TMC Transportation is the nation’s largest employee-owned, open deck transportation company. Founded in 1972, and headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, TMC provides expert transportation services and supply-chain management solutions throughout the 48 contiguous states. If you’re seeking a rewarding career at a dynamic company built on integrity, innovation and dedication to quality and customer service, then join us in our Destination of Excellence.
TMC Offers:
- Competitive Salary
- Comprehensive Benefit Package
- 401(k) Plan
- Employee Ownership - ESOP!
- Generous Vacation
PRIMARY FUNCTION
The Vice President of Safety provides enterprise-wide strategic leadership for the Company’s safety programs, including the development and enforcement of safety policies, procedures, and guidelines; ensuring compliance with DOT/FMCSA, OSHA, and applicable hazardous materials regulations; proactively identifying and mitigating safety risks; and overseeing training and safety initiatives. This role is accountable for reducing accidents, injuries, and claims while fostering a strong safety culture across the organization.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide strategic direction for the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of company safety policies, procedures, and guidelines.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local transportation, safety, and hazardous materials regulations, including DOT, FMCSA, OSHA, and HM requirements.
- Stay current on regulatory changes and assess organizational impact, implementing updates as necessary.
- Oversee the development and delivery of safety training programs and meetings for drivers, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
- Manage safety-related vendor contracts and external partnerships.
- Analyze safety, operational, and financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
- Ensure accurate maintenance of driver safety records, incident documentation, training records, and compliance files.
- Direct regular risk assessments, driver audits, and safety reviews to identify hazards and recommend corrective actions.
- Leverage vehicle cameras, telematics, CSA data, and accident investigations to drive preventive and corrective measures.
- Develop and maintain a multi-year roadmap to scale safety programs in alignment with company growth.
- Build strong relationships with executive leadership and operational teams; prepare and present safety performance reports and recommendations.
- Travel as required, including occasional last-minute travel to support on-scene accident investigations.
- Coordinate accident and incident investigations in partnership with Risk Management and oversee the implementation of corrective actions.
- Ensure timely maintenance of hazardous materials permits, fleet motor vehicle licensing, and operating permits.
- Collaborate with Driver Recruiting and Training to support selection and onboarding of drivers and independent contractors.
- Provide oversight of all DOT-mandated and company drug and alcohol testing programs, including compliance with FMCSA Clearinghouse requirements.
- Participate in and advise on disciplinary actions related to safety violations in coordination with Human Resources.
- Monitor CSA scores and safety metrics to drive continuous improvement.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide leadership and direction to Safety Managers and the Logs & Permits departments. Responsibilities include workforce planning, hiring, training, performance management, coaching, discipline, and employee development, in compliance with company policies and applicable laws.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE
- Minimum of 10 years of transportation or logistics safety experience, including at least 8 years in a leadership or management role.
- Demonstrated expertise in DOT/FMCSA, OSHA, and hazardous materials compliance.
- Strong strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and safety/telematics systems.
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities.
- Results-oriented leader with a continuous improvement mindset.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical demands described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with applicable laws.
- Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods.
- Ability to travel as required, including overnight and short-notice travel.
