What are the responsibilities and job description for the DSD Route Driver Manager position at Ascend?
Ascend is transforming the regional truckload sector by leveraging technology, building density, and offering driver-friendly routes and policies—making us the carrier of choice for shippers that demand high performance and flexibility at competitive rates, and the employer of choice for drivers seeking a better work-life balance.
PURPOSE
The Route Driver Manager is responsible for managing a fleet of drivers to meet or exceed all required metrics, maximize revenue, minimize costs, and meet or exceed the customer’s service needs.
ACCOUNTABILITIES
Strengthen employee relations to reduce workforce turnover and build strong driver relationships.
Collaborate with operational personnel and dispatch to ensure seamless communication and efficiency.
Promote and uphold driver safety, demonstrating a personal commitment to a safe work environment.
Manage driver performance, productivity, and disciplinary actions, including terminations when necessary.
Provide clear, constructive, and actionable feedback for continuous improvement.
Monitor and manage out-of-route mileage and overtime.
Enforce company policies while ensuring accurate payroll processing for drivers.
Serve as a liaison between drivers and all operational departments to enhance coordination.
Proactively resolve load issues to ensure customer satisfaction.
Communicate professionally with drivers, operations, and management at all levels.
Exemplify and promote Ascend/DTS’s core values: Zero Safety Events, Be Courageous, Act with Integrity, Inspire Trust, Teamwork, Have Fun, and Build a Legacy.
QUALIFICATIONS
6 months of experience in or knowledge of the transportation industry in a driver facing role (Driver Manager, Fleet Manager, Dispatcher, Planner, etc.).
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND TRAITS
Strong leadership and self-management skills.
Effective communication across all levels of the organization.
Proficient in computer-based tasks with the ability to learn new software systems.
Independent decision-making and strategic planning to meet deadlines.
Ability to build relationships that drive results and foster a culture of trust and safety.
Team-oriented mindset focused on continuous improvement.
Skilled in coaching drivers in performance improvement.
Commitment to delivering exceptional service with positive engagement and patience.
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, & LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
High School Diploma or GED.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT
Ascend/DSD is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, inclusive environment where all individuals may grow and thrive, respecting the different experiences that each employee brings to their job. Ascend/DSD believes that a diverse work environment results in a better experience for employees and customers and makes Ascend/DSD stronger.
With our mission of diversity and inclusion in mind, we provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), religion, age, disability, citizenship, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression), marital status, ancestry, genetic information, veteran and/or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or Ascend/DSD policy.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for this position, other duties outside of normal responsibilities may be performed as necessary to meet the needs of the organization. Nothing in this position description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.
Employee’s acknowledgment constitutes employee’s understanding of the principal accountabilities and duties of the position and certifies that they are physically able to perform the necessary duties in the work environment.
WE OFFER
Medical, Dental, Vision - 1st of month after hire
401(k) - 6% match
Employee Assistance Benefit
Enhanced Benefits (STD, LTD, Critical Care)
Paid Holidays
Paid Time Off
PURPOSE
The Route Driver Manager is responsible for managing a fleet of drivers to meet or exceed all required metrics, maximize revenue, minimize costs, and meet or exceed the customer’s service needs.
ACCOUNTABILITIES
Strengthen employee relations to reduce workforce turnover and build strong driver relationships.
Collaborate with operational personnel and dispatch to ensure seamless communication and efficiency.
Promote and uphold driver safety, demonstrating a personal commitment to a safe work environment.
Manage driver performance, productivity, and disciplinary actions, including terminations when necessary.
Provide clear, constructive, and actionable feedback for continuous improvement.
Monitor and manage out-of-route mileage and overtime.
Enforce company policies while ensuring accurate payroll processing for drivers.
Serve as a liaison between drivers and all operational departments to enhance coordination.
Proactively resolve load issues to ensure customer satisfaction.
Communicate professionally with drivers, operations, and management at all levels.
Exemplify and promote Ascend/DTS’s core values: Zero Safety Events, Be Courageous, Act with Integrity, Inspire Trust, Teamwork, Have Fun, and Build a Legacy.
QUALIFICATIONS
6 months of experience in or knowledge of the transportation industry in a driver facing role (Driver Manager, Fleet Manager, Dispatcher, Planner, etc.).
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND TRAITS
Strong leadership and self-management skills.
Effective communication across all levels of the organization.
Proficient in computer-based tasks with the ability to learn new software systems.
Independent decision-making and strategic planning to meet deadlines.
Ability to build relationships that drive results and foster a culture of trust and safety.
Team-oriented mindset focused on continuous improvement.
Skilled in coaching drivers in performance improvement.
Commitment to delivering exceptional service with positive engagement and patience.
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, & LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
High School Diploma or GED.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT
Ascend/DSD is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, inclusive environment where all individuals may grow and thrive, respecting the different experiences that each employee brings to their job. Ascend/DSD believes that a diverse work environment results in a better experience for employees and customers and makes Ascend/DSD stronger.
With our mission of diversity and inclusion in mind, we provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), religion, age, disability, citizenship, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression), marital status, ancestry, genetic information, veteran and/or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or Ascend/DSD policy.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for this position, other duties outside of normal responsibilities may be performed as necessary to meet the needs of the organization. Nothing in this position description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.
Employee’s acknowledgment constitutes employee’s understanding of the principal accountabilities and duties of the position and certifies that they are physically able to perform the necessary duties in the work environment.
WE OFFER
Medical, Dental, Vision - 1st of month after hire
401(k) - 6% match
Employee Assistance Benefit
Enhanced Benefits (STD, LTD, Critical Care)
Paid Holidays
Paid Time Off
