The Driver Assistant plays a critical role in ensuring the seamless execution of logistics operations for courier services specializing in the transportation of biological samples, medical kits, MedTech supplies, and other life sciences-related shipments. This position is responsible for providing logistical and administrative support to drivers, coordinating pick-up and delivery schedules, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations and operational standards. Provides logistical and administrative support for drivers.
Job Purpose
General Duties:
- Communicate effectively with stakeholders to confirm schedules, locations, and special instructions.
- Inspect cargo upon receipt to verify its condition.
- Load, transport, and deliver biological and general cargo safely and on time.
- Prepare and pack biological shipments as required at both the airport and office.
- Keep vehicles in optimal condition, performing daily logbook updates and necessary maintenance.
- Assist in loading and unloading shipments when required.
- Understand and adhere to shipment deadlines.
- Maintain vehicle cleanliness, conduct regular inspections, refuel, and perform minor repairs as needed.
- Accurately document transportation activities, including mileage, inspections, and incidents.
- Report any accidents, delays, or issues encountered during transport.
- Comply with all transportation regulations, policies, and procedures set by regulatory agencies.
Responsibilities:
- Driver Coordination: Assist drivers by confirming pick-up and drop-off schedules, locations, and any special instructions. Ensure they have all necessary documentation and information for smooth deliveries.
- Airport Operations Support: Facilitate airline drop-offs and retrievals by preparing necessary paperwork, tracking shipment statuses, and providing real-time updates. Assist in navigating airline processes to ensure timely shipment handling.
- Consolidation & Labeling: Organize and prepare shipping labels, assemble consolidator boxes, and verify documentation for outbound shipments.
- Cold Chain Management: Provide support for shipments requiring temperature control, including dry ice shipments and gel packs conditioned at 2-8°C and 15-25°C. Ensure proper handling and re-icing of shipments in accordance with service SOPs.
- Re-Icing & Packaging Support: Assist in the preparation and maintenance of temperature-controlled shipments, including gel pack replacement and repackaging as needed.
- Compliance & Confidentiality: Ensure adherence to TSA and airport regulations while maintaining the confidentiality of shipments and client information.
- Vehicle & Equipment Support: Assist with loading and unloading shipments when necessary, particularly for packages exceeding 50 lbs. Ensure vehicles are equipped with the necessary supplies for efficient operations.
- Record-Keeping & Reporting: Maintain accurate records of transportation activities, including mileage logs, vehicle inspections, and incident reports. Report any transportation-related issues or delays promptly.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all transportation activities align with company policies and relevant regulatory requirements.
Qualifications & Skills Required:
- Basic understanding of cold chain logistics, biohazard handling, and regulatory compliance for biological and medical shipments.
- Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
- The ability to work under pressure.
- Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays if needed.
- Ability to recognize and address shipment-related issues.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
- Valid driver’s license required (CDL not required).
- Bilingual in English & Spanish preferred.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Clean driving record.
- Familiarity with scanners, barcodes, and tracking systems is a plus.
- Ability to lift packages up to approximately 50 lbs.
- Willingness to adapt to changing schedules.
- Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in documentation and compliance with procedures.
- Must be able to operate cargo vans, small trucks (up to 24’), and pick-up trucks, as needed, to support local and regional deliveries.
Work Setting
- Primarily operates at airports or in urban and suburban areas, delivering packages and goods to residential and commercial locations.
- Prepares shipments at the airport before dispatch.
- Works in locations such as loading docks, cargo warehouses, and aircraft loading areas.
- Must be able to assist with loading and unloading shipments over 50 lbs.
- May transport cargo to and from air cargo facilities, including freight terminals and cargo ramps.
- Occasional domestic or international travel may be required for industry events or emergency response situations.
- The role may involve working outside standard business hours to meet client needs or handle urgent issues.
