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Driver Trainee Jobs in Mankato, MN (NOW HIRING)

Mclane Company, Inc.

Driver, Trainee Hourly

Kasota, MN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

As a Driver Trainee, you will also gain insights into warehouse operations and other essential functions as part of your journey to becoming a professional driver. CDL-A Driver Training Program ...

Mclane Company, Inc.

Driver, Trainee Hourly

Faribault, MN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

As a Driver Trainee, you will also gain insights into warehouse operations and other essential functions as part of your journey to becoming a professional driver. CDL-A Driver Training Program ...

Mclane Company, Inc.

Driver, Trainee Hourly

Kasota, MN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

As a Driver Trainee, you will gain insights into warehouse operations and other essential functions as part of your journey to becoming a professional driver. CDL-A Driver Training Program - Fully ...

Mclane Company, Inc.

Driver, Trainee Hourly

Waterville, MN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

As a Driver Trainee, you will gain insights into warehouse operations and other essential functions as part of your journey to becoming a professional driver. CDL-A Driver Training Program - Fully ...

Mclane Company, Inc.

Driver, Trainee Hourly

Faribault, MN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

As a Driver Trainee, you will gain insights into warehouse operations and other essential functions as part of your journey to becoming a professional driver. CDL-A Driver Training Program - Fully ...

Mclane Company, Inc.

Driver, Trainee Hourly

Eagle Lake, MN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

As a Driver Trainee, you will gain insights into warehouse operations and other essential functions as part of your journey to becoming a professional driver. CDL-A Driver Training Program - Fully ...

Mclane Company, Inc.

Driver, Trainee Hourly

Cleveland, MN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

As a Driver Trainee, you will gain insights into warehouse operations and other essential functions as part of your journey to becoming a professional driver. CDL-A Driver Training Program - Fully ...

Sysco

CDL A Local Delivery Truck Driver

Faribault, MN · On-site

$10 - $48/hr

Most Driver Trainees have daily routes and are home nightly. * Paid vacation and holidays. * RELOCATION ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE. * Ongoing job skills and leadership development training. * Career growth ...

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All JobsDriver JobsDriver Trainee JobsDriver Trainee Jobs in Mankato, MN

Driver Trainee information

See Mankato, MN salary details

$24.8K

$49.5K

$65.9K

How much do driver trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for driver trainee in Mankato, MN is $49,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a driver trainee?

A driver trainee works with an employer to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to haul freight and operate tractor trailers. It usually involves the training you need to get a commercial driver's license (CDL). The process varies with the company, but it typically includes a combination of classroom time, safety coursework, and on-the-job route driving. Depending on the materials you carry, your duties may also involve earning additional license endorsements, such as hazardous material (HAZMAT). Your responsibilities may also be to load and unload trucks. You also have to record your work hours as per state and federal regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a driver trainee?

To thrive as a Driver Trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, and a clean driving record. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, vehicle inspection procedures, and, eventually, a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are often required. Strong attention to safety, good communication, and a willingness to learn help trainees adapt quickly and work well with supervisors and customers. These skills and qualifications ensure safe driving practices, regulatory compliance, and readiness for advancement to full professional driving roles.

What types of training and support can I expect as a driver trainee?

As a Driver Trainee, you will typically participate in a structured training program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-road experience under the supervision of experienced drivers or instructors. You'll learn about vehicle safety, regulatory compliance, route navigation, and proper loading/unloading procedures. Most employers provide mentorship and regular feedback during training, ensuring you build confidence and develop safe driving habits before transitioning to independent routes. This supportive environment helps you gradually assume more responsibility while preparing for any required licensing exams.

What is the difference between Driver Trainee vs Driver?

AspectDriver TraineeDriver
Required CredentialsDriver's license, possibly a commercial licenseValid driver's license, commercial license if applicable
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, company vehicles, on-the-job trainingRegular routes, delivery or transportation settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in transportation, logistics, or delivery companiesFull-time professional role in similar industries

Driver Trainee is an entry-level position where individuals learn driving skills and gain necessary certifications. Once training is complete, they typically advance to a Driver role, which involves operating vehicles regularly in transportation or delivery services. The main difference lies in experience level and job responsibilities, with Driver Trainee focusing on learning and development.

More about Driver Trainee jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Driver jobs in Mankato, MN?

The most popular types of Driver jobs in Mankato, MN are:

What cities near Mankato, MN are hiring for Driver Trainee jobs?

Cities near Mankato, MN with the most Driver Trainee job openings:

Driver Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Driver Trainee job openings in Mankato, MN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 58% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,518 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Driver, Trainee Hourly

Mclane Company, Inc.

Morristown, MN • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

McLane rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 49 rated food wholesalers

Job description

Advance Your Career with Us!

In this role, you will acquire the fundamental skills necessary for the Driver position, which includes the precise and timely delivery of products to various customer sites. As a Driver Trainee, you will also gain insights into warehouse operations and other essential functions as part of your journey to becoming a professional driver.

CDL-A Driver Training Program - Fully Sponsored

Location: Northfield, MN

Schedule: Monday - Thursday, 7 AM - 5:30 PM

We are excited to offer a fully funded CDL-A School right here in Northfield! This is your chance to embark on a fulfilling career as a professional driver with competitive pay and benefits.

Program Overview
  • Pay Rate: $23.50/hour during training and schooling.
  • Requirement: Must secure a CDL-A Permit before the start of classes.
  • Training: Monday-Thursday, on-site in Northfield, MN for the final 4 weeks.
Earnings Potential
  • Average first-year earnings: $80,000 - $90,000
  • Minimum guaranteed salary: $65,000 annually as a driver
Benefits
  • Comprehensive benefits available from Day 1, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, FSA/HSA, and company-paid life insurance.
  • 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan after 90 days.
  • Paid holidays, vacation time, sick leave accrual, educational assistance program, and more!
Key Responsibilities

As a trainee, you will work closely with a Driver Trainer to develop the skills needed for the following tasks:

  • Position the tractor to attach the trailer and secure it properly.
  • Operate the truck safely, adhering to all local, state, and federal regulations as well as company policies.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the tractor-trailer and submit a DOT inspection report detailing its condition.
  • Utilize the Driver Delivery Handheld (DDH) to document delivery receipts, product temperatures, and any exceptions. Ensure the trailer is loaded securely for safe transport.
  • Accompany the Driver Trainer to various locations, learning about commercial driving regulations and observing essential driving skills.
  • Maintain a driver log (Manual or PeopleNet) in compliance with DOT regulations, documenting delivery receipts, product temperatures, and exceptions.
  • Assist the Driver in unloading the trailer and delivering products to customer locations.
Minimum Qualifications

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • High School Diploma or GED is preferred.
  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Possess a CDL-A Permit.
  • Complete training and obtain a Class A CDL within 6 months.
  • Ability and willingness to select, load, unload, and deliver all products ordered by customers.
  • Physical capability to stand, walk, sit, climb, reach, bend, squat, and stoop as necessary for job functions.
  • Ability to read and understand labels, instructions, and bills of lading.
  • Perform basic mathematical calculations to verify product quantities.
  • Communicate effectively with customers, management, and fellow team members.
  • Safely operate a tractor-trailer and utilize equipment such as a 2-wheeled dolly, ramp, and onboard PeopleNet devices.
Working Environment

The role involves working in various areas, including distribution centers, transportation departments, workshops, and customer facilities. Conditions may include moderate noise, vehicle vibrations, and exposure to extreme weather depending on the climate. Regular travel, including overnight stays, is expected.

We prioritize safety with our motto, WORK SAFE, HOME SAFE. All prospective team members will undergo a pre-hire screening process to ensure their safety and ability to perform their job effectively.

All candidates will be subject to a background check and drug screening in accordance with applicable laws.

We welcome all qualified applicants and ensure equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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