Open Deck Trainer

Nussbaum; Illinois; On-site; USD 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life & disability insurance

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)

401(k) match

Professional development and wellness program benefits

Free gourmet lunches every other month

Job summary

Nussbaum is seeking a full-time Open Deck Trainer to enhance driver training in cargo securement and tarping techniques. This role combines office work with hands-on training in the field, where effective communication and teaching skills are essential. Applicants must hold a Class A CDL and possess open deck driving experience.

Competitive compensation ranges from $65,000 to $80,000, alongside benefits like life insurance and a 401(k) match.

Qualifications

• Open deck driving experience/knowledge required; familiarity with multiple trailer types preferred.
• Working knowledge of FMCSA cargo securement regulations (Part 393).
• Experience tarping a wide variety of freight types.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary resource for flatbed drivers on cargo securement and tarping.
• Teach proper cargo securement techniques and tarping methods.
• Coach drivers on load inspection and compliance.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Detail oriented

Patient and approachable

Team player

Education

Class A CDL required

Tools

Word

Excel

Job description

Role Overview

Driver Development is a major focus for Nussbaum Transportation. Equipping our flatbed drivers to safely load, secure, and tarp every type of freight we haul is at the heart of what keeps our drivers and the motoring public safe.

We are looking for a full-time Open Deck Trainer who can integrate into our Driver Training team and serve as a go‑to resource for flatbed drivers on cargo securement and tarping. This is primarily an office‑based role, with regular communication support, training coordination, and content development, alongside periodic hands‑on training in the yard and on the road. This includes being able to respectfully communicate with Drivers, Operations, and others involved in the load planning and securement process.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary resource for flatbed drivers on cargo securement and tarping questions by phone, in person, or hands‑on.
• Teach proper cargo securement: straps, chains, binders, edge protectors, dunnage, and load‑specific tie‑down patterns.
• Teach proper tarping techniques on a wide range of freight types.
• Coach drivers on load inspection, working load limit calculations, and FMCSA Part 393 cargo securement compliance.
• Answer driver questions in real time by phone.
• Occasional ride‑along to develop newer flatbed drivers in real‑world conditions.
• Partner with the Open Deck team and Driver Training team to keep training content current and consistent.
• Assist with local loads, including grabbing and loading freight from shippers like Bridgestone and securing it for the next driver.
• Teach drivers proper en‑route securement inspection.
• Maintain training records and track driver progress.
• Coach drivers on how to respond to in‑field securement failures, including proper protocols for safely addressing a compromised load, communicating with dispatch, and preventing injuries to themselves and others on the road.
• Assist with hands‑on training components of Nussbaum’s CertRed program, helping drivers meet the standards required for certification.
• Assist in conducting simulator training.

Schedule & Compensation

• Full time: Monday‑Friday, 7:00 am – 4:30 pm.
• Location: Corporate Offices – 19336 N 1425 East Rd., Hudson IL plus on‑road training as assigned.
• Pay range: $65,000‑$80,000.
• Life & disability insurance.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) option.
• ESOP account – company‑funded supplemental retirement account (on top of the 401(k)).
• 401(k) match.
• Cross‑department networking opportunities.
• Professional development and wellness program benefits.
• Food days: every other month, enjoy a free gourmet lunch served by fellow employee owners.

Job Requirements

• Team player – able to interact well with others, respectful, gives/receives feedback with grace and honesty.
• Strong communication skills – verbal and written.
• Patient and approachable, comfortable teaching drivers of varying experience levels.
• Self‑motivated – identifies new opportunities and takes initiative to solve problems.
• Desire for continual learning – always looking to grow, both personally and professionally.
• Detail oriented.

Experience & Qualifications

• Class A CDL required.
• Open deck driving experience/knowledge required; familiarity with multiple trailer types preferred (standard flatbed, step deck, RGN, Conestoga).
• Working knowledge of FMCSA cargo securement regulations (Part 393).
• Experience tarping a wide variety of freight types.
• Basic knowledge of Word, Excel, and general computer skills.

Physical Requirements

• While this is primarily an office‑based role, the hands‑on component requires the ability to climb on and off trailers, lift and maneuver heavy tarps and chains, work outdoors in all weather conditions, and demonstrate proper securement techniques in the field.