Route Sales Representative Trainee

Role Summary The Route Sales Representative Trainee supports branch sales, delivery, and merchandising operations while learning assigned route responsibilities. This position is designed to parallel the Branch Merchandiser role during training, with added emphasis on DOT compliance, safe vehicle operation, customer service, product delivery, route sales, inventory rotation, and account relationship development. Upon successful completion of training and business readiness, the trainee is expected to assume responsibility for an assigned route. Key Responsibilities Train alongside branch leadership, Route Sales Representatives, and Branch Merchandisers to learn route structure, customer expectations, product standards, delivery procedures, merchandising practices, and branch operating requirements. Assist with loading, unloading, delivering, stocking, rotating, and merchandising products at customer locations in accordance with company standards, food safety expectations, and first-in, first-out inventory practices. Build and maintain product displays, ensure proper shelf presentation, monitor product condition, remove damaged or outdated product as directed, and communicate inventory or service concerns to branch leadership. Learn to operate company vehicles safely and professionally, complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections as required, and follow all Department of Transportation, company safety, traffic, and vehicle operation requirements. Develop knowledge of assigned accounts, customer ordering patterns, product needs, route timing, sales opportunities, promotional priorities, and service expectations in preparation for independent route assignment. Provide professional customer service by communicating clearly with store personnel, addressing routine service needs, supporting product availability, and escalating concerns when appropriate. Complete required paperwork, route documentation, handheld device entries, delivery records, invoices, settlement information, and other administrative tasks accurately and on time. Demonstrate readiness to transition from trainee duties to assigned route ownership, including reliable attendance, safe work habits, route knowledge, merchandising execution, customer service, and compliance with company and DOT requirements. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong customer service and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with customers, store personnel, branch team members, and leadership. Ability to organize work, follow route instructions, manage multiple stops, complete required documentation, and meet service expectations within established timeframes. Basic math, inventory, and recordkeeping skills needed to assist with invoices, product counts, route settlement, customer orders, and sales-related documentation. Ability to learn product lines, merchandising standards, customer preferences, route procedures, safe driving practices, and DOT-related requirements. Ability to use handheld devices, route technology, email, and commonly used Microsoft Office applications as required for communication, reporting, and documentation. Demonstrated commitment to safety, accuracy, dependability, product quality, and compliance with company policies and applicable DOT requirements. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent is required. Previous experience in route delivery, merchandising, sales, retail, warehouse, customer service, food distribution, or a related field is preferred. Must meet company driving standards and be able to obtain and maintain all required DOT qualifications, including any applicable medical certification, licensing, training, and company-required driving credentials. Must be willing and able to successfully complete trainee requirements and transition to an assigned route when training is completed and business needs require. Physical Requirements Mobility: Requires frequent walking, s…

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