What does a Transportation Supervisor do?
Published 4 min read
A transportation supervisor is responsible for the coordination and supervision of all activities related to the transportation of people or goods. This may include coordinating the work of drivers, dispatchers, and other staff; developing and implementing transportation plans and schedules; and ensuring that vehicles are properly maintained.
Transportation Supervisor job duties include:
- Schedule and dispatch workers, work crews, equipment, or service vehicles to appropriate locations according to customer requests, specifications, or needs
- Confer with customers or subordinates to resolve problems
- Maintain contact with subordinates in order to receive reports and resolve problems
- Inspect equipment to determine if repairs are needed
- Investigate accidents or incidents to determine causes and take corrective action
- Train new employees
- Recommend or initiate personnel actions, such as promotions, transfers, discharges, or disciplinary measures
- Resolve customer complaints regarding transportation services
- Prepare and submit reports on daily operations and maintenance activities
Transportation Supervisor Job Requirements
A transportation supervisor is responsible for coordinating the activities of workers who transport goods and materials. They typically work in the shipping and receiving department of a company. Some companies may require their transportation supervisors to have a bachelor's degree in business or a related field, while others may only require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many transportation supervisors have previous experience working in shipping and receiving, as well as experience with the company's products and services. Some companies may also require their transportation supervisors to be certified in forklift operation or other specialized equipment.
Transportation Supervisor Skills
- Communication
- Leadership
- Organization
- Time Management
- Scheduling
- Budgeting
- Inventory Management
- Safety Procedures
- Training
- Vehicle Maintenance
- Customer Service
Related: Top Transportation Supervisor Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Transportation Supervisor
There are many ways to become a transportation supervisor. The most common way is to start out as a transportation coordinator or manager and then be promoted to supervisor. Another way is to have a degree in business administration or management with a concentration in transportation. Some employers may also require experience in the transportation industry.
As a transportation supervisor, you will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a transportation department. This will include coordinating schedules, route planning, and dispatching vehicles. You will also be responsible for ensuring that all vehicles are properly maintained and meet all safety standards. In addition, you will be responsible for training and supervising employees.
If you are interested in becoming a transportation supervisor, it is important to have strong communication and organizational skills. You should also be able to work well under pressure and have the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Related: Transportation Supervisor Resume Example
Related: Transportation Supervisor Interview Questions (With Example Answers)