Truck Driving Jobs in California

The truck driving industry will grow in demand over the next decade as the demand heightens for transported goods as our economy boosts. Truck driving jobs in California are rewarding, generously paid, and offer many opportunities to hit the open road and see a bunch of notable sites. Being a company truck driver is perfect for those fresh out of driving school and provides the opportunity to experience all aspects of the truck driving job industry and see some beautiful places in California. While looking for truck driving careers in California keep in mind being able to stumble upon Disneyland, Lake Tahoe, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Yosemite National Park! This is the time to test the waters and try different aspects of the trucking industry to see which one is right for you. Companies throughout the country are always looking for dry van, dry bulk, and reefer drivers; despite how bad the economy may get there will always be loads that need to be delivered.

Truck driving jobs in California will increase in demand over the next decade as the demand grows for transported goods as our economy boosts. The average salary for a company driving job is anywhere from $40,000 to $70,000 depending on the type of driving, experience, and endorsements. Company drivers, unlike owner operators, have the option to work a local, regional, or over-the-road run. While working for a large truck driving company you may also be given the flexibility to switch the type of driving run, if desired. For example, if a driver has been doing local runs for a few years but desires to go over-the-road; that driver just needs to apply for the position, no need for getting a company driving job elsewhere. Truck driving jobs offer great benefits for not only yourself but also your family such as: 401K, paid vacations, notable insurance, and a certain level of job freedom.

While researching California truck driving jobs, be conscious that the background checks can be very time consuming. Previous employment has to be verified along with your driving record from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. In addition, each company you worked for has to provide a DOT report from either human resources or the safety department. Companies looking to hire drivers also should be aware that they will most likely have to undergo a physical exam prior to their start date.

What to expect in a company driver career:

• You pick your route; local, regional, or over-the-road
• Working with a company provides steady work; owner operators may have to wait on contracts
• If there are certifications or endorsements needed, sometimes a company will pay for it
• Being a company driver means you are eligible for bonuses
• You are not financially responsible for repairs and maintenance to the truck

In order to land a truck-driving job, you must begin by training to get your CDL. Truck driving training can be done in as short as 4-6 weeks. Depending on what kind of company driver job you want, you may need more than just your CDL. Here is a list of common endorsements:

• HAZMAT (Hazardous Materials Endorsement)
• Doubles/Triples Endorsement
• Tanker Endorsement
• Air Brake Endorsement

Keep in mind that other certifications may be necessary to haul certain items.

If you have specific questions, call your states Department of Transportation or visit their website. Here are a few other helpful links for CDL and other information:

• http://www.dmv.org/ca-california/apply-cdl.php
• http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/traffops/trucks

Get yourself the financial freedom and professional independence you know you deserve and start your new career as a company driver today!