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This position has closed. Werner Enterprises removed this listing from their careers page on Oct 6, 2026. The interview prep below is still useful, and there are similar open roles at the bottom of this page.

Safety Specialist

Werner Enterprises · Joliet, IL · $59,935–$79,914 a year · Full time

Posted Sep 21, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 5, 2026

Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a time you had to give someone bad news about their job.

What they are checking: Whether they can deliver difficult outcomes respectfully and clearly.

What would you do

A driver gets a DOT violation for hours of service. How do you counsel them?

What they are checking: Whether they correct the behavior firmly while understanding the pressures that lead drivers to break log rules.

You get a call at 2 a.m. while on call about a driver involved in a crash. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they can stay calm, check on people first and follow the company's post-accident process.

How would you make simulator training useful for an experienced driver who thinks they don't need it?

What they are checking: Whether they can earn respect from veteran drivers and make training relevant to them.

A terminal manager wants a driver back on the road quickly, but you have safety concerns. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they hold safety standards under operational pressure and explain their reasoning.

About the work

Walk me through how you'd conduct an accident review with a driver.

What they are checking: Whether they gather facts fairly, determine preventability and turn the review into training, not just discipline.

What do you look for on a road test to decide whether a driver is safe?

What they are checking: Whether they know concrete skills like space management, mirror use, backing and pre-trip habits.

Walk me through a pre-trip inspection on a tractor-trailer.

What they are checking: Whether they actually know the inspection, since the posting requires it and drivers will test their credibility.

What do you know about DOT drug and breath alcohol testing procedures?

What they are checking: Whether they understand chain of custody and testing rules, where a procedural error can invalidate a result.

How comfortable are you with AS-400 or similar older database systems?

What they are checking: Whether they can work in the systems the posting names without slowing down the department.

Practice this interview out loud.

Offer builds a real interview for this exact role at Werner Enterprises from your resume and this job description, asks the questions one at a time, and tells you what landed. The first one is free.

Practice this out loud

The full job description

As published by Werner Enterprises.

The Safety Specialist conducts all safety functions to ensure compliance with Company, Federal, State , and local regulations. This role is dedicated to addressing driver safety needs efficiently and professionally. Safety Specialists are responsible for conducting all safety-related functions in compliance with Company, Federal, State , and local regulations. This includes training, driver evaluations, accident reviews, and providing 24-hour on-call support as needed. Essential Job Functions • Conduct all Safety Department training courses, including simulator training. • Perform essential safety functions, such as accident reviews, annual reviews, remedial log training, and simulator sessions. • Administer drug and Breath Alcohol Tests (BAT). • Provide 24-hour on-call support as assigned by the Terminal Manager. • Counsel drivers regarding DOT and company policy violations. • Conduct road tests and evaluations to ensure driver compliance with company policies and DOT regulations. • Perform pre-trip inspections and other related duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities • Strong understanding of safety procedures, federal regulations, and company policies. • Proficient in Microsoft Office, AS-400, and CBT systems. • Effective in operating a class 8 tractor-trailer , performing pre-trip inspections, and delivering classroom training. • Excellent communication, listening, and decision-making skills. • Customer service-oriented, with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. • Able to work outdoors in various weather conditions and handle high-pressure situations. Education & Experienc e • Class A CDL or willingness to obtain within 90 days . • High school diploma or equivalent; college preferred. • Experience in public speaking or adult education. 
The expected starting pay range for this position is $59,935.20 - $79,913.60 annualized salary. Offers determined based on experience, skills, and qualifications.
 
We know benefits are critical and we are committed to offering comprehensive and affordable options for you and your loved ones. This position is eligible for benefits, which include medical, dental and vision plans. We also offer a 401(k) plan, stock purchase plan, paid time off, life insurance, disability plans and other optional supplemental coverage. Werner Enterprises provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, genetic information or veteran status or other status protected by law. We encourage applicants of all ages as we do not discriminate on the basis of an applicant's age. By clicking “Submit” you are expressly consenting to our Privacy Policy (available at https://www.werner.com/privacy-policy/ ) and to Werner Enterprises, Inc., its representatives, and affiliates (“Werner”) contacting you about your inquiry, and that Werner may collect sensitive information about you to consider your employment as explained further in our Privacy Policy. All information collected will be handled and retained as explained in the Privacy Policy.

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