to identify and address at-risk drivers
Work closely with the recruiting and orientation teams to align training schedules and requirements
Act as a liaison between the training department and other support departments to ensure seamless operations
Communicate effectively with all stakeholders, maintaining a professional and positive corporate image
Stay updated on industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices
Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge
Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
Proven experience in training, instruction, or education in an adult learning environment, preferably within the transportation or logistics industry
Must be technologically sound, and be able to research and implement technology into the classroom
Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and inspire a team
In-depth knowledge of CDL training, testing processes, and FMCSA and DOT regulations is a plus
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Proficient in Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively
Must hold, or be willing to obtain, a Class A CDL license
Ability to work a flexible schedule as needed
Skills:
A proactive, “can do” attitude with a commitment to excellence
High energy with a perpetual positive attitude
Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure
Commitment to safety and a passion for teaching and developing others
Forward Air is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
About Us
Since 1990, Forward Air has been a leading provider of ground transportation and related logistics services to the North American air freight and expedited LTL market. We offer surface shipping on an accelerated “time-definite” basis, delivering cargo at a specific time, but under less time-sensitive situations – supplying you with a cost effective, reliable alternative to air transportation. We work with companies of all sizes to develop tangible advantages and build the best products to meet your specific needs. Forward Air presents to the wholesale transportation community (logistics companies, freight forwarders, integrated air cargo carriers, passenger/ cargo airlines, and non-traditional shippers), a single-source provider that can deliver more supply chain services and a superior menu of choices. Throughout the years we have added supplementary lines to our linehaul service, such as full truckload operations (Truckload Services), final-mile coverage (Complete® Cartage), and an Airline Logistics program, and we will continue to expand our services to meet the changing needs and growth of our customer base.
Forward Air is structured to optimize both savings and service to our customers. Direct partnerships with owner-operators and other surface transportation providers, enable us to remain cost-competitive. The Forward Air network is designed with over 90 facilities located at or near major U.S. and Canadian airports, 12 regional sort centers and over 300 beyond points (secondary airports provided through our Complete Cartage service), creating one of the most comprehensive linehaul networks in the industry.
Ranked 3rd in Newsweeks 2022 "Americas Most Trustworthy Companies (https://www.newsweek.com/americas-most-trustworthy-companies-2022/transport-logistics-packaging) " publication
About the Team
