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Delivery Driver Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CEMEX

DRIVER READY MIX TRAINEE

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

With over a century of expertise, we are committed to delivering products and services that meet ... Job Summary ABOUT THE JOB As a Ready-Mix Driver Trainee , you will be trained to operate concrete ...

D5 LOGISTICS INC

Delivery Driver

Chino, CA

$19 - $26/hr

Trainee drivers willing to work hard and learn fast or pre-approved individuals eligible to drive for FedEx or experienced drivers. * Drivers will deliver 100-250 stops per day so good physical ...

D5 LOGISTICS INC

Delivery Driver

Chino, CA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Trainee drivers willing to work hard and learn fast or pre-approved individuals eligible to drive for FedEx or experienced drivers. * Drivers will deliver 100-250 stops per day so good physical ...

D5 LOGISTICS INC

Delivery Driver

Chino, CA

$19 - $26/hr

Trainee drivers willing to work hard and learn fast or pre-approved individuals eligible to drive for FedEx or experienced drivers. * Drivers will deliver 100-250 stops per day so good physical ...

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All JobsDelivery Driver JobsDelivery Driver Trainee JobsDelivery Driver Trainee Jobs in California

Delivery Driver Trainee information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$49.3K

$65.6K

How much do delivery driver trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for delivery driver trainee in California is $49,299.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $57,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Delivery Driver Trainees?

Delivery Driver Trainees are entry-level workers who are in the process of learning how to safely and efficiently deliver goods to customers. They typically work under the supervision of experienced drivers, gaining hands-on experience with delivery routes, customer service, vehicle safety, and company procedures. The trainee period helps them become familiar with local traffic laws, delivery documentation, and how to handle packages properly. Upon successful completion of the training, they may advance to a full delivery driver position.

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

AspectDelivery Driver TraineeDelivery Driver
CredentialsDriver's license, possibly a clean driving recordDriver's license, clean driving record, possibly additional certifications
Work EnvironmentSupervised training, learning routes, shadowing experienced driversDelivering packages or food, independent driving, customer interaction
Employer UsageTraining phase within delivery companies or restaurantsFull-time or part-time delivery role after training

The main difference is that a Delivery Driver Trainee is in a training phase, learning the job and gaining experience, while a Delivery Driver is fully qualified to perform deliveries independently. Trainees focus on skill development, whereas drivers are responsible for completing deliveries efficiently and safely.

What are some typical challenges faced by Delivery Driver Trainees during their initial training period?

Delivery Driver Trainees often encounter challenges such as mastering safe vehicle operation under various road and weather conditions, efficiently navigating delivery routes, and managing time to ensure timely deliveries. Additionally, trainees may need to quickly become familiar with company-specific protocols and technology, such as electronic logging devices or delivery tracking apps. Building strong customer service skills and learning to handle unexpected situations, like traffic delays or difficult deliveries, are also important aspects of the role.

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

To thrive as a Delivery Driver Trainee, you need a valid driver’s license, good driving record, and basic knowledge of local routes and traffic laws. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, mobile delivery apps, and, in some cases, warehouse management software is typically required. Reliability, strong time management, and excellent customer service skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities ensure on-time, accurate deliveries and positive customer interactions, which are critical for business reputation and operational efficiency.
What are the most commonly searched types of Delivery Driver jobs in California? The most popular types of Delivery Driver jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Delivery Driver Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Delivery Driver Trainee job openings:
Delivery Driver Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Delivery Driver Trainee job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,299 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Driver, Trainee Component

Driver, Trainee Component

McLane Company

Ontario, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

McLane rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 179 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th 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:

  • 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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