Jobs › Werner Enterprises

Safety Specialist

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

Posted Sep 16, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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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.

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The full job description

As published by Werner Enterprises.

Safety Specialists conduct all safety related functions in compliance with Company, Federal and State Regulations. They are responsible for ensuring that all driver needs are being professionally and efficiently addressed. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS The job functions listed below represent the essential job duties and responsibilities of the above-listed position. • Conduct all training courses offered by the Safety Department, including simulator training. • Perform all Safety related functions including, but not limited to, accident reviews, annual reviews, and remedial log training and simulator training. • Perform drug and Breath Alcohol Tests (BAT). • Knowledgeable in the use of AS-400, Microsoft Office, CBT (Computer Based Training) system, L3 simulators and other office database systems. • Provide 24 hour on-call support to the Safety Department as determined by the Terminal Manager. • Counsel drivers for DOT violations and violations of company policy. • Conduct road tests and evaluations with drivers to determine driver safety and compliance to Company Policies and Department of Transportation rules and regulations. • Knowledge and ability to perform a pre-trip inspection. • Perform other related duties as assigned by Supervisory personnel. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. • High level of proficiency in procedures, policies, methodology, and instruction of new driver orientation class. • Knowledge of Federal Regulations and Company requirements, policies and procedures. • Knowledge of Federal, State traffic laws and requirements for tractor/trailer equipment. • Skill in operating a semi-truck and trailer. • Excellent listening skills. • Excellent decision-making ability. • Excellent presentation skills in a classroom environment. • Excellent customer service skills and ability to work in a team environment. • Ability to work outdoors for extended periods of time in all weather conditions. • Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure multi-task environment. • Ability to communicate in a courteous and professional manner. • Skill in operating a P.C. and various types of office equipment. • Ability to be flexible with work hours. • Ability to work independently and be detail oriented. • Ability to acclimate and orient drivers to their new position at Werner Enterprises. • Some travel may be necessary but would be minimal. • Ability to perform In-Cab Counseling. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE • High school graduate or equivalent experience. • College preferred. • Public speaking and/or adult education experience. • Transportation Safety experience and a CDLA preferred. • One to Two years of experience in a Safety Specialist position preferred. 
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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