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Cdl Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CDL Drivers Choice

CDL-A Local Driver

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$1.8K/wk

Class A Driver - Local Reefer Home daily. Nightshift. Reefer. Off two days between Monday-Thursday. Slip seat Day Cabs. Driver uses pallet jack to deliver. Direct deposit pay every Friday. Three day ...

CDL Drivers Choice

CDL-A Local Driver

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$96K - $97K/yr

CLASS A DRIVER- LOCAL-REEFER * HOME DAILY. * NIGHTSHIFT. * Reefer. * OFF 2 DAYS BETWEEN MONDAY-THURSDAY. * Slip seat Day Cabs. * Driver uses pallet jack to deliver. * Direct Deposit Pay every Friday ...

CDL Drivers Choice

CDL-A Semi Local Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$500/day

We are looking for Professional experienced drivers to join our family. You will be assigned to dedicated route. Join us Today- We are waiting to talk to you! Proud Equal Employment Opportunity ...

CDL Drivers Choice

CDL-A Local Driver

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$1.8K/wk

Class A Driver - Local Reefer Home daily. Nightshift. Reefer. Off two days between Monday-Thursday. Slip seat Day Cabs. Driver uses pallet jack to deliver. Direct deposit pay every Friday. Three day ...

Clover R Management LLC

CDL Local Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$1.8K/wk

CDL Local Driver Chicago, Illinois, United States About the Job CDL Local Driver Position Details ... apprenticeship. Clover R Management LLC makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications ...

Clover R Management LLC

CDL Local Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$1.8K/wk

CDL Local Driver Chicago, Illinois, United States About the Job CDL Local Driver Position Details ... apprenticeship. Clover R Management LLC makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications ...

CDL Drivers Choice

CDL-A Shuttle Spotter Driver

Joliet, IL · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

We are looking for Professional drivers to join our family. You will be assigned to a dedicated account. Join us Today, We are waiting to talk to you! Proud Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We ...

CDL Drivers Choice

CDL-A Semi Local Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$500/day

We are looking for Professional experienced drivers to join our family. You will be assigned to dedicated route. Join us Today- We are waiting to talk to you! Proud Equal Employment Opportunity ...

CDL Drivers Choice

CDL-A Semi Local Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $104K/yr

We are looking for Professional experienced drivers to join our family. You will be assigned to dedicated route. Join us Today- We are waiting to talk to you! Proud Equal Employment Opportunity ...

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All JobsCdl Apprentice JobsCdl Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cdl Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$19

$28

How much do cdl apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for cdl apprentice in Chicago, IL is $19.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CDL apprentice?

A CDL apprentice is someone who is training to become a commercial truck driver by working under the supervision of experienced drivers and instructors. During the apprenticeship, individuals learn essential skills for operating commercial vehicles, prepare for the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) exam, and gain hands-on experience in real-world driving situations. This role is often part of a formal program offered by trucking companies or training schools, and it helps new drivers build confidence and meet the necessary requirements for obtaining a CDL. Apprenticeships can also lead to full-time employment with the sponsoring company after successful completion.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CDL apprentice?

To thrive as a CDL Apprentice, you need a valid driver's license, basic knowledge of vehicle operation and safety, and the ability to pass DOT physical exams. Training involves learning to use commercial vehicles, logbooks, GPS navigation, and compliance with federal safety regulations, often supported by entry into a CDL training program. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication skills help apprentices navigate challenging driving conditions and coordinate with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and successful progression to a full commercial driving role.

What are some common challenges CDL apprentices face during their training period?

CDL Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to the physical demands of long hours on the road, learning to operate large commercial vehicles safely in diverse traffic and weather conditions, and mastering federal and state transportation regulations. Building confidence behind the wheel while under the supervision of a mentor can also be demanding, especially when navigating unfamiliar routes or complex delivery schedules. However, most companies provide ongoing support, structured training, and feedback to help apprentices overcome these hurdles and develop into competent professional drivers.

What is the difference between Cdl Apprentice vs Cdl Driver?

AspectCdl ApprenticeCdl Driver
CredentialsLearner's permit, basic CDL trainingValid CDL license, experience
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, company yardsOn-road, long-haul or local routes
Employer UsageTraining programs, entry-level positionsFull-time driving roles, transportation companies

The main difference is that a Cdl Apprentice is in training, focusing on learning and gaining experience, while a Cdl Driver has obtained a valid CDL license and is actively operating commercial vehicles. Apprentices are typically in a learning phase, whereas drivers are fully qualified professionals performing their job duties.

Are there apprenticeship programs for CDL Apprentice?

Yes, CDL apprenticeships are structured training programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on driving experience, allowing individuals to learn essential skills and earn a commercial driver's license (CDL). These programs often include mentorship, safety training, and may lead to full-time employment as a professional driver.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cdl jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cdl jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Cdl Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Cdl Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cdl Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Cdl Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Cdl Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Cdl Apprentice job openings:

Cdl Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cdl Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,482 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Lead CDL-A Truck Driver Recruiter | Performance-Based

CDL Network

Joliet, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About us

CDL Network recruits CDL-A drivers and places them with a small group of carriers we've checked out ourselves. We need a Lead CDL-A Truck Drier Recruiter, who is driven and motivated to grow with the company.


Role Description This role is full-time, can be on-site (Joliet IL) or remote. The position is responsible for managing the end-to-end recruiting process for CDL-A truck drivers, including sourcing candidates, conducting initial screenings, communicating with hiring carriers, monitor the team of existing (2) recruiters and provide training and support for the team to hit its targets. It also involves supporting the marketing manager with decision making on advertising and pricing.


The role oversees recruitment campaigns, builds and maintains talent pipelines through job boards, social media, referrals, and partnerships with driving schools, and tracks performance metrics to optimize hiring outcomes. The Lead Recruiter provides guidance to junior recruiters, ensures consistent candidate communication, and supports offer negotiations in line with company policies. This role is performance-based, with measurable targets tied to driver hiring volume, quality of hires, and time-to-fill metrics.


Qualifications

  • Experience in high-volume recruiting specifically for CDL-A truck drivers, with a track record of meeting performance targets.
  • Strong skills in candidate sourcing, screening, pipeline management and using job boards.
  • Knowledge of the trucking and logistics industry, CDL-A requirements, and relevant compliance considerations.
  • Ability to lead and mentor recruiting team members, prioritize multiple requisitions, and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • Clear, professional verbal and written communication skills and the ability to build rapport with diverse candidates and stakeholders.
  • Comfort with data-driven decision-making, including tracking KPIs, reporting progress, and adjusting strategies based on results.
  • Proficiency with standard office software and online recruiting tools.


What you'll do:

  • Call, text, and email every new lead within minutes of it coming in.
  • Qualify drivers: CDL-A, experience, endorsements, pay and home-time expectations.
  • Present the candidate to the carrier.
  • Coach the junior recruiters and hold the team to the highest standards
  • Give marketing straight feedback on lead quality by source
  • Build a pipeline from drivers to the carriers


How to apply:

  • Send your resume with your experience listed. CDL-A Truck Driver recruiting is a must.
  • If available, provide some data on your previous achievements/hired drivers at your previous relevant job.



Apply