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Entry Level Reefer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M&K Truck Centers

Trailer Tech

Wyoming, MI · On-site

$22.50 - $32/hr

Repair van and reefer bodies. * Engage in custom metal fabrication on multiple levels. * Diagnose ... We welcome seasoned technicians as well as entry-level individuals who are mechanically inclined ...

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How much do entry level reefer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level reefer in the United States is $28.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Reefer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Reefer (Refrigerated Trailer Technician), you need a basic understanding of refrigeration systems, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, diagnostic equipment, and refrigerant handling certifications like EPA 608 are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety procedures help you stand out in this position. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure refrigerated transport equipment operates safely and efficiently, minimizing cargo loss and maintaining compliance with regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level reefer technicians, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level reefer technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex refrigeration system issues, adapting to changing technologies, and working in varying weather conditions. To overcome these challenges, it's important to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, stay updated with ongoing training, and consistently follow safety protocols. Building strong troubleshooting skills and being proactive about learning new equipment can help technicians grow more confident and efficient in their role.

What are entry level reefer jobs?

Entry level reefer jobs are positions in the transportation and logistics industry focused on operating, maintaining, or supporting refrigerated trucks or trailers—commonly called 'reefers.' These jobs are typically for individuals who are new to the field and may include roles such as driver assistants, maintenance helpers, or warehouse staff handling temperature-sensitive goods. Responsibilities often involve monitoring temperature controls, loading and unloading refrigerated cargo, and ensuring products remain at safe temperatures during transit. Entry level reefer positions provide a gateway to more advanced roles in refrigerated logistics and often require basic knowledge of safety procedures and attention to detail.

What is the difference between Entry Level Reefer vs Entry Level Truck Driver?

AspectEntry Level ReeferEntry Level Truck Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)CDL
Work EnvironmentRefrigerated trucks, cold storage areasVarious trucks, highways, delivery sites
Industry UsageFood, pharmaceuticals, perishable goodsGeneral freight, goods transportation

Entry Level Reefer and Entry Level Truck Driver roles both require a CDL and involve driving trucks. However, Reefer drivers specialize in transporting refrigerated goods, working in cold environments, while general truck drivers handle a broader range of freight across various industries. Both positions are essential in logistics and supply chain operations, with similar certifications but different work focuses.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Reefer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Reefer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Reefer jobs? The most popular types of Reefer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Reefer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Reefer jobs include:
Entry Level Reefer jobs near you
Regional Truck Driver Company - Grad Training - $70k - $100k per year - Nick Strimbu Inc

Regional Truck Driver Company - Grad Training - $70k - $100k per year - Nick Strimbu Inc

Nick Strimbu Inc

Erie, PA

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Hiring Regional CDL-A Drivers | Home Weekly | New Pay & Bonus Package.

Hiring Regional CDL-A Reefer & Flatbed Drivers | Recent CDL-A Grads Welcome!

Drive With Nick Strimbu

Pay: New Pay and Bonus Package

  • $90,000 - $100,000 experienced (1+ year) driver annual average – top 25% drivers earn $100,000+
  • $70,000 - $80,000 entry level driver annual average (less than 1 year experience)
  • $1,500 transition bonus on your first two paychecks for experienced drivers, $1,000 for entry level drivers
  • $1,000 retention bonus in your first year
  • $500+ Quarterly performance safety bonus to start, increases with years of service
  • $1,300 Quarterly On-Time Bonus
  • $200 weekend outbound delivery pay 
  • We pay detention whether the customer pays us or not

Vacation:

  • Vacation match from current trucking company up to three weeks
  • Paid vacation up to 4 weeks 
  • Earn an extra week of paid time off each year through safety bonus

 Home Time:

  • Regional routes / home weekly 
  • Frequent Operating Lanes
  • OH, PA, NY, VT, ME, MA, CT, NJ, MD, VA, NC, GA, TN, MO, MI, WI, MN

 Health Insurance:

  • Medical/Dental/Vision – Cigna
  • Deductibles:
  • Single: $1,000
  • Family: $2,000
  • Premiums:
  • Single: $38.97 a week - $168.85 a month
  • Family: $88.67 a week - $384.24 a month
  • Employer 401(k) match – 100% match up to 6% of total wages

 Equipment:

  • 2023-2027 Freightliner Cascadias – 70 mph
  • Detroit Diesel Power
  • Automatic transmissions
  • APU’s, refrigerators, heated / cooled seats

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Class A CDL and be 21 years old or older
  • Graduated from a recognized CDL truck driver training program
  • Current DOT physical
  • Be able to successfully complete drug and alcohol screen
  • Be able to successfully pass road test
  • Must possess a good track record of on-time deliveries and reliability
  • Must have a steady work history averaging 1 year or more at jobs in the last 4 years
  • No DUI, OWI, reckless driving, or other major moving violations in past 5 years
  • Less than 2 instances in any 12 month period
  • Less than 3 instances in any 36 month period (An instance is a moving violation or preventable accident)
  • No more than 1 preventable accident in any 36 month period

About Nick Strimbu Inc - Celebrating 100 Years in Business! 

1926 - 2026, Nick Strimbu Inc. is a 4th generation, family-owned regional reefer and flatbed company that operates primarily east of the Mississippi. We are a union company and our drivers enjoy some of the best pay and benefits in the Ohio Valley! Our trucks are 2023 - 2027 Freightliner Cascadias . Our drivers enjoy the same bells and whistles of the mega carriers without becoming "a number" and has been named a 2023 & 2024 Best Fleets To Drive For.

We are a veteran friendly company with a long history of working with the requirements and demands of Reserve and National Guard component members. We also have developed a training program in conjunction with FMCSA requirements to hire and train newly separated service members who have used the CDL Skills Test Waiver to obtain their class A CDL license.

We understand the challenges of being on the road, so we have developed several quality of life programs for our drivers. We are pet friendly across the board. We have a passenger program, at no cost, for experienced drivers. We automatically reimburse for showers, paid/reserved parking and have a meal reimbursement program. Our detention policy is *not* contingent upon the customer paying the penalty – we pay our drivers for their time regardless. And for when things go wrong through no fault of the driver, we have guaranteed weekly minimum pay (yes, there are some stipulations of course).

There’s a reason why Nick Strimbu Inc has been in business for 100 years and has industry low driver turnover! Come see what The Strimbu Difference is all about.

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