Transportation Manager

Classifications: Full-Time, Salary starting at 75k, San Leandro, CA 94577, in person required 

Organization Mission and Summary: SOS Meals on Wheels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit committed to fostering the independence and dignity of older adults by reducing food insecurity and isolation, with daily nutritious meals, friendly visits and connection to support services. 

We produce and deliver over 500,000 meals annually for homebound seniors living in Oakland, Hayward, San Leandro, Castro Valley, San Lorenzo, Fremont, Newark and Union City. As advocates for senior citizens, our mission is to provide a nutritious meal delivered by a friendly face that also acts as a wellness check, allowing seniors to remain independent in their homes for as long as safely possible. 

Position Summary: The Transportation Manager oversees the daily logistical operations of the delivery fleet and driving team. Key focus areas include optimizing delivery routes between the cities of Oakland and Fremont; managing a team of 15–18 drivers; ensuring cold-chain integrity and food safety; maintaining the safety of 19 transport vehicles; and ensuring strict adherence to California DMV and DOT compliance standards. 

Accountability: The position will report to the Director of Operations. 

Essential Functions & Responsibilities 

1. Personnel Management & Mission Delivery 

  • Lead, mentor, and manage a team of 15–18 drivers, ensuring high standards of professional conduct and adherence to the "friendly face" wellness check protocol. 

  • Manage driver recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing training, specifically focusing on safe driving habits and senior-sensitive communication. 

  • Coordinate daily delivery schedules to ensure 2,000+ meals reach clients across the East Bay timely and safely. 

  • Administer the CA DMV Employer Pull Notice (EPN) program and maintain up-to-date Driver Qualification (DQ) files for all staff. 

2. Route Optimization & Data Analysis 

  • Strategically plan and optimize delivery routes to maximize fuel efficiency and reduce vehicle wear-and-tear using logistics software. 

  • Monitor and analyze vehicle and driving data to generate actionable insights and KPIs (e.g., cost-per-mile, on-time delivery rates). 

  • Collaborate with the Director of Operations on capital planning, providing data-driven recommendations for vehicle replacement and fleet expansion. 

3. Fleet Management & Regulatory Compliance 

  • Oversee the maintenance and repair of 19 transport vans, ensuring all units remain in compliance with California DMV regulations and insurance requirements. 

  • Maintain "BIT" (Basic Inspection of Terminals) program readiness and organized vehicle inspection folders for potential CHP audits. 

  • Develop and manage a Preventive Maintenance (PM) schedule to minimize service disruptions and manage relationships with external repair vendors and fuel providers. 

  • Act as the primary point of contact for accident investigations, insurance claims, and emergency roadside assistance. 

4. Food Safety & Cold Chain Integrity 

  • Ensure 100% compliance with food safety protocols, including the monitoring and logging of refrigerated units and temperatures during transit. 

  • Implement and oversee a rigorous vehicle sanitation schedule to ensure cargo areas meet health department standards for food transport. 

  • Partner with the Kitchen and Warehouse teams to ensure a seamless "Chain of Custody" from the packing room to the client's doorstep. 

 

Working Conditions 

The noise level in the work environment can be moderate to loud. This role involves considerable time in a warehouse/loading dock setting and time in the field conducting ride-alongs. There will be exposure to outdoor weather conditions, moving vehicles, and varying temperatures (including refrigerated van environments and commercial kitchens). Frequently move coolers and food product boxes weighing up to 50 pounds. 

Special Conditions of Employment 

  • Valid California Driver’s License and a clean DMV driving record (must meet insurance eligibility). 

  • COVID-19 vaccinated. 

  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. 

  • Ability to read, write, and speak English. 

  • You must pass a background check suitable for working with vulnerable populations. 

Employee Benefits 

  • Group health plan (employer pays 50% of qualifying premiums) with vision and dental available (employer pays 100% of premiums) after 30 days of employment. 

  • 80 hours of accrued paid sick leave, annually. 

  • 13 paid holidays + floating birthday holiday. 

  • EAP (Employee Assistance Program). 

  • Paid vacation accrual begins after 90 days, up to 2 weeks annually. 

  • Opportunity for growth in a positive and supportive work environment. 

Tessa Baxter