Driver Trainee (CDL A Permit) at SYGMA - Danville, IL: Your Path to a Driving Career

Are you looking for a career that gets you on the road, provides excellent benefits, and offers opportunities for growth? SYGMA, a subsidiary of Sysco, is seeking motivated individuals to join our team as Driver Trainees in Danville, Illinois. This is an excellent opportunity to earn your CDL A permit and launch a fulfilling career in the transportation industry. This role offers comprehensive training and mentorship, preparing you to become a skilled and safe commercial driver.

Role Overview: Driver Trainee at SYGMA

As a Driver Trainee, you'll work alongside experienced drivers, assisting with deliveries to SYGMA customers while learning the ropes of the business. You'll gain hands-on experience in all aspects of the delivery process, from unloading product and navigating routes to providing exceptional customer service. This position is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to obtain your CDL A license and advance into a full-fledged driving role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the driver in unloading product at customer locations according to customer invoices and SYGMA delivery procedures.
• Develop and establish good relationships with customers by providing excellent, courteous service.
• Learn route on current bid.
• Assist in all aspects of route paperwork.
• Work safely by following SYGMA’s Preferred Work Methods.
• Attend CDL School when scheduled.
• Assist the driver in the pre-trip and coupling of equipment to ensure the vehicle is safe to operate.
• Provide assistance in routing with map reading and giving directions on route.
• Assist with delivery set up at the customer location.
• Assist driver in backing situations by getting out of the truck and watching for hazards.
• Other duties as assigned by Management.

A Day in the Life of a Driver Trainee

Your day as a Driver Trainee will be dynamic and engaging. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Early Start: Arrive at the SYGMA distribution center early to prepare for the day's deliveries.
• Pre-Trip Inspection: Assist the driver with a thorough pre-trip inspection of the vehicle to ensure it's safe and compliant with regulations.
• Route Navigation: Learn the designated route, utilizing map reading skills and directions to ensure timely and efficient deliveries.
• Customer Deliveries: Assist the driver in unloading product at customer locations, following specific instructions and maintaining a courteous demeanor.
• Paperwork Management: Assist with the completion of all necessary paperwork, including invoices and delivery records.
• Safety First: Adhere to all safety protocols and SYGMA's Preferred Work Methods to prevent accidents and injuries.
• CDL School: Attend scheduled CDL school sessions to gain the knowledge and skills required to pass the CDL A exam.
• Teamwork: Work collaboratively with the driver and other team members to ensure smooth and efficient operations.

Why Danville, Illinois?

Danville, Illinois, offers a great balance of small-town charm and convenient access to larger cities. Located in Vermilion County, Danville provides a family-friendly environment with affordable living costs and a strong sense of community. The city boasts a rich history, beautiful parks, and a variety of recreational activities. Danville's proximity to major transportation routes also makes it an ideal location for a career in the transportation industry.

Career Path: From Trainee to Driver and Beyond

The Driver Trainee position is a stepping stone to a long and rewarding career at SYGMA. Upon successful completion of the training program and obtaining your CDL A license, you can advance to a full-time Driver role. From there, you can further develop your skills and explore opportunities for advancement into roles such as Driver Trainer, Route Supervisor, or even Transportation Manager. Sysco is committed to promoting from within and providing employees with the resources they need to succeed.

Salary & Benefits: Investing in Your Future

While the specific compensation range for this role is $10.00 - $48.00/hour based on experience and other factors. Sysco also offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and financial security. Some of the benefits you can expect include:

• Comprehensive healthcare benefits (medical, dental, vision)
• Prescription drug coverage
• Health savings account (HSA)
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Holiday pay
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Employee stock purchase plan (ESPP)
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Training and development opportunities
• Career advancement opportunities
• Employee discount programs

Visit https://SyscoBenefits.com for detailed information on Sysco’s benefits program.

Sysco Culture: A Commitment to Excellence

Sysco is a global leader in foodservice distribution, and our success is driven by our commitment to excellence, integrity, and customer service. We foster a culture of teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement. At Sysco, you'll be part of a supportive and inclusive environment where your contributions are valued and your growth is encouraged.

How to Apply: Start Your Journey Today

If you're ready to embark on a rewarding career as a Driver Trainee at SYGMA, we encourage you to apply today! Visit our careers website to submit your application and learn more about this exciting opportunity.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

1. What are the requirements for the Driver Trainee position?

   You must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent, a valid driver’s license, and a CDL-A permit. You must also be able to read and write clearly in English and have the ability to lift up to 75 lbs occasionally.

2. What is the training program like?

   The training program includes classroom instruction, hands-on experience, and mentorship from experienced drivers. You'll learn about safety regulations, delivery procedures, customer service, and route navigation.

3. How long does it take to get my CDL A license?

   The time it takes to obtain your CDL A license varies depending on the training program and your individual progress. However, most trainees complete the program within a few months.

4. What are the opportunities for advancement?

   Sysco is committed to promoting from within. Upon obtaining your CDL A license, you can advance to a full-time Driver role and further explore opportunities in areas such as training, supervision, and management.

5. What is the work environment like?

   The work environment is both indoor and outdoor, subject to various roads, mechanical, and electrical hazards. Safety is a top priority at Sysco, and we provide our employees with the training and equipment they need to work safely.

6. What type of equipment will I be operating?

   As a Driver Trainee, you will be operating a two-wheeled dolly and a pallet jack. You will also be assisting the driver with the operation of a tractor-trailer unit.

7. Is prior experience in food distribution required?

   While prior experience in food distribution and frozen food handling is preferred, it is not required. We provide comprehensive training to all our Driver Trainees.

8. What are the physical demands of the job?

   The job requires medium to heavy physical exertion. You will spend a portion of your day sitting in a tractor-trailer unit, but you will also need to be able to climb into the trailer, lift 50 lb boxes frequently, and lift up to 75 lb boxes occasionally.

9. What kind of safety measures are in place?

   Sysco has comprehensive safety measures in place, including regular training, pre-trip inspections, and adherence to strict safety protocols. We are committed to providing a safe working environment for all our employees.

10. How does Sysco support employee growth and development?

    Sysco provides numerous opportunities for employee growth and development, including tuition reimbursement, training programs, and career advancement opportunities. We are invested in helping our employees reach their full potential.