Operations Route Manager

GFL Industries; Lakeland (FL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

15 days PTO

Medical/Dental/Vision coverage

401(k) plan with employer match

Paid holidays

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

GFL Environmental in Lakeland, FL seeks a Route Manager to own transportation requirements, review day-to-day operations, plan service lines, and balance cost with customer service. You will ensure DOT compliance and lead a team of drivers in a safety-focused culture.

This role emphasizes route optimization, equipment budgeting, and coordination with maintenance and vendors, while maintaining positive communication with clients and residents.

Qualifications

• Supervisory or leadership experience managing teams and operations.
• Knowledge of waste management industry and residential collection operations preferred.
• CDL with Air Brake endorsement preferred; DOT compliance knowledge.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to prioritize under tight timelines.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct supervision, coaching, and training to drivers.
• Promote safety and conduct driver evaluations; ensure safety standards compliance.
• Oversee daily routes and dispatch schedule changes; resolve service issues.
• Develop and manage annual equipment budgets; coordinate with maintenance.
• Maintain inventory and coordinate with vendors for supplies.
• Maintain professional communication with residents and clients to resolve inquiries.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Conflict resolution

Time management

Team supervision

Education

CDL with Air Brake endorsement

Tools

Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)

Job description

Position Summary

The Route Manager will be responsible for developing a thorough understanding of the Company's transportation Requirements: and patterns. They will review and process day to day operations, evaluate and recommend equipment needs, and plan and schedule appropriate service lines to maintain a cost effective balance between customer service and cost of service. They will ensure compliance with all government related programs specific to mode and direction of related haulage.

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 dedicated leader to join our growing team in Lakeland, FL.

Key Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Supervision: Provide direct supervision, continuous coaching, and training to drivers; conduct regular driver reviews and manage performance and discipline.
• Safety & Compliance: Promote a healthy, safe work culture; lead ongoing "sit-in" driver evaluations to promote safe driving habits; conduct accident investigations when necessary; and ensure strict adherence to company and industry safety standards.
• Operations & Scheduling: Oversee daily routes, coordinate with dispatch to relay schedule changes, organize driver vacation requests, and promptly resolve service issues.
• Budget & Fleet Oversight: Recommend annual equipment budgets, manage operational costs within approved limits, and collaborate with maintenance to ensure all vehicles and safety devices are in top condition.
• Vendor & Supply Management: Maintain inventory for required operational supplies and coordinate with vendors to ensure supply chain efficiency.
• Customer Relations: Maintain courteous, prompt, and professional communication with local residents and clients to resolve service inquiries effectively.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Supervisory Experience: Prior experience in a direct supervisory or leadership role managing teams, performance, and day-to-day operations.
• Industry Experience: Waste management experience-specifically with residential collection vehicles-is strongly preferred.
• Driving & Transportation: Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Air Brake endorsement preferred, with solid knowledge of pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections and DOT compliance.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal, communication, and conflict-resolution skills; ability to prioritize under tight timelines; proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word); and willingness to work flexible hours as operational needs arise.

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.

GFL Environmental is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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.

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.