Class A Route Driver - Req. ID: 3981

At Denali, we are more than the nation’s leading organic recycling company—we are sustainability innovators dedicated to replenishing the Earth by repurposing waste.

We transform organic materials into sustainable solutions that help preserve water quality, improve soil health, reduce reliance on landfills, and support farmers in building long-term resilience. With corporate offices in Texas and Arkansas, Denali operates nationwide, advancing environmental and agricultural progress on a meaningful scale.

Join us in creating a cleaner, more sustainable future. To learn more, visit  denalicorp.com .

Position Summary

Denali is seeking a dependable, safety-focused  Class A CDL Route Driver to operate a five-day retail collection route. The driver will safely collect and transport food waste and other organic materials while servicing approximately 15–25 customer locations per day .

This position operates Class A commercial vehicles equipped with 30- to 45-foot open-top end-dump trailers . Drivers must also operate an  electric pallet jack , maneuver collection containers, use a company-issued mobile device, complete required electronic documentation, and communicate with management daily.

Qualified candidates must be able to operate a  manual-transmission commercial vehicle , perform thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections, and physically crawl underneath trucks and trailers to inspect brakes, slack adjusters, and other safety components.

This is a  safety-sensitive position requiring a clear mind, sound judgment, and consistent attention to detail. Each employee is responsible for protecting their own safety as well as the safety of coworkers, customers, and the motoring public.

Schedule and Route Expectations

• Five-day retail route workweek.
• Some weekends are required.
• Flexible start times and overtime may be required based on business needs.
• Drivers may work up to 60 hours within seven consecutive days or 70 hours within eight consecutive days, in accordance with applicable Hours of Service regulations.
• Drivers must be flexible and willing to cover alternate routes, including interstate assignments, when operationally necessary.
• Routes average approximately 15–25 customer stops per day.
• Work is performed inside and outside the vehicle in all weather conditions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Vehicle and Route Operations

• Safely operate Class A commercial vehicles in compliance with company policies, DOT regulations, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
• Operate manual- and automatic-transmission commercial vehicles.
• Load, transport, and deliver food waste and other organic materials along assigned routes.
• Operate 30- to 45-foot open-top end-dump trailers throughout assigned service areas.
• Safely operate hydraulic end-dump systems during loading and unloading.
• Complete assigned retail routes averaging approximately 15–25 customer stops per day.
• Operate manual and electric pallet jacks when required.
• Push, pull, roll, and maneuver collection totes and containers.
• Remain flexible and available to cover alternate or interstate routes as business needs require.

Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance

• Perform complete DOT-compliant pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip inspections.
• Inspect critical equipment and safety components, including:
  • Brakes and slack adjusters.
  • Tires and wheels.
  • Lights and reflectors.
  • Air lines and air systems.
  • Hydraulic systems.
  • Suspension components.
  • Coupling devices.
  • Fluid levels.
  • Required emergency and safety equipment.
• Crawl underneath trucks and trailers to inspect brakes, slack adjusters, suspension components, air lines, and other safety-critical equipment.
• Report vehicle defects, equipment damage, maintenance concerns, and unsafe conditions immediately.
• Perform routine maintenance, minor repairs, and basic equipment troubleshooting using hand tools when appropriate and authorized.
• Maintain assigned trucks, trailers, containers, and other equipment in a clean, safe, organized, and professional condition.

Customer-Site Responsibilities

• Safely collect and transport food waste and other customer materials.
• Pressure-wash bins and collection containers when required.
• Clean spills and remove debris after servicing customer locations.
• Maintain a professional appearance and provide courteous, dependable service.
• Report contamination, damaged containers, access issues, or other customer-site concerns promptly.

Technology and Documentation

• Use company-issued mobile phones, tablets, and computers for communication, training, scheduling, navigation, route documentation, and expense reporting.
• Utilize Electronic Logging Devices and maintain accurate DOT and Hours of Service records.
• Complete service tickets, contamination reports, Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports, maintenance records, and other required documentation accurately and on time.
• Respond promptly to calls, messages, and electronic instructions while following safe-driving requirements.
• Be comfortable operating company vehicles equipped with inward- and outward-facing safety cameras.
• Understand that safety-camera footage may be used for incident review, safety coaching, compliance, and training purposes.

Communication and Safety

• Maintain open and professional communication with managers on a daily basis.
• Provide timely updates regarding route progress, delays, customer concerns, equipment issues, and safety matters.
• Communicate professionally with dispatch, customers, operations personnel, vendors, and fellow employees.
• Report accidents, injuries, spills, equipment damage, mechanical failures, and safety concerns immediately.
• Participate in weekly safety meetings, required company training, and operational briefings.
• Follow all company, DOT, OSHA, federal, state, and local safety requirements.
• Use all required personal protective equipment.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License.
• Current DOT Medical Card.
• Self-certified as a  Non-Excepted Interstate Driver .
• Ability to safely operate a manual-transmission commercial vehicle.
• Driving history that meets company and insurance requirements.
• Pre-Employment Screening Program record that meets company requirements.
• Stable employment history demonstrating safety, dependability, and reliability.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening, background check, Motor Vehicle Record review, and all DOT-required testing.
• Ability to meet all DOT physical requirements.
• Ability to perform complete DOT-compliant pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
• Ability to crawl underneath trucks and trailers to inspect brakes, slack adjusters, air systems, and suspension components.
• Ability to safely operate an electric pallet jack.
• Ability to use a smartphone, tablet, mobile applications, and Electronic Logging Device.
• Willingness to operate vehicles equipped with inward- and outward-facing safety cameras.
• Ability and willingness to communicate with managers daily.
• Ability to work a five-day retail route schedule, including weekends when required.

Candidates must meet one of the following age and experience requirements:

• At least 23 years old with two years of verifiable Class A tractor-trailer experience; or
• At least 21 years old with one year of verifiable tractor-trailer experience and graduation from an accredited truck-driving school; or
• At least 21 years old with one year of qualifying military commercial-driving experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous retail or multi-stop route-driving experience.
• Previous waste, recycling, agriculture, transportation, or environmental-services experience.
• Experience operating open-top end-dump trailers.
• Experience hauling food waste, agricultural products, recycling materials, or bulk commodities.
• Experience with hydraulic trailer systems.
• Experience operating manual and electric pallet jacks.
• Familiarity with Electronic Logging Devices and mobile route applications.
• Strong customer-service and communication skills.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience performing basic equipment repairs.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Safe operation of manual- and automatic-transmission commercial vehicles.
• Strong time-management and route-planning skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent attendance, dependability, and communication.
• Basic mechanical and equipment-troubleshooting abilities.
• Proficiency with mobile phones, tablets, computers, and electronic documentation.
• Ability to work safely around hydraulic equipment and moving machinery.
• Ability to follow verbal, written, and electronic instructions.
• Commitment to maintaining daily communication with management.

Physical Requirements

This is a physically demanding position requiring drivers to work both inside and outside the truck throughout the workday. Candidates must be able to:

• Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull up to 70 pounds.
• Lift container lids weighing up to 75 pounds.
• Tilt, maneuver, and roll 75-gallon totes weighing up to 250 pounds.
• Pull or roll containers weighing up to 300 pounds.
• Operate manual and electric pallet jacks safely.
• Frequently bend, squat, kneel, stoop, climb, twist, shovel, and reach overhead.
• Enter and exit commercial vehicles numerous times during each shift.
• Crawl underneath trucks and trailers to inspect slack adjusters, brakes, air lines, suspension components, and other safety equipment.
• Safely operate hydraulic end-dump trailer systems.
• Perform repetitive physical tasks while maintaining safe work practices.
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, wind, and humidity.
• Tolerate exposure to food waste, farm environments, dust, mud, strong odors, insects, and other conditions associated with organic recycling operations.
• Work safely around moving equipment, heavy machinery, hydraulic systems, and commercial vehicles.

Why You’ll Love Working at Denali- Benefits & Perks

At Denali, the work we do begins and ends with you – our employees. That's why we strive to ELEVATE you to be your best, both at work and at home. Our benefits aren’t just about compensation; they’re part of a broader commitment to helping you thrive in all aspects of life. Here’s how we live out our values every day:

E – Employee: At Denali, we believe in offering competitive compensation packages that include not only great benefits but also a strong focus on safety, flexibility, and rewards and recognition. You are the backbone of our success, and we make sure you’re valued every step of the way.L – Learning: We’re committed to your growth and development. Our Ascend Employee Development Program and access to over 6,000 professional courses via our Learning Management System empower you to climb higher in your career – all at no cost to you.E – Environment: Our employees deserve a clean Earth. We’re dedicated to doing our part in keeping waste out of landfills, so you can be proud of the work we do together to make a positive environmental impact.V – Valued: At Denali, we take pride in creating a culture of care. With resources that support your well-being, volunteerism opportunities, and a commitment to safe working conditions and inclusivity, you’ll always feel like you belong here.A – Advancement: We believe in succession planning and providing opportunities for advancement. We want you to grow, and we’ll be right there with you, supporting your career every step of the way.T – Together: We’re stronger when we work together. At Denali, you’ll have opportunities to give and receive support not just within the workplace, but within our broader community. Our team is united, and we celebrate the value of working and succeeding as one.E – Employees: You are the heart of Denali. We believe our employees deserve the very best. This is why we offer an array of benefits that support your overall well-being, from health coverage to work-life balance, because when you succeed, we all succeed.

Our Benefits Package Includes:

Comprehensive Medical: Our self-insured medical plans are designed with your health in mind, offering competitive options including copay and HSA plans so you can choose what best suit your health needs.Dental & Vision: Keep your smile bright and your vision clear with full coverage for you and your family.Generous 401(k) Match: We’re here for your long-term future – we offer a generous 401(k) match of up to 4%, helping you build the foundation for tomorrow.Company-Paid Disability & Life Insurance: We’ve got you covered with company-paid Long-Term and Short-Term Disability, as well as AD&D and Life Insurance, giving you peace of mind knowing you’re protected.Voluntary Life for Employees & Family: Customize additional coverage for you and your loved ones with our voluntary life insurance options.Health Savings Plan: Save on medical expenses with a Health Savings Plan designed for your needs.Paid Time Off (PTO) & Sick Time: We value your well-being. Take time for yourself, your family, and personal matters with generous PTO and Sick Time, including family leave.9 Paid Holidays: Enjoy a well-rounded work-life balance with 9 paid holidays throughout the year.Paid Weekly: We believe in rewarding hard work consistently, which is why we offer weekly pay so you can stay on top of your financial goals.Professional Development: Ascend in your career with free access to thousands of courses that allow you to grow and develop professionally.Employee Assistance Program: Life can be challenging at times, and we’re here to support you with our confidential Employee Assistance Program that offers counseling and resources for a variety of personal and professional needs.Wellness Program: At Denali, we believe that well-being goes beyond health coverage. Our Wellness Program offers resources to keep you mentally, physically, and emotionally balanced as you climb higher in both life and career.

We want you to feel valued, supported, and equipped for success – because when you thrive, we all thrive. So, come for benefits. Stay for the culture. We can’t wait to see you reach new heights with us at Denali.

 

Apply to join our team today!

 

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy: It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities for all employees. Accordingly, the Company will not engage in any form of employment discrimination based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. The Company hereby affirms its desire to maintain a work environment for all employees that is free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination.

Compensation details: 26-28 Hourly Wage

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