Entry Level Tanker Jobs
Tanker trucking positions for drivers with 6 months - 1 year experience. Pay: $45,000 - $55,000.
Entry Level Tanker Driving
You have completed your initial training period and have been driving solo for several months. You are building confidence in your skills and establishing your safety record. At this stage, more carriers are willing to hire you and pay rates start improving noticeably.
Tanker is one of the segments that some carriers will train new drivers for. Tanker drivers transport liquid and gaseous cargo including fuel, chemicals, milk, juice, and industrial liquids in cylindrical tank trailers. The job requires a tanker endorsement on your CDL and an understanding of liquid surge — the dangerous sloshing effect that can destabilize a truck during braking and turns.
Companies Hiring
Tips for Entry Level Drivers
- 💡 Start building relationships with dispatchers and load planners — drivers who communicate well and are flexible with loads get the best freight assignments.
- 💡 After 6 months of clean driving, update your resume and start exploring carriers that pay significantly more than training companies. You now have leverage.
- 💡 Consider getting your hazmat endorsement — it opens higher-paying loads and sets you apart from other entry-level drivers with only basic CDL-A credentials.
- 💡 Track your actual miles driven versus what you were promised during hiring. If the gap is large, it may be time to shop for a better freight-matching carrier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can entry level drivers get tanker jobs?
Some carriers hire entry level drivers for tanker positions, especially through training programs. Companies like Heartland Express and USA Truck accept recent CDL graduates.
How much do entry level tanker drivers earn?
Entry Level tanker drivers typically earn $45,000 - $55,000. Tanker positions often carry a premium over standard dry van rates, especially for drivers with 6 months - 1 year of experience.
What do I need to drive tanker with 6 months - 1 year experience?
You need a valid CDL-A license and a clean MVR. Many carriers offer training programs to help you get started in the tanker segment.
Entry Level Tanker Jobs
Apply to tanker positions for entry level drivers.
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