What are the responsibilities and job description for the Driver Helper position at Salson Logistics Inc?
JOB SUMMARY
A Driver Helper does whatever is needed to keep the truck driver short of driving (assisting with back ups, adjusting mirrors, parking, and looking through passenger mirrors) and delivering freight. While the work can be summarized in a job description, many of the duties are left to the driver's discretion.
Handling the Loads
Driver helper's work is physical, and his biggest job may be to help load or unload the truck. This may mean loading boxes on a hand truck, handling one end of particularly large items or hand-carrying some items. Much of this depends on the type of freight being handled; loading the truck requires some intelligence and an eye toward maximizing the use of space. The helper also must make sure breakable items are protected from damage.
Navigation
Driver helpers will be asked by the Driver to give the directions to the next delivery point, and sometimes to speak with dispatchers if the driver's hands are busy. On long trips, a helper may need to converse with the driver. This not only gives the driver some company, but also helps keep the driver awake and alert on long hauls.
Guide
A Driver Helper will be asked by the Truck Driver to guide him/her backing the truck into a tight spot can be a daunting task, and the Driver Helper will likely help guide the truck to the loading dock. To guide a truck, the Driver Helper needs to be able to see the side-view mirrors at all times; if he/she doesn't, the driver can't see him either. The Driver Helper should know the turning and backing capabilities of the truck and driver, and be able to communicate his directions with understandable hand signals.
With high-volume delivery companies, the helper will assist the driver in customer service. During busy periods, a driver may handle some of the deliveries and the helper handle the rest. Even when customer service is not mentioned as part of the job, it's implied--a customer may want their delivery dropped in a specific location or in a certain manner. Because of this frequent contact with customers, the driver helper may be asked to pay attention to his/her appearance.
QUALIFICATIONS
Routinely bend, stretch, reach, pull and lift up to 70 lbs.
Spend majority of the day walking and/or standing.
Read, write and communicate effectively.
Be proactive and team player.
MISCELLANEOUS
- Driver Helpers are not permitted to sleep in the Truck.
- Travel required in this position: 75-100%.
- Working conditions vary depending on the location and the season. Both temperature variations and inclement weather are real aspects of the work environment.
- Must have steel toe boots.
- Work long hours: Monday through Friday and on-call weekends, mandatory overtime.
- Interpersonal skills; the ability to work well with others.
- Can be exposed to year-round outdoor climate.