CDL Operations Driver Forman

GFL Industries; Lakeland (FL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO 15 days

Medical, Dental, Vision

4 Medical Plan Options with HSA

401(k) Plan with employer match

Paid Holidays

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

GFL Environmental in Lakeland, FL seeks an Operations Driver Foreman / Route Lead who blends field operations expertise with strong leadership. You’ll start around 4:45 AM to dispatch drivers and guide daily routes, and you may occasionally drive a route when needed.

The role emphasizes safety, DOT compliance, route performance tracking, and collaboration with management to resolve service issues and keep customers satisfied.

Qualifications

• CDL required with Air Brake endorsement.
• Previous supervisory/lead driver experience.
• Waste management or logistics experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate early-morning dispatch and supervise driver team.
• Assist with route optimization and real-time troubleshooting.
• Safely operate vehicles on occasion to cover routes as needed.
• Ensure safety and DOT compliance and document training/discipline actions.
• Act as liaison between field crews, dispatch, and management to resolve issues.

Skills

Leadership

Route planning

Communication

DOT safety knowledge

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Perform functions to safely supervise, repair, direct and coordinate performance of the employees involved with the service and repair of transportation, hydraulic and other solid waste collection and/or processing equipment.

About GFL Environmental

At GFL Environmental, green is more than just our color-it's our commitment. We are one of North America's leading environmental services companies, providing comprehensive solid waste management, liquid waste management, and infrastructure services. We owe our success to our people, and we are looking for a hands‑on leader to join our team in Lakeland, FL.

Position Summary

We are seeking a dynamic Operations Driver Foreman / Route Lead who brings a balance of field operations expertise and leadership. In this role, you will lead from the front-typically starting at 4:45 AM to dispatch and guide the driver team out for the day. While serving as a key operational lead and providing routing support to optimize daily runs, you will also step into the driver's seat and drive a route on occasion when coverage or operational needs require it.

Key Responsibilities

• Early Morning Dispatch & Team Leadership: Start bright and early at 4:45 AM to coordinate morning check‑ins, guide drivers, provide direct supervision, and ensure a seamless daily rollout.
• Routing Support & Field Guidance: Assist with route optimization, line‑of‑sight driver training, and troubleshooting route issues in real time alongside the Operations Manager.
• Route Coverage (As Needed): Safely operate residential or commercial collection vehicles to cover routes on occasion, ensuring service continuity for our customers.
• Safety & Compliance: Conduct ongoing observational driver evaluations, enforce safety protocols, lead accident investigations when necessary, and ensure strict adherence to DOT standards and company policies.
• Performance & Administrative Support: Track driver performance, assist with scheduling and vacation requests, participate in hiring/road testing new drivers, and document discipline or training plans as needed.
• Customer & Operations Focus: Act as a dependable liaison between field crews, dispatch, and management to resolve service inquiries and maintain high customer satisfaction.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Driving Credentials: Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Air Brake endorsement required.
• Leadership Experience: Prior supervisory, lead driver, or foreman experience managing teams and daily operational workflows.
• Industry Background: Previous experience in waste management (residential or commercial collection) is strongly preferred.
• Work Schedule: Ability to start shifts at 4:45 AM and maintain flexibility as operational needs require.
• Technical & Soft Skills: Strong communication, conflict‑resolution, and route‑planning skills, along with basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) for tracking and reporting.

What We Offer (Our Investment in You!)

We believe that taking care of our team is the foundation of our growth. To support you and your family, we offer:

• 15 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) to recharge and spend time with family.
• Competitive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage to keep you healthy.
• 4 Medical Plan Options, including a Health Savings Account (HSA) featuring an employer contribution and match program.
• 401(k) Plan with an employer match to help you build secure long‑term wealth.
• Paid Holidays so you can celebrate what matters.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing free, confidential counseling services for you and your household.

Equal Opportunity Statement

GFL Environmental is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. GFL is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic.

Work Authorization & Sponsorship

If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact [e-mail]. Please note that GFL does not provide visa sponsorship for this position. Valid work authorization in the country where the job is located is required. Successful candidates will be required to provide valid documentation confirming their eligibility to work in the country where the job is located prior to their start date.

This hiring process may utilize machine‑based systems to assist in screening and assessing applicants. Final selection decisions are made by our recruitment team.