Location: Flexible/Negotiable within the Midwest Energy territory

Job Summary (Overall Purpose of the Position)
The Assistant Fleet Manager serves as a transitional role designed to develop and prepare the individual for the position of Fleet Manager. The primary objective is to gain comprehensive knowledge of the fleet operations, including vehicle maintenance, procurement, safety compliance, and the development of sound fleet management practices. This role supports the Fleet Manager in daily operations and assumes managerial responsibilities in the Fleet Manager’s absence to ensure the seamless functioning of the fleet.

Job Duties - Responsibilities – Tasks

1. Assist in developing vehicle specifications in compliance with internal and external regulations (DOT, OSHA, ANSI) and company safety guidelines.
2. Participate in reviewing and revising vehicle specifications annually, ensuring adherence to standards.
3. Interface with external vendors and internal committees to gather best practices and ensure compliance with procurement specifications.
4. Prepare criteria and bid requests for equipment in accordance with company specifications, analyze bids and negotiate terms and conditions with selected vendors to achieve cost-effective vehicle & equipment procurement.
5. Contribute to the development of annual fleet budgets, including assisting with the preparation of 5-year vehicle and equipment replacement plans.
6. Participate in life cycle cost and trend analyses to assess vehicle performance and identify areas for process improvement.
7. Support the process of putting new vehicles into service, ensuring that specifications are met, and operators are trained.
8. Assist in managing vehicle repairs, warranty claims, and maintenance scheduling to maintain operational efficiency.
9. Help oversee periodic vehicle inspections, technology installations (e.g., AVL systems), and fuel card assignments.
10. Support the coordination of emergency vehicle repairs and the dispatch of spare vehicles or vendor equipment as needed.
11. Monitor fleet safety and compliance, working closely with safety and operations managers to enforce OSHA, DOT, ANSI and EPA regulations.
12. Assist in accident investigations involving fleet equipment and participate in root cause analyses.
13. Receive after-hours calls regarding vehicle breakdowns, accidents, or emergencies, and assist in coordinating appropriate responses.
14. Promote safe working habits and enforce all safety rules and regulations of Midwest Energy, Inc. Lead by example in safety compliance and take corrective action on safety violations, defective equipment, and any other practice that may adversely affect a safe working environment.
15. Stay informed on new developments, trends, best practices, and changes in fleet management, and make recommendations to enhance fleet operations.
16. Work closely with the Fleet Manager to develop internal and external working relationships for maximum effectiveness in serving Midwest Energy customers and communities. Ensure communication and exchange of information so as to present a positive corporate image, both internally and externally. Keep management informed of issues that might impact the work environment.

Education and Experience

1. Two-year college degree or technical degree or equivalent experience, with emphases in utility and/or construction equipment maintenance and operation.
2. Minimum of three years of experience in fleet management or vehicle maintenance, with a focus on utility or construction equipment preferred.
3. Demonstrated understanding of safety rules, regulations, and practices, including DOT, OSHA, and EPA regulations.

Key Competencies

1. Skilled in organizing, planning, and supporting fleet operations.
2. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
3. Proficiency in communication, both verbal and written, for collaboration with staff and external vendors.
4. Familiarity with vehicle maintenance practices, equipment lifecycle management, and cost control.
5. Demonstrated ability to organize and plan work and meet deadlines. Proficiency in establishing and achieving goals through the implementation of work plans and project management.
6. Ability to provide quality customer service and establish effective working relationships with Midwest Energy employees, consultants, vendors, subcontractors and other utility companies.
7. Demonstrated proficiency in verbal and written communication to correspond with community members, cross-functional teams, co-workers, and managers.
8. Demonstrated proficiency in training and developing employees across departmental lines to achieve maximum productivity, safety, and work performance.
9. Demonstrated computer skills and intermediate-level proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite.
10. Must hold and maintain a valid Kansas Commercial Driver’s License.
11. Must be CPR certified.

Posting Close Date: November 25, 2024

Equal Opportunity Employer