Job Description

Job Title: DOT Compliance Manager

Status: Exempt

Reports to: COO / Safety & HR Leadership

Role Purpose

The DOT Compliance Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of federal, state, and internal compliance related to drivers, vehicles, and transportation operations. This role ensures full adherence to FMCSA guidelines, DOT regulations, and company policies. The position requires strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to enforce compliance standards in a professional and constructive manner.

Key Responsibilities

Driver Qualification & Monitoring

● Maintain and monitor all Driver Qualification (DQ) files, ensuring accuracy and completeness (CDL, medical certificates, MVRs, background checks, etc.).
● Track expiration dates and proactively notify staff and drivers when renewals are due.
● Ensure corrective actions are taken promptly for non-compliance issues.
● Conduct regular audits of driver records for accuracy and compliance.

Hours of Service & Safety Monitoring

● Oversee Hours of Service (HOS) compliance through electronic logging device (ELD) systems.
● Monitor for violations, trends, and potential risks; provide coaching and corrective actions.
● Act as the point of contact for roadside inspections, DOT audits, and safety reviews.

Fleet & Vehicle Compliance

● Maintain accurate vehicle maintenance files in compliance with FMCSA requirements (inspection reports, repair logs, DVIRs).
● Ensure IRP (International Registration Plan) and IFTA (International Fuel Tax Agreement) filings are accurate and timely.
● Coordinate with Maintenance and Dispatch to track and repair out-of-service vehicles.

Drug & Alcohol Program Management

● Administer and monitor compliance with DOT-required drug and alcohol policies.
● Coordinate and track all required testing (pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up).
● Manage documentation of refusals, positives, and completion of required SAP programs.
● Provide supervisor training on recognizing reasonable suspicion and proper reporting protocols.
● Serve as the primary contact for auditors regarding drug & alcohol testing compliance.

Compliance Oversight & Training

● Stay current on FMCSA, DOT, and state-level regulatory changes and communicate updates to leadership and staff.
● Assist in developing and delivering compliance training programs for drivers and employees.
● Act as a liaison during compliance audits, ensuring timely submission of required documentation.
● Partner with HR and Safety to manage non-compliance incidents, corrective actions, and progressive discipline as needed.

Requirements

● Minimum 3 years of experience in DOT/FMCSA compliance, fleet operations, or a related field.
● Strong knowledge of FMCSA, DOT, IFTA, IRP, and Hours of Service regulations.
● Experience administering drug & alcohol programs (randoms, post-accident, refusals, SAP process).
● Familiarity with drug/alcohol testing vendors and clearinghouse requirements.
● Experience managing driver files, HOS monitoring, and vehicle maintenance records.
● Proficiency with compliance platforms and ELD systems.
● Highly organized and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
● Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work with drivers, staff, and regulatory agencies.
● Ability to handle confidential information and sensitive compliance issues.

Working Conditions

Office-based role with frequent interaction with drivers, HR, dispatch, and maintenance teams. Occasional field visits may be required for inspections, audits, or driver coaching. Standard Monday–Friday schedule with flexibility to address urgent compliance needs.

Total Compensation Package

Benefits may include:

● Medical, Dental & Vision insurance options
● Annual reimbursements for uniforms, footwear, wellness, and professional needs
● Paid time off with accrual increases based on tenure
● Health and wellness incentives such as gym memberships, flu shots, and smoking cessation programs
● Professional development and ongoing training opportunities

Growth Opportunities

This role offers expanded responsibility for company-wide safety and compliance programs. Advancement opportunities may include Director of Compliance, Safety Manager, or Operations leadership roles, along with ongoing professional development through DOT/FMCSA training and certifications.