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Container Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Heniff

ISO Tank Container Mechanic

Joliet, IL · On-site

$21.31 - $32.01/hr

A valid driver's license. Preferred Qualifications * Knowledge of how to rebuild valves, install ... Based at an ISO container depot, with a combination of office work and hands-on supervision of ...

Heniff

ISO Tank Container Mechanic

Hazel Crest, IL · On-site

$33/hr

A valid driver's license. Preferred Qualifications * Knowledge of how to rebuild valves, install ... Based at an ISO container depot, with a combination of office work and hands-on supervision of ...

DS Containers

Be Seen First

Spotter Truck / Forklift Driver (CDL A REQUIRED)

Batavia, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

2+ years of experience on a forklift required, as well as an active CDL license and 2+ years of ... Company Description DS Containers, the leader in aerosol can manufacturing. In our state-of-the-art ...

247 Chicago

Intermodal Truck Driver

Thornton, IL · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

As an Intermodal Driver with 24-7 Trucking Chicago, you'll play a key role in keeping freight moving throughout the Chicago area by safely transporting containers between rail terminals, ports, and ...

247 Chicago

Intermodal Truck Driver

Thornton, IL · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

As an Intermodal Driver with 24-7 Trucking Chicago, you'll play a key role in keeping freight moving throughout the Chicago area by safely transporting containers between rail terminals, ports, and ...

City Haul

Intermodal CDL Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $95K/yr

We specialize in import and export container freight as well as domestic intermodal. Our fleet of company tractors and drivers, as well as owner-operators, are ELD compliant and operate within a 250 ...

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Container Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$38

$92

How much do container driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for container driver in Chicago, IL is $38.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $42.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a container driver?

Container drivers are professional drivers responsible for transporting shipping containers, typically using large trucks or tractor-trailers, between ports, warehouses, distribution centers, and other logistics locations. Their main duty is to ensure the safe and timely delivery of containers, which often carry goods for import or export. Container drivers must comply with road safety regulations, secure their loads properly, and may need to handle paperwork for cargo tracking. This role often requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and familiarity with port operations or long-haul driving.

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

To thrive as a Container Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), knowledge of transportation regulations, and experience operating large vehicles such as tractor-trailers. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and freight handling equipment is typically required. Reliability, time management, and strong communication skills help drivers interact with clients and manage schedules efficiently. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe, timely, and compliant delivery of goods in a demanding logistics environment.

What are some common challenges container drivers face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Container Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating congested ports, maintaining schedules despite traffic or weather delays, and ensuring compliance with safety and cargo regulations. Effective communication with dispatchers and port staff can help streamline pickups and deliveries. Staying organized with route planning and regularly inspecting vehicles and containers for safety can minimize disruptions and ensure efficient operations.

What is the difference between Container Driver vs Truck Driver?

AspectContainer DriverTruck Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), specialized training for container handlingCDL, general freight hauling training
Work EnvironmentPorts, container yards, intermodal facilitiesHighways, delivery routes, freight terminals
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, maritime transportFreight, logistics, general goods transport
Job FocusTransporting containers between ports, yards, and rail terminalsTransporting various goods over roads

Container Drivers specialize in moving shipping containers within ports and intermodal facilities, often requiring specific training for container handling. Truck Drivers typically transport a variety of freight across highways, focusing on long-distance or local deliveries. While both roles require a CDL, Container Drivers focus on container logistics, whereas Truck Drivers handle general freight. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in the logistics industry.

How to become a container driver?

To become a container driver, you typically need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a valid endorsement for hauling freight, along with a clean driving record. Experience driving large trucks and knowledge of safety protocols are also important. Some employers may require training on specific equipment or certifications in cargo handling.

What are popular job titles related to Container Driver jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Container Driver jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Container Driver jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Container Driver jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Container Driver jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Container Driver job openings:

Container Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Container Driver job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,052 per year, or $39 per hour.

CDL-A Dedicated Local Container Driver - Night Shift (100% Home Daily)

Velocity TruckingPros LLC

Oak Park, IL

$62K - $72K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

CDL-A Local Intermodal Night Driver

Local Container Fleet | 100% Nightly Home Time

Core Job Brief
  • The Role: Dedicated local intermodal night driver pulling containers out of Chicago rail hubs across regional loops in Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa, and Indiana.
  • Home Time Routine: 100% Home Daily, finish your shift and head home every single night.
  • Freight Handling: Heavy night drop-and-hook operations with occasional live loads/unloads. Expect standard metro Chicago traffic conditions on local loops.
Pay Structure & Financial Projections
  • Base Mileage Rate: $0.62 per loaded mile (~1,800 miles per week)
  • Load Incentive: Additional $20.00 flat rate per pulled load
  • Night Differential: +$0.06 CPM premium (Monday–Friday, 7:00 PM to 4:00 AM)
  • Weekend Differential: +$0.12 CPM premium (Friday 7:00 PM through Monday 4:00 AM)
  • Weekly Gross Average: $1,200.00 to $1,400.00 per week
  • Calculated Annual Target: $62,400 to $72,800 per year ($1,200–$1,400/wk × 52 weeks)
Schedule Expectations
  • Shift Assignment: Dedicated Night Shift dispatch.
  • Weekly Cadence: Weekend work is standard to keep rail container freight moving.
  • Holidays: Dispatch required only if a holiday falls on your normal work schedule.
Driver Profile & Qualifications
  • Experience Requirement: First Seat experienced drivers only. Must have 6+ months of verifiable tractor-trailer experience in the last 3 years (or 12 months in the last 5 years). Trainees and team drivers are not accepted on this lane.
  • Credentials: Valid Class A CDL and active DOT Medical Card (no endorsements required).
  • Screening: Clean MVR and background history; must pass mandatory pre-employment drug screening (Non-SAP compliant).
Corporate Benefits
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision health coverage
  • 401(k) retirement account with company matching active after 60 days
  • Accrued paid time off (PTO)
  • 24/7 dedicated local intermodal dispatch support