Truck Driver duties and responsibilities
Truck Drivers are responsible for transporting a variety of materials, parts, and finished products. Some use delivery trucks or vans, and others use large commercial vehicles with trailers, tow trucks, dump trucks or other types of equipment. Truck Drivers sometimes transport refrigerated items or hazardous materials like gasoline. Duties and responsibilities in a Truck Driver job description may include:
- Loading and unloading trucks
- Completing a daily truck log and submitting mileage reports
- Conducting daily vehicle inspections and reporting any problems
- Complying with company and government regulations and rules
- Securing cargo and dealing with hazardous materials safely, as needed
- Communicating with dispatchers and other drivers using onboard radios or computers
- Paying for goods and receiving payments from clients
- Performing emergency repairs like patching tires when needed
Truck Driver skills and qualifications
Truck Drivers must drive safely, keep their attention on the road, and ensure that their cargo reaches its destination. They can adapt to changes quickly, be professional, work independently, and navigate unfamiliar areas successfully. Some top skills and qualifications for Truck Drivers include:
- Customer service
- Written and verbal communication
- Planning and organization
- An outstanding driving record without accidents or major traffic violations
- Ability to adapt to changing conditions, troubleshoot equipment, and find new routes when needed
Truck Driver experience requirements
Most positions request Truck Drivers with more than two years of experience operating a similar type of vehicle they use. However, there is a wide range, as many are suitable for new Truck Drivers, and some for Truck Drivers with more than five years of experience.
Truck Driver education and training requirements
Truck Drivers typically must have a high school diploma or GED, but more importantly a commercial driving license. Several types of licenses are available, and people who operate more specialized vehicles like cement mixers often need additional qualifications. Different provinces have varying requirements, and some positions often require on-the-job training as well.
Truck Driver salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Truck Driver is $22.92 per hour. Pay rates can depend on locations, experience and education levels, and employers.
Job description samples for similar positions
If a Truck Driver isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, some similar job description samples include: