Description

Live Haul Manager – Job Description 

GENERAL SUMMARY 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 

Operational Oversight 

• Oversee all Live Haul activities, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient execution of daily transportation operations.
• Coordinate and approve load pickup and delivery schedules to meet plant requirements and grower expectations.
• Optimize route planning to maximize driver efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain required service levels.
• Monitor and manage daily DOA and shrink metrics; implement corrective actions when performance falls below expectations.
• Oversee repair and maintenance of Live Haul sheds, cages, trailers, and truck shop operations to maintain fleet readiness.

Leadership & Staff Management 

• Directly supervise Live Haul Supervisors, drivers, master scalers, and mechanics.
• Manage staffing levels, including interviewing, hiring, evaluating performance, coaching, and disciplinary actions.
• Provide guidance and support to supervisors to ensure consistent enforcement of company policies and procedures.
• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and teamwork across the Live Haul department.

Communication & Coordination 

• Serve as the primary point of contact between Live Haul, Plant Management, Growers, Feed Mill, and Live Operations.
• Communicate daily operational needs, delays, concerns, or issues to internal stakeholders and supervisors.
• Maintain open communication channels with growers regarding scheduling, flock status, and pickup timing.
• Report operational challenges, equipment issues, or personnel concerns to Complex Management as needed.

Compliance & Safety 

• Ensure all employees follow company policies, safety rules, and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct safety audits, ensure proper use of PPE, and enforce corrective actions when necessary.
• Maintain compliance with DOT, OSHA, and animal welfare guidelines.

Strategic & Administrative Duties 

• Track and report on key operational KPIs (DOA, shrink, miles per load, shift utilization, equipment downtime).
• Assist in budgeting for labor, maintenance, and fleet needs.
• Develop and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Support corporate and complex-level initiatives related to Live Operations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Responsible for the full direction, coordination, and evaluation of the Live Haul department.
• Supervise Live Haul Supervisors, drivers, master scalers, contractors and maintenance staff.
• Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with company policies and applicable laws, including hiring, training, performance evaluation, scheduling, rewards/recognition, and corrective action.

QUALIFICATIONS 

Education & Experience 

• Required: High school diploma or GED.
• Preferred: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Business, Operations Management, or related field.
• Required: Previous experience in Live Haul, transportation, logistics, or poultry/live operations.
• Preferred: Prior management or supervisory experience in a poultry or agricultural environment.

Skills & Abilities 

• Strong understanding of transportation logistics and fleet operations.
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strong mathematical and analytical abilities (weights, volumes, distances).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

• Regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands to handle or feel.
• Frequently required to reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must be able to lift and move at least 50 lbs and work at heights (ladders).

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

• Exposure to heat, cold, moisture, odors, animal dander, and outdoor conditions.
• Routine exposure to soiled materials and cleaning chemical substances.
• Fast-paced operational environment with frequent interaction across departments.

• Schedule: Monday – Friday with occasional weekends; 
• Benefits: Vision, Medical, and Dental coverage begin after 60 days of employment; 
• Paid Time Off: Sick leave, vacation, company observed holidays or, any other statutorily required paid leave; 
• 401(k): Company match begins after the first year of service and follows the company vesting schedule; 
• Career Development: Our company is dedicated to supporting professional growth by offering continuous learning opportunities and a focus on career growth through various learning and development programs; and 
• Better Futures