Operations Specialist (Management Trainee Program)

Description

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The Operations Specialist Management Trainee Program is designed to develop future frontline Operations Managers who will play a critical role in leading our teams and ensuring operational excellence. This program offers a unique opportunity to strengthen leadership capabilities, gain comprehensive industry knowledge, and advance your career within our organization.

Over the course of 12–18 months, participants will rotate through all major functions of WCN, including:

• Health and Safety – Developing a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, risk management, and proactive safety practices. You will learn how to foster a culture of safety, conduct field audits, lead safety briefings, and ensure that every employee returns home safely each day.

• TRUX Hauling System – Mastering WCN’s proprietary hauling system to improve routing efficiency, monitor performance, and leverage data for operational decision-making.

• Servant Leadership Culture and Management – Embracing WCN’s leadership philosophy by learning how to lead with empathy, empower frontline employees, and build trust across teams.

• Coaching and Performance Management – Gaining practical skills in coaching employees, addressing performance gaps, and supporting professional growth through constructive feedback and mentorship.

• Route Supervision & Dispatch – Managing daily operations, monitoring service reliability, and ensuring routes are executed safely and efficiently.

• Customer Service – Developing strategies to enhance customer satisfaction, resolve service issues effectively, and strengthen client relationships.

• Maintenance & Logistics – Coordinating fleet upkeep, resource allocation, and operational planning to maximize uptime and reduce costs.

• Routing & In-Cab Technology – Leveraging advanced technology to optimize logistics, support drivers in the field, and improve overall operational efficiency

• Accident/Injury Investigation – Supporting leadership in investigating workplace incidents, documenting findings, and contributing to corrective action plans that strengthen safety protocols.

• Facilitate Meetings and Presentation Preparation – Developing communication and presentation skills by leading team discussions, sharing updates, and creating impactful visual materials.

• Training Smith System – Becoming certified to train others in defensive driving techniques, reinforcing WCN’s commitment to safety on the road.

This is a hands-on, field-based program where most of the day is spent working directly with frontline employees. Trainees will gain practical experience in coaching, mentoring, and leading diverse teams while reinforcing the highest standards of safety and compliance.

By the end of the program, participants will be equipped to:

• Drive financial profitability through efficient resource and cost management

• Maximize operational performance by applying data-driven decision-making

• Enhance customer satisfaction through service excellence

• Lead with confidence, ensuring both people development and a strong safety-first culture

As an Operations Specialist you will play a critical role in supporting safe, efficient and customer-focused operations. Your responsibilities will include:

• Driver Oversight & Route Management – Monitor and track driver progress via two-way radio to ensure timely route completion; conduct in-cab driver observations; sequence and update routes in the TRUX system to maximize efficiency and accuracy.

• Safety & Compliance – Lead facility inspections and fleet walks; build and facilitate tailgate and monthly safety meetings; coach DriveCam events in alignment with the Smith System and company core values; approve site safety for the sales team; monitor driver hours (HOS) to ensure compliance and well-being.

• Operational Support – Assist with printing and distributing route sheets; ensure timely closure of routes for accurate billing; cover weigh scale duties as needed; provide coverage for internal positions and shifts during vacation or absenteeism.

• Employee Engagement & Development – Foster strong relationships built on trust, support employee engagement initiatives.

• Communication & Coordination – Maintain daily communication with dispatch, Operations Manager, Site Manager, and District Manager; serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external customers; notify employees and customers of schedule or service changes; liaise with internal teams to resolve service requirements, issues, or complaints.

• Data & Documentation Management – Build and maintain the ABC tracker; update and resolve issues in the TRUX system; maintain accurate files and documentation in compliance with company policy and internal controls.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU:

• Education & Experience – Graduate of a college, university, or trade school (e.g., SAIT), with prior summer job or transferrable work experience.

• Industry Background – 2–3 years of customer service or office administration experience in a transportation-related environment.

• Professional Communication – Pleasant demeanor over the phone, strong written and oral communication skills, and professional email etiquette.

• Technical Skills – Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Copilot and Microsoft Office, with the ability to learn new programs and leverage AI tools to improve workflow efficiency.

• Organizational Strengths – Excellent time management and prioritization skills to balance multiple responsibilities effectively.

• Analytical Ability – Critical and logical thinking skills to support sound decision-making.

• Must be able to pass all pre-employment requirements.

WHAT YOU’LL GET FROM US:

• Valuable Work Experience with Training & Professional Growth Opportunities – The true benefit of this position lies in the chance to gain hands-on experience, receive structured training, and build a foundation for long-term career development.

• Competitive Wages: $65-75k annually

• Retirement Plan with company match – let us help you save for your future.

• Comprehensive Benefits – Medical, Dental, Vision.

• Perks, perks, perks! Employee Assistance Program, Scholarship Opportunities for kids, Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

• Insurance Coverage – Life, Short-Term/Long-Term Disability.