CDL Driver at Industrical Fabricators – Gastonia, North Carolina

Job Overview:
A CDL Driver for a metal fabrication company is responsible for transporting raw materials, fabricated metal parts, and finished products to and from the fabrication facility. This role requires a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and experience in operating commercial trucks. The driver ensures the safe, timely, and efficient delivery and pickup of materials while maintaining company and industry safety standards.
The CDL Driver may also be responsible for assisting with the loading and unloading of metal products, helping to ensure that materials are transported securely to prevent damage. The role involves working closely with production, logistics, and warehouse teams to meet delivery schedules.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Transporting Materials:
   • Safely drive commercial trucks (such as flatbeds, box trucks, or tractor-trailers) to deliver and pick up metal products, equipment, and raw materials.
   • Plan and follow the safest, most efficient routes while adhering to delivery schedules.
   • Load and unload metal products, ensuring proper securing to prevent damage during transportation.
   • Transport fabricated metal parts, sheets, beams, or other products to construction sites, suppliers, or customer locations.
2. Vehicle Maintenance and Safety:
   • Inspect and maintain vehicles before, during, and after trips to ensure they are in good working condition and meet safety standards.
   • Perform routine checks on the vehicle (tires, lights, brakes, and oil) and report any mechanical issues or damage immediately.
   • Ensure that the vehicle is clean, organized, and fully equipped with necessary tools and materials for the trip.
   • Adhere to all state, local, and federal regulations, including driving hours, weight limits, and safety requirements.
3. Loading and Unloading Assistance:
   • Assist with the safe loading and unloading of fabricated metal items, ensuring that materials are properly secured and protected.
   • Use forklifts, cranes, or other equipment to help move heavy or large metal items when necessary (if certified to do so).
   • Work with warehouse and production staff to ensure materials are loaded in a timely and safe manner.
4. Documentation and Record Keeping:
   • Maintain accurate records of deliveries and pickups, including delivery times, product quantities, and any discrepancies.
   • Complete required paperwork for shipping, delivery, and billing.
   • Document and report any damage or issues with materials during transportation and coordinate with appropriate departments for resolution.
5. Customer Interaction:
   • Provide excellent customer service when delivering to customer locations or receiving materials at vendor sites.
   • Communicate effectively with customers, warehouse staff, and supervisors to ensure timely and accurate deliveries.
   • Handle customer inquiries, complaints, or special requests in a professional manner.
6. Compliance with Safety Standards:
   • Adhere to all safety policies and procedures, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
   • Maintain a safe driving record and practice defensive driving techniques to minimize risk.
   • Ensure that materials and products are properly secured and protected during transportation to prevent accidents or damages.
7. Additional Duties:
   • Assist with other warehouse or production-related tasks as needed.
   • Help maintain inventory levels by reporting material needs or shortages to logistics staff.
   • Perform other duties as assigned by the Manager or Production Supervisor.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Additional training or certifications in transportation or logistics is a plus.
• Experience:
  • Must have a valid CDL (Class A or B, depending on the vehicle type).
  • Previous experience driving commercial vehicles, especially transporting heavy or oversized items, is preferred.
  • Experience in a manufacturing or metal fabrication environment is a plus.
• Skills:
  • Excellent driving skills with a strong understanding of traffic laws, safety regulations, and load securement.
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with customers and team members.
  • Ability to read and understand shipping documents, delivery schedules, and safety instructions.
  • Ability to operate material-handling equipment such as forklifts or cranes (certification may be required).
  • Good problem-solving skills, especially when dealing with transport or delivery challenges.
  • Basic mechanical knowledge for vehicle inspections and maintenance.

Working Conditions:
Hours: Full-time hours with potential for overtime, weekends, or early/late shifts depending on delivery needs.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and move heavy items (up to 50 pounds or more) during loading and unloading.
• Ability to sit for long periods while driving and assist with manual labor as needed.
• Exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, and rain, depending on the delivery location and time of year.

Environment:

• Typically works in outdoor environments for deliveries, on construction sites, or in warehouses.
• May be exposed to noise, dust, and other hazards common in manufacturing or construction sites.
• PPE such as steel-toed boots, gloves, and hard hats may be required for loading/unloading and on-site activities.