Orientation and Equipment Trainer in Bridgeview, Illinois at Nova Lines Inc

Position Summary

The Orientation and Equipment Trainer provides operational and safety support for driver onboarding, retraining, and compliance activities. This position is responsible for conducting and supporting road tests, Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) training, load securement training, and Hours of Service (HOS) coaching for new and current drivers.

The Orientation and Equipment Trainer serves as a subject-matter resource for flatbed load securement, ensuring drivers understand and apply applicable company procedures and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements. The position works closely with the Operations and Safety team to ensure drivers are properly trained, evaluated, and prepared to safely perform their duties.

This role also supports the Orientation team with driver arrivals, onboarding activities, and other operational requirements to ensure an efficient, professional, and positive driver experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct road tests for current drivers and new contractor applicants in accordance with company and safety requirements.
• Conduct and support Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) training and retraining.
• Conduct load securement training and retraining for drivers.
• Identify deficiencies during road tests, PTI inspections, or load securement evaluations and provide appropriate coaching.
• Document training, testing, coaching, and retraining activities accurately and timely.
• Communicate driver performance concerns to the appropriate Operations and Safety personnel.

• Serve as a professional resource and subject-matter specialist for flatbed load securement.
• Train and coach drivers on proper load securement procedures and company standards.
• Ensure drivers understand applicable FMCSA load securement requirements.
• Evaluate driver compliance with load securement procedures during training and operational activities.
• Identify unsafe practices and immediately communicate significant safety concerns to management.
• Support the development and reinforcement of load securement best practices throughout the organization.

• Assist the Orientation team with new contractor road tests, PTI training, and load securement training as needed.
• Support the Orientation Coordinator, Facilitator, and Trainer in preparing drivers for release to operations.
• Assist with driver arrivals and help maintain an organized and efficient orientation process.
• Support the movement and flow of drivers through required onboarding and safety activities.
• Assist with orientation logistics and other operational activities as assigned.
• Provide a professional and customer-focused experience to new and current drivers.

• Assist with Hours of Service (HOS) training for new and current drivers.
• Coach drivers regarding HOS requirements, company expectations, and safe operating practices.
• Reinforce compliance with applicable FMCSA regulations and company policies.
• Assist Safety personnel in identifying recurring HOS training needs or knowledge gaps.
• Escalate significant compliance concerns to the Safety Coordinator or Operations & Safety Manager.

• Maintain a working knowledge of FMCSA rules and regulations applicable to driver operations.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and training requirements.
• Immediately report safety concerns, incidents, or significant driver deficiencies to the appropriate manager.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all testing, training, and coaching activities.
• Protect confidential driver and company information.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to driver training, safety, orientation, and compliance.

• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Operations & Safety Manager.
• Maintain professional relationships with drivers, Operations, Safety, and Orientation personnel.
• Adapt to changing operational priorities while maintaining safety and compliance standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• Valid driver's license required.
• Previous commercial driving experience strongly preferred.
• Previous flatbed driving or load securement experience strongly preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of flatbed load securement regulations and practices.
• Working knowledge of FMCSA rules and regulations.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively in a variety of situations and with individuals at different levels of experience.
• Ability to conduct driver evaluations and provide constructive coaching.
• Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of the Operations and Safety team.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to work in an environment requiring interaction with drivers, equipment, and operational personnel.
• Ability to meet company safety and physical requirements associated with the position.

Working Conditions

The position may require a combination of office, training, yard, and outdoor operational activities. The employee may be required to:

• Walk and stand for extended periods.
• Work around commercial vehicles and equipment.
• Conduct driver evaluations and inspections in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions.
• Enter and exit commercial vehicles.
• Ability to climb on trailers and equipment.
• Ability to lift, carry, and secure loads as required for training demonstrations.
• Observe load securement and PTI activities.
• Use computers and other technology for extended periods.
• Follow all required personal protective equipment and safety procedures.

Benefits

Eligible employees of Nova Lines may participate in a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability (STD)
• Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
• Tuition Reimbursement Program

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Nova Lines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, military status, pregnancy, genetic information, arrest or conviction record (as permitted by law), or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement
Nova Lines complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state laws. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

At-Will Employment Statement
Employment with Nova Lines is at-will. This means that either the employee or the Company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause, and with or without notice, in accordance with applicable law. Nothing in this job description or any other company document should be construed as a contract, express or implied, guaranteeing employment for any specific duration.

Job Type: Full-time