Trailer Inspector

At Ole, our mission is to produce the finest Authentic Mexican inspired products with an unwavering commitment to quality and freshness. We believe that holding a seat at your dinner table is the ultimate compliment, and we strive to help families create wholesome, fun, and authentic eating experiences.

The DC Trailer Inspector is responsible for conducting thorough pre-inspections of inbound and/or outbound trailers before they are assigned to a dock . This role ensures trailers are safe, clean, odor-free, pest-free, and free of damage that could impact product integrity, associate safety, or facility standards. The Trailer Inspector documents all findings on a pre-inspection form for warehouse associates and operations teams to review prior to unloading/loading.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform pre-inspections of trailers prior to dock assignment to confirm readiness for loading/unloading.
• Access trailer interiors safely by climbing in and out using a provided compatible ladder and following site safety procedures.
• Inspect interior and exterior trailer conditions for:
  • Visible damage , dents, cracks, or structural issues
  • Holes , gaps, or openings around trailer walls, floor, roof, doors, and seals
  • Odors (e.g., foul smells, chemical smells, spoilage, smoke, etc.)
  • Signs of pests (insects/rodents), droppings, nests, or contamination
• Verify trailer cleanliness; clean and sweep out the trailer as needed to meet warehouse and product standards.
• Ensure trailer condition complies with DC operational requirements before releasing it for dock placement.
• Document all inspection findings accurately and completely on the designated Pre-Inspection Form , including:
  • Trailer ID/number, carrier, time/date, inspector name
  • Pass/fail assessment and detailed notes
  • Photos (if required by site policy)
  • Corrective actions taken (sweeping/cleaning) or issues escalated
• Communicate inspection status to operations (yard, receiving, shipping) to support efficient dock assignment and workflow.
• Escalate unsafe or non-compliant conditions immediately to leadership (e.g., severe damage, contamination, strong odors, pest activity) and follow quarantine/hold procedures as directed.
• Maintain inspection supplies and area organization (brooms, dustpans, cleaning materials, PPE, forms, ladder).

Required Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow inspection checklists consistently.
• Basic documentation skills and ability to write clear, accurate notes.
• Comfortable working around trailers, yard equipment, and dock areas.
• Ability to work independently while coordinating with warehouse and yard teams.
• Commitment to safety, cleanliness, and quality standards.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to climb in and out of trailers repeatedly using a ladder and maintain 3-point contact.
• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods and work in warehouse/yard environments.
• Ability to bend, kneel, reach, and lift/carry typical cleaning/inspection tools and supplies.
• Comfortable working in varying trailer conditions (temperature changes, confined spaces, and noise typical of DC operations).

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred; can be adjusted based on site needs).
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and safety procedures.

Preferred

• Prior experience in warehouse operations, receiving, shipping, yard, quality, or equipment inspection roles.
• Familiarity with basic sanitation/cleanliness standards in a distribution environment.

Schedule & Environment

• Works in and around dock and yard operations , including active trailer traffic and warehouse equipment.
• Schedule may include nights/weekends/holidays depending on DC operation needs.

Success Metrics (Examples)

• Percentage of trailers inspected prior to dock assignment
• Accuracy/completeness of inspection documentation
• Reduction in dock delays due to trailer readiness issues
• Improved trailer cleanliness and reduction of pest/odor-related escalations