What are the responsibilities and job description for the Route Supervisor position at Emterra Environmental USA?
Job Title: Route Supervisor
Location: Bad Axe MI
Job Summary:
The Route Supervisor plays a key role in ensuring the daily completion of residential, commercial, or roll-off waste and recycling routes in compliance with company policies, safety standards, and the applicable union contract. The Route Supervisor provides daily support, coaching, and oversight to drivers and loaders to ensure service is performed safely, efficiently, and in a manner that meets customer expectations and contractual obligations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Oversee the daily performance of assigned union-represented drivers and loaders.
- Monitor and track route progress using systems such as GeoTab, Navusoft, or other route management software.
- Ensure all routes are completed on time, safely, and in accordance with municipal or customer service agreements.
- Conduct daily roll-call and pre-trip safety meetings; ensure proper completion of pre- and post-trip inspections.
- Perform ride-alongs and route audits to support drivers and assess training needs.
- Support new driver onboarding and ensure ongoing compliance with DOT, OSHA, and company safety standards.
- Respond to service issues or customer complaints by investigating and resolving matters in a timely, professional, and respectful manner.
- Coordinate with Maintenance to ensure vehicle safety and report repair needs promptly.
- Maintain accurate records of time, attendance, performance, incidents, and discipline.
- Administer coaching and discipline fairly, consistently, and in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
- Participate in grievance discussions and assist in resolving labor issues at the first level when appropriate.
- Work closely with dispatch, customer service, and maintenance departments to coordinate operational needs.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED required; additional education or training in operations or logistics is a plus.
- 2–5 years of experience in waste hauling, logistics, or transportation industry.
- Prior supervisory experience, particularly in a union environment, strongly preferred.
- Understanding of CBA terms, grievance procedures, and working in a unionized environment.
- CDL (Class B or A) preferred or required based on company policy.
- Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to coach respectfully and effectively.
- Familiarity with route management systems (GeoTab, Navusoft, etc.) and basic computer proficiency.
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) for creating schedules, writing reports, and managing documentation.
Work Environment:
- Indoor/outdoor mix; must be able to work in varying weather conditions.
- Requires walking, standing, and occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs).
- Early morning starts, with occasional overtime, weekend, or holiday work required.
Key Competencies:
- Respectful and consistent supervision of union employees
- Commitment to safety and regulatory compliance
- Operational efficiency and accountability
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Fair, knowledgeable application of CBA terms