Regional DOT & Safety Trainer at GFL Environmental in Peoria, IL

Job description

The Regional Safety & Driver Trainer plays a critical role in promoting a strong safety culture and reducing accidents and injuries across the assigned region. This position is responsible for facilitating new hire orientations—acclimating employees to company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and regulatory standards—as well as conducting hands-on field travel for site compliance, safety snapshots, and high-risk driver observations. Working closely with operations and leadership, the Safety Trainer assesses driver skills, delivers targeted coaching, and supports continuous safety improvement across all facilities in the region. Pay: $70-80k annually Travel-Based (50% Peoria, IL | 50% Horicon, WI) A company vehicle will be provided for business-related travel. Benefits: • 15 days of paid time off • Competitive medical, dental, and vision plan options • Health Savings Account with employer match option • Paid Parental Leave • 401(k) with an employer match up to 4% • Supplemental health plans through Unum • Employer paid basic life insurance • Employee paid short-term disability option • Employer-paid long-term disability • Mental health support through Employee Assistance Program • 7 paid holidays annually We are seeking a DOT & Safety Trainer to lead our 4-day onboarding and safety training program for all incoming personnel, primarily CDL professional drivers. In this role, you will split your time evenly between our facilities in Peoria, IL and Horicon, WI, spending one week in Peoria and the following week in Horicon. You will be responsible for ensuring all new hires complete mandatory safety compliance, FMCSA/DOT regulatory orientation, and hands-on operational training before hitting the road. Key Responsibilities Facilitate classroom and in-cab orientation for new hires, covering company safety policies, OSHA standards, DOT regulations, and operational procedures. Determine appropriate instructional methods and assist in developing engaging, effective training materials. Provide continuous support, mentorship, and guidance to both new and seasoned drivers. Travel throughout the assigned region to conduct regular field visits and site compliance checks. Perform site "snapshots" evaluating facility housekeeping, workplace hazard controls, and regulatory adherence. Conduct driver skill assessments (pre-hire and post-hire) and behavior assessments (in-cab and remote observation). Partner with regional leadership to identify high-risk drivers and execute structured remedial training and targeted coaching. Conduct post-incident training and root-cause analysis support to prevent repeat occurrences and lower overall accident/injury rates. Help implement new safety initiatives, driver recognition programs, and process enhancements across the region. Ensure driver files comply with company standards and DOT regulations. Attend required regional and corporate safety meetings, providing field insight and data-driven recommendations. Perform additional safety and operational support tasks as assigned by management. Experience & Certifications Prior training experience preferred but not required Experience as a commercial driver trainer preferred. Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Air Brake Endorsement, or willingness to obtain. Knowledge & Skills Working knowledge of OSHA and DOT regulations is preferred but not required. Ability to multi task and manage multiple projects Written and verbal communication skills; ability to influence, coach, and build rapport across all levels of the organization. Strong analytical skills with a hands-on, "can-do" attitude, self-motivated to work at a fast pace under dynamic schedule constraints. Experience in the waste management or environmental services industry is highly desirable. Travel: Up to 50–60% regional travel to various sites, and transfer facilities. Mix of classroom/office settings, commercial vehicle cabs, and active operational job sites requiring adherence to standard