CDL A Driver (Overnight)

The primary responsibilities of a CDL A Driver (Overnight) at Downeast Cider include the safe transportation of products and raw materials between the Ciderhouse and offsite warehouse locations. This involves low touch/dock to dock transport of mostly palletized loads, maintaining daily logs for DOT compliance, and potentially unloading trailers. It's essential for drivers to have knowledge of DOT regulations, particularly as they pertain to alcohol beverages, while also being able to operate an ERP system related to loading and shipping products.

To qualify for the CDL A Driver (Overnight) position at Downeast Cider, candidates must possess a valid CDL-A, a non-expired medical card, and a clean MVR. It’s necessary to have no drug or alcohol violations in the past ten years and the ability to pass DOT physicals. Additionally, 6 months to 1 year of CDL A driving experience is required, along with the capability to lift 50 lbs and flexibility in scheduling for day or night shifts.

Downeast Cider offers an attractive benefits package for CDL A Drivers (Overnight). You will receive 16 PTO days in your first year, paid holidays, sick days, bereavement days, and paid parental leave. Additionally, the company provides a 401k with a match, health and dental insurance from day one, short-term disability, an annual PPE stipend, and even a cider allowance that adds a fun twist to the role.

CDL A Drivers at Downeast Cider can expect a supportive and engaging work environment. With a focus on teamwork, diversity, and individual growth, the company prides itself on being a welcoming space for all employees. The culture encourages collaboration and celebrates the differences that each member brings, ensuring that work is both enjoyable and fulfilling.

To prepare for the CDL A Driver (Overnight) interview at Downeast Cider, brush up on your knowledge of DOT regulations, understand the specifics of secure loading and unloading procedures, and be ready to discuss your previous driving experiences. Additionally, familiarity with the company's culture and values will help you articulate why you are a good fit for the team.

When answering this question, you should detail specific safe driving practices you follow, such as adhering to speed limits, conducting pre-trip inspections, and maintaining a proper distance from other vehicles. Highlight any relevant training or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to safety on the road.

Discuss your ability to stay calm under pressure and how you utilize problem-solving skills when faced with unexpected challenges. You can mention strategies such as planning alternate routes, communicating delays promptly, and adjusting your schedule or load to accommodate changes.

Share your knowledge of DOT regulations, specifically those that apply to the transportation of alcohol, including load security, hours of service limitations, and the documentation required for alcoholic beverages. Relating specific experiences or trainings can further bolster your answer.

Emphasize the importance of compliance as it pertains to safety, accountability, and legal requirements. Explain how accurate logs help ensure that you’re adhering to rest requirements and preventing fatigue, which ultimately contributes to the safety of all road users.

Provide a specific example where you had to adapt quickly to changes, whether that involved adjusting to a new route or switching from a day shift to an overnight schedule. Highlight your flexibility, proactive communication, and willingness to take on new challenges.

Talk about your experience with various types of transport vehicles, including any specific models you've driven. Additionally, mention your familiarity with trailer operations, maintenance practices, and keeping logs to track maintenance schedules.

Share your personal strategies for managing fatigue, such as adhering to scheduled breaks, maintaining hydration and nutrition, and practicing good sleep hygiene before shifts. Highlighting any relevant training in fatigue management can further strengthen your response.

Articulate how your values align with Downeast Cider's culture, the importance of teamwork, and the dedication to product quality. Discuss specific skills or experiences that make you uniquely qualified to contribute to their values and mission.

Detail a specific safety incident you experienced while driving, what actions you took to resolve it, and how you ensured safety moving forward. This demonstrates your ability to prioritize safety and learn from challenges.

Discuss your experience with any ERP systems you have used in the past, describing how you’ve leveraged those tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy in managing loads. If you haven't used an ERP system, express your willingness to learn and adapt.