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Driver Trainee Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Education Qualifications • High School Diploma GED/Equivalent Preferred • Valid state-issued driver's license and any other licenses (as required by federal, state and local laws) to operate a ...

Must have a valid driver's license, with no more than two moving violations and/or at fault accidents on driving record in the past three years. * No drug or alcohol related convictions (DWI/DUI) on ...

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Driver Trainee information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$22.9K

$45.8K

$61K

How much do driver trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for driver trainee in Rochester, MN is $45,811.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,700.00 and $53,200.00 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, and why are they important?

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 are Driver Trainees?

Driver Trainees are individuals who are in the process of learning how to operate commercial vehicles, such as trucks or buses, under the supervision of experienced drivers or instructors. They typically participate in training programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on driving experience. The goal is to help trainees gain the skills and qualifications necessary to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) and become professional drivers. Driver Trainees often work closely with mentors to ensure they understand safety regulations, vehicle operation, and company policies.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Driver jobs in Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Driver jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Driver Trainee jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Driver Trainee job openings:

CDL Delivery Driver Trainee

Schott Distributing Company, Inc.

Rochester, MN • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Schott Distributing Company, Inc. - Rochester, MN

Job Title: CDL Delivery Driver Trainee/Delivery Assistant
Employment Type: Full-Time
Starting Wage: $20.00/hour
Hit the Road with Schott Distributing!
We’re looking for motivated Delivery Drivers (and trainees!) to join our team in Rochester, MN.
If you like staying active, working with people, and bringing beer, seltzer, cider, and other beverages to customers across our community, this could be the perfect fit!
What You'll Do:
  • Safely load, unload, and deliver products at customer locations
  • Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and hand carts as needed.
  • Build strong relationships with customers as a friendly brand ambassador
  • Rotate stock, build displays and collect payments at accounts
  • Conduct daily vehicle inspections and follow DOT/FMCSA rules
  • Represent Schott Distributing with professionalism and pride on every route

What We’re Looking For:
  • CDL-A Drivers ready to roll
  • Or Driver Trainees eager to earn their CDL (we’ll provide the training!)
  • Clean driving record (no DWI/DUI in the last 5 years)
  • Ability to lift and move cases (25 lbs) and kegs (up to 160 lbs) on a repeated basis throughout the day, sometimes in awkward spaces.
  • Must be 18+ and able to pass a DOT physical and drug screening
  • Strong attention to detail- accuracy matters when delivering orders!
  • Strong customer service skills and reliability

Why Drive With Schott?
We’re a local, family-oriented business that values our team members and recognizes hard work. When you join Schott, you’re not just taking a job—you’re becoming part of a fun, dedicated crew that takes pride in what we do.
Benefits Starting Day One:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance with no waiting period
  • 401(k) + company match- start saving from day one
  • Employer-paid life and disability insurance
  • $500 annual work clothing allowance + uniforms provided
Time Off amp; Flexibility:
  • 9 paid holidays (including 2 floating holidays of your choice)
  • Generous PTO- earn up to 17 days your first year
  • PTO carryover and quarterly sell-back options
  • Flexible scheduling when life happens
Bonuses amp; Perks:
  • Annual profit-sharing and Christmas bonuses
  • Thanksgiving turkeys and Easter hams for your family
  • Free or discounted beverages for employees (limitations apply)
  • Family-oriented culture- enjoy company events, picnics and holiday parties

Be Part of Something Great
Schott Distributing is a local, family-oriented company where hard work is recognized and rewarded. You’ll work in a dynamic environment that supports the ever-growing world of beer, cider, seltzer, spirits, wine, THC, non-alcoholic beverages, and more. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and make an impact- while having some fun along the way- we want to hear from you!
Apply today and start building your future with us!