What are the responsibilities and job description for the CDL Truck Driver position at Columbia Fruit Packers?
CDL Truck Driver
Columbia Fruit Packers, LLC
Position Title: CDL Truck Driver
Department: Operations / Transportation
Reports To: Transportation Manager / Operations Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The CDL Truck Driver is responsible for the safe, efficient, and timely transportation of fresh fruit, packaging materials, equipment, and other company products between company facilities, cold storage locations, orchards, packing warehouses, customers, and designated delivery points. The driver must operate commercial vehicles in compliance with all federal, state, and company safety regulations while maintaining excellent customer service and professionalism.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Safely operate Class A commercial vehicles, including tractor-trailers and other company-owned equipment.
- Transport fresh fruit and related agricultural products between warehouses, orchards, cold storage facilities, and customer locations.
- Conduct pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip vehicle inspections and report any maintenance or safety concerns immediately.
- Ensure cargo is properly loaded, secured, and transported to prevent damage or loss during transit.
- Maintain accurate transportation records, bills of lading, delivery receipts, inspection reports, and electronic logs as required.
- Comply with all Department of Transportation (DOT), Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Washington State, and company regulations regarding commercial vehicle operation.
- Adhere to Hours-of-Service requirements and maintain required records of duty status.
- Communicate effectively with dispatch, warehouse personnel, supervisors, growers, and customers.
- Assist with loading and unloading when required.
- Maintain cleanliness and basic upkeep of assigned equipment.
- Respond professionally to roadside inspections and cooperate with regulatory agencies as required.
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, and quality assurance standards.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
- Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
- Current DOT Medical Examiner's Certificate.
- Clean driving record with acceptable motor vehicle history.
- Ability to safely operate commercial motor vehicles in varying weather and road conditions.
- Knowledge of DOT and FMCSA regulations.
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Ability to work flexible schedules, including weekends, seasonal peaks, and extended hours during harvest.
Preferred
- Agricultural, produce, or refrigerated freight experience.
- Forklift certification or experience.
- Knowledge of Central Washington orchards, packing operations, and cold storage facilities.
- Bilingual English/Spanish.
Physical Requirements
- Frequently sit for extended periods while operating commercial vehicles.
- Regular climbing, bending, reaching, and entering/exiting truck cabs and trailers.
- Ability to secure loads and inspect equipment in various weather conditions.
- Ability to meet all DOT physical qualification requirements.
Work Environment
- Outdoor and warehouse environments.
- Exposure to seasonal weather conditions, refrigerated storage areas, and agricultural operations.
- Fast-paced environment during harvest and shipping seasons.
Licenses and Certifications
- Valid Class A CDL required.
- Current DOT Medical Card required.
- Must successfully pass pre-employment drug screening, background checks, and all DOT-required testing programs.
Core Competencies
- Safety Focus
- Reliability and Attendance
- Customer Service
- Communication
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
- Teamwork
- Professionalism
Columbia Fruit Packers, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a safe and inclusive workplace for all employees.
This version is tailored for a Washington agricultural operation moving fruit between orchards, packing facilities, cold storage, and customers, rather than a long-haul trucking company.
Pay: $21.00 - $26.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
License/Certification:
- CDL A (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $21 - $26