Flatbed Lead

About the Role

The Flatbed Lead is responsible for the safe, accurate, and efficient handling and securement of flatbed freight. This hands‑on role serves as the primary trainer for new hires learning proper flatbed loading, weight distribution, blocking, bracing, strapping, and freight‑securement techniques. The Flatbed Lead reinforces safe work practices, verifies that freight is properly secured before release, and serves as the designated back‑up to the Flatbed Supervisor when needed.

Responsibilities

• Flatbed Freight Handling & Securement
  • Load and unload flatbed freight safely and efficiently.
  • Plan and position freight based on size, weight, dimensions, balance, axle‑weight considerations, delivery sequence, and securement requirements.
  • Inspect freight before loading and identify special handling, blocking, bracing, tarping, or securement needs.
  • Select and properly use straps, chains, binders, edge protection, dunnage, blocking, bracing, tarps, and other securement materials.
  • Apply proper tie‑down and securement techniques to prevent shifting, tipping, sliding, or damage during transit.
  • Complete a final securement inspection before a flatbed load is released.
  • Identify and correct unsafe loading or securement conditions immediately.
  • Verify flatbed freight against work orders, manifests, and shipping documentation.
  • Accurately record freight quantities, exceptions, damage, and securement details as required.
• New Hire Training & Technique Development
  • Train new hires on safe flatbed loading, unloading, and freight‑securement procedures.
  • Demonstrate proper use, inspection, placement, and tensioning of straps, chains, binders, edge protection, blocking, bracing, dunnage, and tarps.
  • Provide hands‑on instruction in load planning, weight distribution, balance, freight placement, and securement selection.
  • Explain hazards associated with improperly secured freight and reinforce stop‑work expectations when a load is unsafe.
  • Observe new hires performing flatbed tasks and provide immediate coaching and correction until proper techniques are consistently demonstrated.
  • Use established training materials, checklists, and procedures to support consistent instruction.
  • Document completed training and communicate additional training needs or safety concerns to the Flatbed Supervisor.
  • Serve as an ongoing technical resource for employees performing flatbed freight work.
• Flatbed Safety, Equipment & Work Area
  • Inspect securement equipment before use and remove damaged or defective equipment from service.
  • Operate forklifts and other approved equipment used to position flatbed freight.
  • Maintain flatbed securement supplies in an organized, clean, and serviceable condition.
  • Maintain a clean and safe flatbed loading and staging area.
  • Consistently follow all safety policies, procedures, work instructions, and required personal protective equipment practices.
  • Report freight damage, equipment concerns, near misses, and unsafe conditions promptly.
• Back‑Up to the Flatbed Supervisor
  • Serve as the designated back‑up to the Flatbed Supervisor during absences or when additional operational coverage is needed.
  • Help coordinate daily flatbed priorities, load sequencing, staffing assignments, and communication with drivers and dispatch.
  • Answer technical questions and provide direction related to flatbed loading and freight securement.
  • Escalate significant safety, service, equipment, staffing, or freight issues to the Driver & Dispatch Manager.
  • Perform other flatbed‑related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Advanced knowledge of flatbed loading, blocking, bracing, tie‑down, tarping, and freight‑securement techniques.
• Ability to select the correct securement method and materials for varying freight sizes, weights, shapes, and load configurations.
• Strong spatial awareness, load‑planning, weight‑distribution, and balance skills.
• Ability to clearly demonstrate technical tasks and train employees through hands‑on instruction.
• Ability to observe work, identify unsafe techniques, and provide direct, respectful coaching.
• Strong judgment and decision‑making skills with the confidence to stop unsafe work.
• Effective English communication skills, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
• Ability to read work orders, manifests, labels, and flatbed‑related documentation.
• Ability to remain focused and accurate in a fast‑paced outdoor freight environment.
• Ability to use a radio and telephone effectively.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Demonstrated flatbed freight loading and securement experience required.
• Forklift Certification (required).
• Hazardous Materials Certification (required).
• Extra credit for experience training or coaching employees in flatbed freight techniques.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance and supplemental life insurance.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance.
• Emergency childcare assistance.
• Death and dismemberment insurance.
• Prepaid legal services.
• Adoption assistance.
• 401(k) and Roth retirement plan contributions with employer matching.
• Eight paid holidays per year.
• Tiered paid time‑off benefits.