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Cdl Owner Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

ARL Network

CDL A Owner Operator

Chicago, IL

$3.0K - $35K/wk

Are you an experienced CDL-A Owner Operator looking for consistent freight, strong earningpotential, and a company that values your hard work? 24-7 Trucking Chicago is hiring dedicated CDL-A Owner ...

ARL Network

CDL A Owner Operator

Chicago, IL

$2.5K - $3.5K/wk

Must meet ARL Transport's IBE qualification standards CDL-A OWNER OPERATOR - LOCAL INTERMODAL HOME DAILY * JOLIET, IL & SURROUNDING AREA General Express -- a division of ARL Transport - $2,500 - $3 ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Elwood, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Green Valley, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Beaverville, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Livingston, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Troy Grove, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Big Rock, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Huey, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Hebron, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Waterloo, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Lebanon, IL · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

Partnering CDL-A Owner Operators * MORE MILES. MORE OPPORTUNITY. Average 2,000 to 2,500 miles weekly. * LESS WEIGHT. MORE MONEY. 99% no-touch, drop and hook freight. * TOP PAY. TOP MILES. Earn up to ...

Kenan Advantage Group

CDL-A Owner Operator

Pittsfield, IL · On-site

$6.0K - $7.0K/wk

... Owner Operators * Stable customer base and year-round freight * Food-grade freight that is clean, consistent, and designed for long-term profitability CDL-A Driver Requirements * CDL-A * Minimum 12 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsCdl Owner Operator JobsCdl Owner Operator Jobs in Illinois

Cdl Owner Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$624

$4.3K

$7.4K

How much do cdl owner operator jobs pay per week?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average weekly pay for cdl owner operator in Illinois is $4,259.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,328.85 and $6,336.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CDL owner operator?

CDL Owner Operators are professional truck drivers who own or lease their own commercial vehicles and operate them independently or under contract with a trucking company. They are responsible for managing their own business, which includes handling logistics, maintenance, and finances. Unlike company drivers, owner operators have more control over their schedules, routes, and the loads they haul, but they also take on more risk and responsibility. This role requires a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), business management skills, and knowledge of industry regulations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a CDL owner operator?

To thrive as a CDL Owner Operator, you need a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), a clean driving record, and business management knowledge. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS navigation systems, and compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is crucial. Strong time management, problem-solving abilities, and customer service skills help build client relationships and handle unexpected challenges. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and profitable operation of your trucking business.

What are common challenges faced by CDL owner operators when managing their own business?

CDL Owner Operators often face challenges such as managing fluctuating fuel costs, handling vehicle maintenance, and ensuring steady freight contracts. In addition to driving, you'll be responsible for business tasks like bookkeeping, compliance with regulations, and maintaining insurance. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, proactive communication with brokers and clients, and the ability to adapt to changing market demands. Many find that networking with reputable carriers and leveraging load boards can help secure consistent work and build long-term business relationships.

What is the difference between Cdl Owner Operator vs Truck Driver?

AspectCdl Owner OperatorTruck Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, responsible for own truck and routesEmployed by a company, operates company trucks
Employer & Industry UsageIndependent contractor in freight/logisticsCompany employee in transportation industry

While both roles require a CDL license, Cdl Owner Operators operate their own trucks and manage their routes, offering more independence. Truck Drivers typically work for a company, driving company-owned trucks. The main difference lies in ownership and employment status, with Owner Operators bearing more responsibility but also potential for higher earnings.

How do you become a CDL owner-operator?

To become a CDL owner-operator, you must first obtain a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) by passing written and skills tests. Then, gain driving experience, secure a business license if needed, and purchase or lease a truck, often working with freight brokers or dispatch services to find loads.

How much do local CDL owner-operators make?

Local CDL owner-operators typically earn between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on factors such as experience, equipment, and the specific freight they haul. They often work full-time schedules, and their income can vary based on load volume and operational efficiency.

Is it worth being a CDL owner operator?

A CDL owner operator is an independent truck driver who owns and operates their own vehicle, often earning higher pay per load but also bearing expenses like maintenance, insurance, and fuel. The role offers flexibility and potential for increased income, but it requires significant investment, business management skills, and the ability to handle variable workloads and schedules.

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What job categories do people searching Cdl Owner Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Cdl Owner Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Cdl Owner Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Cdl Owner Operator job openings:

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For Cdl Owner Operator jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Cdl Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cdl Owner Operator job openings in Illinois as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $221,495 per year, or $106.5 per hour.

CDL-A FLATBED OWNER OPERATOR

Valente Trucking Inc

South Holland, IL • On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description


Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and professional Flatbed cdl owner-operator to join our team. In this role, you will transport a variety of goods and materials from one location to another. You will be home almost every night., and perform Pré Trip & Post Trip vehicle inspections. The ideal candidate has experience driving Flatbed trucks and makes safety a number one priority.

Responsibilities 
  • Pick up various materials, secure them properly in one location and transport to another location. 
  • Perform routine safety inspections and preventative maintenance
  • Plan the safest and most efficient routes of travel
  • Adhere to delivery schedules
  • Maintain detailed driving log, including work periods, rest periods, and fuel expenses
  • Comply with all company policies and driving laws 
Qualifications
  • Previous experience as a Flatbed Truck Driver is preferred
  • Valid commercial driver’s license (CDL-A or B with flatbed experience
  • Familiarity with GPS systems, CB radios, and Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) technology
  • Understanding of all relevant truck driving laws and regulations
  • Clean driving record

  • local driving mostly 200-mile radius of Chicago