Transportation Manager
Job Description Job Description The Transportation Manager is responsible for overseeing BFG Supply’s multi-branch transportation network, ensuring safe, cost-effective, and customer-centric delivery operations. This role manages daily execution while shaping long-term transportation strategy — including fleet utilization, route optimization, carrier partnerships, driver development, and compliance infrastructure. The ideal candidate is a hands-on, motivational leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a vision for building a best-in-class delivery operation that supports BFG’s commitment to service excellence. Compensation Data: Exempt salary, based on experience. Location: Cheswick, PA OR Grand Rapids, MI - 100% Onsite Schedule: M-F, generally an 8am start. Hours will vary based on schedules and seasonality. Travel: As needed; up to 20% expected Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Team Development • Lead, coach, and develop a geographically distributed team. • Manage staffing decisions, including hiring, performance evaluations, and corrective actions. • Build a culture focused on safety, accountability, and service excellence. Transportation Operations Management • Oversee routing, dispatching, fleet availability, and delivery performance. • Analyze transportation metrics: cost per mile, fuel usage, stop density, cube utilization, safety indicators. • Manage workload balancing and delivery zone structuring. Strategic Planning & Continuous Improvement • Identify inefficiencies and implement scalable process improvements. • Utilize data analytics, TMS/WMS tools, and route modeling to enhance performance. • Lead initiatives tied to cost control, logistics optimization, and KPI performance. Safety, Risk & Compliance • Ensure compliance with DOT, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), OSHA, and state regulations where BFG operates. • Responsible for keeping BFG compliant in all requirements pertaining to the management of “hours of service” tracking, DOT files, inspections, and safety documentation. • Lead accident investigations and corrective action processes. Vendor & Partner Management • Manage maintenance, fuel programs, rental agencies, and carrier relationships. • Evaluate vendors against service level agreements (SLAs). • Participate in transportation technology and fleet service RFPs. Budget, Reporting & KPI Ownership • Support transportation budget oversight. • Own KPIs (on-time delivery, cost per route, productivity, fleet utilization, maintenance compliance). • Provide insights to leadership on risks, trends, and strategic opportunities. What you will need to succeed: Required: • Minimum 7 years transportation/logistics experience, including 3 years of leadership. • Strong knowledge of DOT, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and OSHA. • Experience managing drivers or fleet operations across regions. • Advanced skills in routing software, TMS/WMS, telematics, and data analysis. • Strong analytical skills (Excel, Power BI). Preferred: • Bachelor’s degree or commensurate experience preferred. • Distribution/wholesale experience. • Deep CDL and DOT operational knowledge. Core Competencies: • Logistics Management & Optimization • Cost Reduction & Budget Accountability • Safety Leadership & Compliance • Customer Service Excellence • Vendor Management • Team Coaching & Talent Development Work Environment: Combination of office and field settings. Occasional travel to other BFG and customer locations Why Join BFG Supply: Medical, Dental, Vision and Prescription Drug Insurance Coverage HSA or FSA with employer contribution Employer Provided Life Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Benefits FMLA, AD&D, Voluntary Benefits, EAP, Teladoc 401(k) Contribution Matching Program Paid Vacation and Holidays Our Commitment and Difference: BFG values ongoing improvement and growth, not only for our individual team, but also for our entire organization. We foster a culture that promotes learning, innovation, development, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in all aspects of our business. We are a fast-growing company, integrating the latest systems and technologies to streamline our internal operations and elevate the total customer experience. Founded in 1972, BFG Supply has a long history of serving the Green Industry including Professional Grower, Independent Lawn & Garden, Controlled Environment Agriculture and Hydroponic industries. As an established industry leader, BFG provides the highest levels of customer service, the broadest product range, and innovative technology solutions. BFG is a true single source supplier for all your Green Industry needs from watering tools and control solutions to multi-acre fully integrated professional greenhouse structures. In a world full of change you can take comfort in knowing that BFG Supply is focused on caring for your business needs. We look forward to providing the best customer service in the industry and supporting the growth of our customers. BFG Supply Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status or disability (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act*), or any other legally protected status, with respect to employment opportunities. E-Verify : We verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment in the United States.