Spot Truck Driver/Laborer

Job Description

Position Overview

The Spot Truck Driver/Laborer plays a crucial role in our daily operations and is responsible for safely operating spot trucks within our facility to transport materials and products. This full-time position involves operating spot trucks, semi-trucks, and pick-up truck delivery wagons to move pine straw and other materials from field locations to trailer drop yards, and occasionally delivering to customers across Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi. The role demands mastery in maneuvering various trailers and equipment, along with a strong commitment to safety and compliance. Reporting to the Florida Field Supervisor, the Spot Truck Driver/Laborer will also be responsible for maintaining and repairing equipment, coordinating trailer parking, and adhering to all DOT regulations.

When not spotting trailers, the incumbent will perform maintenance and repairs on the spot trucks, trailers, tractors, and other equipment, as assigned. Spotting trailers is seasonal and outside of the main production season (June – October), the incumbent will also operate a tractor to assist with mowing and spraying herbicides. Spraying herbicides requires careful and safe measurement and mixing of these products, so the incumbent will be comfortable with basic calculations, chemical safety protocols and required personal protection equipment (PPE).

This position requires physical fitness, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work independently while upholding Swift Straw’s standards of professionalism and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

Spot Truck and Vehicle Operation

Safely and correctly operate semi-trucks and military spot trucks and trailers.

Jockey trailers in and out of fields.

Conduct pre- and post-trip truck and trailer inspections for safe transport from field to yard.

Assist in loading and unloading trailers when necessary.

Use maps and mapping apps effectively to navigate and complete delivery routes.

Obey all applicable traffic laws and drive safely in inclement weather.

Reporting

Maintain accurate truck and trailer logs, along with other assigned logs.

Report acreage, herbicide use, preventative maintenance, and breakdowns accurately and timely.

Maintenance and Repairs

Use hand and power tools to enhance operational efficiency.

Perform inspections and routine maintenance on equipment, including semi-trucks, military trucks, trailers, field tractors, and implements.

Perform basic diagnosis and repair of van trailers, semi-trucks, military trucks, and tractors, or demonstrate a willingness to learn.

Work closely with the Field Supervisor to ensure repairs are performed effectively and timely.

Land Management

Tractor operation and maintenance.

Implement usage and maintenance (mower, sprayer, bucket, forks, etc.)

Sprayer calibration (knowledge or willingness to learn).

Basic calculating and measuring

Herbicide purpose and mixing.

Safety and Compliance

Ensure personal and employee safety during repairs and trailer movements throughout the facility.

Report all safety discrepancies promptly.

Adhere to company rules, regulations, and DOT regulations governing safe driving, hours of service, inspection, and maintenance.

Qualifications and Characteristics:

Possesses a minimum of 2 years of firsthand experience operating diverse types of tractors and agricultural implements.

Has at least 2 years of experience performing routine maintenance and repairs on tractors and agricultural implements.

Understands and adheres to safety protocols within a mechanic shop and yard environment.

Demonstrates a strong working knowledge of basic hand tools and some power tools, capable of executing basic repairs and maintenance.

Able to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high energy.

A current Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is highly preferred.

Exhibits effective communication skills, both verbal and written, ensuring clear and effective interaction with team members, supervisors, and other stakeholders

Capable of lifting 50 pounds regularly

Able to safely navigate a spot truck across uneven terrain and confined spaces.

Prepared to work in various weather conditions, including hot, cold, and rainy environments.

Must be committed to wearing proper PPE as required by safety regulations.

Ability to obtain a Med Card (company-paid doctor visit) for semi-truck farm operations a plus.

Ability to bend, kneel, twist, squat, stand, and climb as job tasks require.

Must have a valid and active driver's license, necessary for transportation and operation of various company vehicles.

Required to have a cell phone for effective communication and coordination during work hours.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Swift Straw is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Full-time