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Smart Cooler Route Driver & Merchandiser

ROOTS Vending
Skokie, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 6/9/2026 CLOSED ON 6/13/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Smart Cooler Route Driver & Merchandiser position at ROOTS Vending?

Job Summary

The Smart Cooler Route Driver & Merchandiser is responsible for servicing customer locations by delivering, stocking, merchandising, and maintaining smart coolers and unattended retail equipment. This position serves as the face of the company and plays a critical role in delivering an exceptional customer experience while maximizing sales, product availability, and equipment presentation.

The ideal candidate is dependable, customer-focused, detail-oriented, and takes ownership of their route as if it were their own business.

Duties

Route Service & Delivery

  • Safely operate a company vehicle to service assigned customer locations.
  • Deliver and stock products according to route schedules.
  • Ensure all assigned smart coolers are fully stocked and operational.
  • Follow established route procedures and service standards.
  • Rotate products using First-In-First-Out (FIFO) inventory practices.
  • Remove expired, damaged, or unsellable products.
  • Maintain accurate inventory levels at each location.

Merchandising

  • Merchandise products according to approved planograms.
  • Ensure products are properly faced and positioned for maximum sales.
  • Place best-selling products at eye level and in designated premium locations.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and professional appearance within each cooler.
  • Monitor product performance and communicate opportunities for assortment improvements.

Equipment Care

  • Inspect smart coolers and equipment during every visit.
  • Report equipment issues promptly.
  • Perform basic troubleshooting when appropriate.
  • Maintain cleanliness of equipment, glass surfaces, and surrounding areas.
  • Ensure equipment branding and appearance meet company standards.

Customer Service

  • Develop positive relationships with customers and site contacts.
  • Respond professionally to customer questions and concerns.
  • Identify opportunities to increase sales and customer satisfaction.
  • Report customer feedback, service requests, and competitive activity.

Inventory Management

  • Accurately load and unload inventory.
  • Verify product counts before departure and upon return.
  • Maintain truck inventory according to company procedures.
  • Assist with inventory counts and cycle counts when requested.
  • Minimize product shrink, damage, and waste.

Vehicle Responsibilities

  • Conduct weekly vehicle inspections.
  • Maintain a clean and organized company vehicle.
  • Follow all company driving policies and safety procedures.
  • Report accidents, maintenance concerns, or violations immediately.

Performance Expectations

Successful Route Drivers are expected to:

  • Maintain high in-stock percentages.
  • Minimize product waste and shrink.
  • Increase same-store sales.
  • Follow merchandising standards consistently.
  • Maintain route profitability.
  • Deliver outstanding customer service.
  • Operate safely and professionally at all times.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Performance may be measured by:

  • Route revenue growth
  • Same-store sales growth
  • Product availability (in-stock percentage)
  • Merchandising audit scores
  • Customer satisfaction
  • Inventory accuracy
  • Waste and shrink percentages
  • Service completion rates
  • Route productivity
  • Safety performance

Qualifications

Required

  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to pass background screening and motor vehicle review.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
  • Ability to push, pull, bend, kneel, and stand throughout the workday.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Reliable transportation to and from work.

Preferred

  • Previous vending, convenience services, retail merchandising, delivery, warehouse, or route sales experience.
  • Experience using handheld devices, mobile applications, or route management software.
  • Customer service experience.

Physical Requirements

The employee regularly:

  • Lifts up to 50 pounds.
  • Pushes carts and inventory.
  • Enters and exits a vehicle frequently throughout the day.
  • Bends, reaches, stoops, and climbs.
  • Works in varied weather conditions.
  • Handles refrigerated and frozen products.

Company Values

Every Route Driver is expected to demonstrate:

Ownership

Treat each route, customer, and cooler as if it were your own business.

Accountability

Do what you say you will do and take responsibility for results.

Service

Deliver an exceptional experience for every customer.

Continuous Improvement

Look for opportunities to improve sales, operations, and customer satisfaction.

Teamwork

Support coworkers and contribute to a positive company culture.

Compensation

  • Hourly wage plus overtime, where applicable.
  • Performance incentives and commission opportunities based on company programs.
  • Paid time off and benefits as offered by the company.

Pay: $17.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • Health insurance
  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Paid time off

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $23

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