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Truck Driver

Career Overview

In this global economy, we are buying the bulk of our goods from across the sea – toys from China, oil from the Middle East, coffee from Colombia, cars from Japan. Those various imports arrive via plane, train, or ship; however, those items must still make it into your local retail store. Whether it be long-haul drivers or local delivery truck drivers, these folks distribute and deliver freight so that the various goods reach the consumer.

Job Outlook

• Employment is expected to grow 9 percent over the 2008-18 decade, which is the job growth average
• As the demand for goods increases, more jobs will be created
• Industries least likely to be affected by economic fluctuation, such as grocery stores, will be the most stable employers

Show Me the Money!

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics [bls.gov], the average salary in California for long-haul drivers is $41,660, while local delivery drivers average $34,150. For both, salaries vary greatly according to the industry. Also, long-haul drivers are often paid by the mile, while local drivers tend to be paid by the hour, with overtime pay. Typically, pay increases with experience, seniority, and the size and type of truck driven.

A Day in the Life

• Map a route so that the freight arrives on time
• Drive to and from various destination(s)
• Load and unload cargo as needed
• Perform administrative duties, like filling out travel logs, cargo paperwork and receipts
• Ensure equipment is working properly, and make repairs as necessary
• Workdays can be extremely long, requiring late nights and early mornings, and are often done alone

Your Workplace

Trucking and freight companies, local delivery services, or private businesses

Training, Degrees or Licensure

In order to prepare for the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) exam, candidates can receive training at a technical or vocational school. Training focuses on large vehicle driving, truck and freight inspection for regulation compliance, and highway guidelines. Those carrying hazardous materials receive additional training. Every two years, truck drivers must pass a physical exam which tests vision, hearing and blood pressure.

Movin’ On Up

Experience and good driving records provide better paychecks, schedules, contracts and bonuses. Drivers can become dispatchers or managers, or acquire additional vehicles to go into private business for themselves.

Traits For Success

This job requires physical strength, good vision, clean driving and felony record, the ability to make and follow plans and deadlines, self-motivation, the ability to work well with little or no supervision, and comfort with solitude. Long-haul drivers must be agreeable being away from home for days or weeks at a time, while local delivery drivers must have good communication skills and a neat appearance, as they often interact directly with customers.

Did You Know?

The legal weight for an eighteen-wheeler is 80,000 lbs. – 40 tons! (The average automobile weighs around 5,000 lbs. – 2.5 tons.) Eighteen wheelers also have a lot more gears than a regular car; the most common amount is ten forward and two reverse gears, making a total of 12 gears. Truckers really do have their life in gear – literally!