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Class A Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mclane Company, Inc.

CDL-A Trainee, Component

Etna, OH

$90K - $95K/yr

The Driver Trainee gains exposure to warehouse and other operational functions as part of the ... Possess a Class A CDL. * Be at least 21 years of age. * Meet eligibility requirements in the McLane ...

McLane Company

CDL-A Trainee, Component

Lockbourne, OH · On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

The Driver Trainee gains exposure to warehouse and other operational functions as part of the ... Possess a Class A CDL. * Be at least 21 years of age. * Meet eligibility requirements in the McLane ...

Mclane Company, Inc.

CDL-A Trainee, Component

Irwin, OH

$90K - $95K/yr

The Driver Trainee gains exposure to warehouse and other operational functions as part of the ... Possess a Class A CDL. * Be at least 21 years of age. * Meet eligibility requirements in the McLane ...

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How much do class a trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for class a trainee in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Class A Trainees during their initial training period?

Class A Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to the size and handling of commercial vehicles, mastering pre-trip inspections, and learning federal safety regulations. Balancing classroom instruction with practical, on-the-road training can be demanding, especially when adjusting to irregular schedules or long hours. However, most training programs offer support through mentorship, peer collaboration, and hands-on practice to help trainees build confidence and skills before taking the CDL exam.

What is the difference between Class A Trainee vs Class B Driver?

AspectClass A TraineeClass B Driver
Required CredentialsLearner's permit, basic driving knowledgeCommercial driver's license (CDL) Class B
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, on-road practiceLocal delivery, passenger transport
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, logistics companiesPublic transit, freight companies

Class A Trainee is an entry-level position focusing on learning and gaining experience, often requiring a learner's permit. In contrast, a Class B Driver holds a commercial license and actively operates vehicles for deliveries or passenger services. The main difference lies in certification and job readiness, with Class A Trainee being a preparatory role and Class B Driver being a fully qualified professional.

What is a Class A Trainee?

A Class A Trainee is an individual who is training to obtain a Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which allows them to operate large commercial vehicles such as tractor-trailers, semis, and other combination vehicles. During the trainee period, individuals receive hands-on instruction and supervised driving experience to learn the skills and safety protocols required for commercial driving. This position is typically the first step toward a career as a professional truck driver, and upon successful completion of training and passing the CDL exam, trainees become eligible for full-time driving positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Class A Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Class A Trainee, you need a valid commercial driver's permit, basic knowledge of vehicle operation, and a strong understanding of safety regulations. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS navigation, and pre-trip inspection checklists is typically required, and obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is essential. Attention to detail, adaptability, and strong communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient transport operations while building a foundation for a professional driving career.
What cities are hiring for Class A Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Class A Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Class A jobs? The most popular types of Class A jobs are:
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Class A Trainee jobs near you
CDL-A Trainee, Component

CDL-A Trainee, Component

Mclane Company, Inc.

Groveport, OH

$90K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 hours ago

McLane rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 172 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 48 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:
  • Pay Rate: Drivers make $90,000 to $95,000 per year after training.
  • Pay Rate while in training: 21.00 an hour.
  • $5,000 CDL-A Trainee Retention Bonus.
  • Pay Structure: Hours, Miles, Cases, and Stops.
  • 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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