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Entry Level Class 1 Driver Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Centerline Drivers

Local Class A Driver

Turlock, CA · On-site

$31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Jul. 9, 2026 Centerline is your one access point to limitless truck driving opportunities. Our job ... Our truck drivers have the opportunity to work for multiple Fortune 1000 companies, locate ...

Mdb Transportation Llc

CDL Class A Driver

Atwater, CA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Call 562-306-1333 or 310-919-9831. $5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS FOR NEW DRIVERS. $1,000 DRIVER REFERRAL BONUS. MDB Transportation is hiring experienced CDL Class A drivers out of our Fresno, CA, terminal.

MDB Transportation

CDL Class A Driver

Atwater, CA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Call 562-486-7050 or 310-919-9831. $5,000 SIGN-ON BONUS FOR NEW DRIVERS. $1,000 DRIVER REFERRAL BONUS. MDB Transportation is hiring experienced CDL Class A drivers out of our Fresno, CA, terminal.

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All JobsClass 1 Driver JobsEntry Level Class 1 Driver JobsEntry Level Class 1 Driver Jobs in Merced, CA

Entry Level Class 1 Driver information

See Merced, CA salary details

$15

$18

$20

How much do entry level class 1 driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level class 1 driver in Merced, CA is $18.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $19.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level Class 1 driver?

An Entry Level Class 1 Driver is a professional who has recently obtained a Class 1 commercial driver's license (CDL), allowing them to operate large vehicles such as tractor-trailers and semi-trucks. These drivers typically have limited driving experience and may be new to the industry. Their main responsibilities include safely transporting goods over long distances, performing basic vehicle inspections, and adhering to all traffic and safety regulations. Entry-level drivers often receive on-the-job training and may work under the supervision of more experienced drivers initially.

What can I expect during my first few months as an entry level Class 1 driver?

As an Entry Level Class 1 Driver, your initial months typically involve on-the-job training, familiarizing yourself with company routes, safety protocols, and vehicle operations. You may be paired with experienced drivers or mentors to help navigate challenging situations such as adverse weather or tight delivery schedules. It's common to start with shorter or local routes before progressing to longer hauls as you gain confidence. You'll also be expected to complete regular vehicle inspections and maintain accurate logs, which are essential for compliance and safety. Building good communication with dispatchers and other team members will help ensure a smooth workflow and support your professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level Class 1 driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Class 1 Driver, you need a valid Class 1 commercial driver's license (CDL), a good driving record, and basic knowledge of vehicle safety and regulations. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS navigation systems, and routine vehicle inspection protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, time management, and reliability are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, timely deliveries and compliance with transportation laws, which are critical for success in commercial driving.

What is the difference between Entry Level Class 1 Driver vs Class 1 Driver?

AspectEntry Level Class 1 DriverClass 1 Driver
Required CredentialsBasic commercial driver's license (CDL) with Class 1 endorsementFull Class 1 CDL with experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level routes, local deliveries, supervisedLong-haul, cross-country, more autonomous
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions in transportation companiesExperienced drivers in freight and logistics

The main difference is experience and scope. Entry Level Class 1 Drivers hold the necessary license but are new to the industry, often working under supervision. Class 1 Drivers are experienced, handle more complex routes, and operate independently. Both roles require a CDL Class 1 license, but the level of experience and job responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Class 1 Driver jobs in Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Class 1 Driver jobs in Merced, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Class 1 Driver jobs in Merced, CA?

For Entry Level Class 1 Driver jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Class 1 Driver jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Class 1 Driver jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Entry Level Class 1 Driver jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Entry Level Class 1 Driver job openings:

Entry Level Class 1 Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Class 1 Driver job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,016 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Nor Cal Driver - Shuttle (Nights)

Foster Farms

Livingston, CA

$25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Foster Farms rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 440 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Description About Foster Farms At Foster Farms, our mission is creating great food and serving great moments. Our vision is to be the best and most trusted food company, empowering and nourishing the lives of those we serve. We measure our success by how well we protect and care for our team, our consumers, our animals, and our environment, while delivering operational excellence and exceptional value to our customers.Essential FunctionsPOSITION IS FULL TIME / Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday General start time would be between 5:00pm to 8:00pm / 8 hours shifts Pay rate: $25.00 (Additional $1.00 per hour for hours worked between 7:00pm and 11:59pm. Additional $2.00 per hour for hours worked between 12:00am-4:59am). Transport assigned loads Safely load/unload product using hand trucks or power equipment Pre and post trip all equipment used during each shift Accurately complete and distribute all required paperwork Qualifications Must possess a valid Class 1 driver's license and current medical card Must have two (2) years minimal professional driving experience. DMV record must conform to Foster Farms Guidelines. Must have experience with tractor-trailer, tanker combinations, both 53 foot and doubles. Must be able to work flexible schedule. Must have a good attendance record. Must have a good safety record. Must be able to effectively communicate in English (oral & written). Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Must be able to hand crank trailer landing gear, which requires exerting substantial force. Must be able to sit for prolonged periods of time. Must be able to climb in and out of tractors throughout the shift Must be able to submit and pass criminal background check. Foster Farms ACTION Guiding Principles Accountability: Deliver on commitments. Collaboration: Achieve more by working as a team. Truth-Seeking: Be open-minded and act with humility. Initiative: Be proactive and lead with a growth mindset. Ownership: Take responsibility for results. Nimble: Operate with speed and agility. Why Join Foster Farms? This is a high-impact opportunity to shape the future of the ready-to-eat business at a leading food company, directly supporting our mission, vision, and values. You will play a critical role in delivering safe, high-quality food and great moments for millions of families.

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