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Cdl Driver Trainee Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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Cdl Driver Trainee information

See Wisconsin salary details

$25.2K

$50.4K

$67.1K

How much do cdl driver trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for cdl driver trainee in Wisconsin is $50,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,400.00 and $58,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cdl Driver Trainee vs Cdl Driver?

AspectCdl Driver TraineeCdl Driver
Required CredentialsLearner's permit, CDL trainingValid CDL license, driving experience
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, supervised drivingCommercial vehicles, on-road
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level rolesFull-time professional drivers

The main difference is that a Cdl Driver Trainee is in training and has not yet obtained a full CDL license, while a Cdl Driver is a licensed professional responsible for operating commercial vehicles. Trainees focus on learning and gaining experience, whereas drivers are fully qualified to perform their duties independently.

What are some common challenges faced by CDL driver trainees during their initial training period?

CDL Driver Trainees often face challenges such as mastering vehicle control, learning to navigate unfamiliar routes, and adapting to long hours on the road. Balancing classroom learning with hands-on driving can be demanding, and trainees may also need to quickly become proficient in federal safety regulations and company protocols. Many find that asking questions, seeking feedback from experienced drivers, and practicing regularly help overcome these initial hurdles and build confidence behind the wheel.

What is a CDL driver trainee?

A CDL Driver Trainee is an individual who is in the process of learning how to operate commercial vehicles and obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This position typically involves classroom instruction, hands-on driving practice, and mentorship under experienced drivers. The goal is to prepare trainees to safely and effectively handle trucks or buses, follow federal and state regulations, and pass the required licensing exams. Upon successful completion of the program, trainees are usually eligible for full-time CDL driver positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CDL driver trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CDL Driver Trainee, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and the ability to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) through classroom and on-the-road training. Familiarity with GPS navigation, logbook systems, and basic vehicle inspection tools is typically required. Strong attention to safety, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe vehicle operation, regulatory compliance, and the ability to efficiently handle routes and customer interactions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cdl Driver jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Cdl Driver jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Cdl Driver Trainee jobs in Wisconsin? For Cdl Driver Trainee jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cdl Driver Trainee jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Cdl Driver Trainee jobs in Wisconsin are:
Infographic showing various Cdl Driver Trainee job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,420 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Driver Trainee - Milwaukee

Mclane Company, Inc.

Cudahy, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


McLane rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 180 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 49 rated food wholesalers


Job description

Take your CDL-A career further!
Our drivers work hard to move, supply, and provide for America's favorite brands. Being reliable and dedicated to safety has defined our success as an industry leader for 130+ years. Join McLane and discover the driving difference-we provide you with industry-leading pay, strong and secure client relationships, and get you home safely and more often. That's why our drivers build long-lasting careers with us.
The Driver, Trainee Component position learns the essential functions of the Driver job including the accurate and timely distribution of products to various customer locations. The Driver Trainee gains exposure to warehouse and other operational functions as part of the developmental process of becoming a McLane Driver.
Benefits you can count on:
Extra board pays up to $87,000
  • Day 1 Benefits: medical, dental, and vision insurance, FSA/HSA and company-paid life insurance.
  • Paid holidays, earn vacation time, and sick leave accrual from day one.
  • 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan after 90 days.
  • Additional benefits: pet insurance, maternity/paternity leave, employee assistance programs, discount programs, tuition reimbursement program, and more!

What you'll do as a Trainee Component Driver:
  • Maneuver tractor into position to attach trailer and handle lines to secure.
  • Operates truck in a safe manner in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations and company policies.
  • Inspect tractor-trailer equipment for defects pre/post trip and submit DOT inspection report indicating condition.
  • Operates Driver Delivery Handheld (DDH), document delivery receipts/product temperatures and exceptions. Inspects trailer to ensure product is secure for undamaged transport of product.
  • Rides and trains with Driver Trainer of tractor-trailer to various destinations, gaining knowledge of commercial driving regulations and observing the Driver's skill in starting engine properly, approaching intersections, making turns, backing, parking, and maneuvering vehicle on the road and on customer premises.
  • Maintain driver log (Manual or PeopleNet) according to DOT regulations, documenting delivery receipt, product temperatures and exceptions.
  • Assists the Driver in unloading trailer and delivering product into customer premises.
  • Provides customer service including on-time delivery of undamaged product, product returns and issuing valid customer credits.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications you'll bring as a Trainee Component Driver Teammate:
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred.
  • Possess a Class A CDL.
  • Be at least 21 years of age.
  • Meet eligibility requirements in the McLane Transfer and Promotion Policy.
  • Ability and willingness to select/load/unload and/or deliver ALL products that may be ordered by McLane customers.
  • Read and comprehend labels, instructions, and bills of lading.
  • Perform mathematical calculations to verify quantities of product.
  • Communicate with customers, management, and other teammates.
  • Safely drive a tractor-trailer, use a 2-wheeled dolly, ramp, and on board PeopleNet devices.
  • This position requires the ability to read, write, and understand English at a level sufficient to perform job-related tasks effectively and safely. This includes understanding work instructions, safety protocols, and communications essential to the role. The requirement is directly related to the nature of the job and ensures compliance with workplace safety and operational standards.

Fit the following? We want you here!
  • Safety-focused
  • Reliable
  • Adaptable
  • Dedicated

Moving America forward - together.
We've been forging our path as a leader in the distribution industry since 1894. Building an expansive nationwide network of team members for 130+ years has allowed us to stay agile for our clients across the restaurant, retail, and e-commerce industries. We look to the future and are ready to continue making industry-defining moves by embracing the newest technology into our practices, continuing team member training, and emphasizing our people-centered culture.
Candidates may be subject to a background check and drug screen, in accordance with applicable laws.
All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
For our complete EEO and Pay Transparency statement, please visit https://www.mclaneco.com/legal/employment/

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