Route Driver Manager, DSD

Ascend; Memphis, Northern (TN, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

401(k)

Employee Assistance Program

Disability insurance

Paid Holidays

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Ascend is seeking a Route Driver Manager to lead a fleet of drivers and meet service metrics. You will oversee performance, safety, and payroll accuracy while collaborating with dispatch and operations to ensure efficient routing and customer satisfaction.

The role emphasizes leadership, coaching, and adherence to company values, including zero safety events and teamwork, in a dynamic transportation environment.

Qualifications

• 6+ months of experience in or knowledge of the transportation industry in a driver facing role (Driver Manager, Fleet Manager, Dispatcher, Planner, etc.).
• Proficient in computer-based tasks and able to learn new software systems.
• Independent decision-making and strategic planning to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Strengthen employee relations to reduce workforce turnover and build strong driver relationships.
• Collaborate with operational personnel and dispatch to ensure seamless communication and efficiency.
• Promote and uphold driver safety, demonstrating a personal commitment to a safe work environment.
• Manage driver performance, productivity, and disciplinary actions, including terminations when necessary.
• Provide clear, constructive, and actionable feedback for continuous improvement.
• Monitor and manage out-of-route mileage and overtime.
• Enforce company policies while ensuring accurate payroll processing for drivers.
• Serve as a liaison between drivers and all operational departments to enhance coordination.
• Proactively resolve load issues to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Communicate professionally with drivers, operations, and management at all levels.
• Exemplify and promote Ascend/DTS ’s core values: Zero Safety Events, Be Courageous, Act with Integrity, Inspire Trust, Teamwork, Have Fun, and Build a Legacy.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Computer skills

Decision making

Relationship building

Teamwork

Coaching drivers

Customer service

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Computer-based systems

Job description

Posted Thursday, August 20, 2026 at 6:00 AM | Expires Sunday, September 6, 2026 at 5:59 AM

Ascend and its affiliates—DTS, DSD, and Fuchs—are shaping the future of truckload transportation through smart technology and a strong commitment to efficiency and fairness. We foster an inclusive workplace where team members can grow, achieve their goals, and maintain a healthy work‑life balance.

Job Title

Route Driver Manager

Classification

Exempt

Department

Operations

STATUS

Full-time

Reports to

DFD Operations Manager

Grade

PURPOSE

T he Route Driver Manager is responsible for managing a fleet of drivers to meet or exceed all required metrics, maximize revenue, minimize costs, and meet or exceed the customer’s service needs.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

Strengthen employee relations to reduce workforce turnover and build strong driver relationships.

Collaborate with operational personnel and dispatch to ensure seamless communication and efficiency.

Promote and uphold driver safety, demonstrating a personal commitment to a safe work environment.

Manage driver performance, productivity, and disciplinary actions, including terminations when necessary.

Provide clear, constructive, and actionable feedback for continuous improvement.

Monitor and manage out-of-route mileage and overtime.

Enforce company policies while ensuring accurate payroll processing for drivers.

Serve as a liaison between drivers and all operational departments to enhance coordination.

Proactively resolve load issues to ensure customer satisfaction.

Communicate professionally with drivers, operations, and management at all levels.

Exemplify and promote Ascend/DTS ’s core values: Zero Safety Events, Be Courageous, Act with Integrity, Inspire Trust, Teamwork, Have Fun, and Build a Legacy.

Qualifications

6+ months of experience in or knowledge of the transportation industry in a driver facing role (Driver Manager, Fleet Manager, Dispatcher, Planner, etc.).

KNOWLEDGE, Skills, and traits

Strong leadership and self-management skills.

Effective communication across all levels of the organization.

Proficient in computer-based tasks with the ability to learn new software systems.

Independent decision-making and strategic planning to meet deadlines.

Ability to build relationships that drive results and foster a culture of trust and safety.

Team-oriented mindset focused on continuous improvement.

Skilled in coaching drivers in performance improvement.

Commitment to delivering exceptional service with positive engagement and patience.

Education, Certifications , & License Requirements

High School Diploma or GED.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT

Ascend/DSD is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, inclusive environment where all individuals may grow and thrive, respecting the different experiences that each employee brings to their job. Ascend/DSD believes that a diverse work environment results in a better experience for employees and customers and makes Ascend/DSD stronger.

With our mission of diversity and inclusion in mind, we provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), religion, age, disability, citizenship, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression), marital status, ancestry, genetic information, veteran and/or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or Ascend/DSD policy.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for this position, other duties outside of normal responsibilities may be performed as necessary to meet the needs of the organization. Nothing in this position description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.

Employee’s acknowledgment constitutes employee’s understanding of the principal accountabilities and duties of the position and certifies that they are physically able to perform the necessary duties in the work environment.

WE OFFER

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage (effective the 1st of the month after hire)
• 401(k)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Enhanced benefits, including Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off

Equal Employment Opportunity Commitment

Ascend is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, inclusive environment where all individuals may grow and thrive, respecting the different experiences that each employee brings to their job. Ascend believes that a diverse work environment results in a better experience for employees and customers and makes Ascend stronger.

With our mission of diversity and inclusion in mind, we provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), religion, age, disability, citizenship, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression), marital status, ancestry, genetic information, veteran and/or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or Ascend policy.