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Entry Level Tanker Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

PartTime Call Center

Signal Hill, CA ยท On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Job Summary Entry level position for trainee inspector who will ultimately be able to undertake ... Must possess a valid current driving license and meet the requirements of AmSpec Safe Driving ...

CDL Custom Applicator

Greenfield, CA ยท On-site

$1.4K - $1.9K/wk

On-Site Experience Level: Entry Level Job Type: Full Time Nutrien is a leading provider of crop ... High school diploma or GED * CDL Class A with Hazmat and Tanker Endorsements * Able to lift/carry ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Tanker Driver information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$38

How much do entry level tanker driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level tanker driver in California is $25.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level tanker driver?

To thrive as an Entry Level Tanker Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with relevant endorsements (such as HazMat and Tanker), a clean driving record, and a strong understanding of safe vehicle operation. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS navigation, and spill containment systems is often required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These qualifications and skills are crucial for ensuring the safe, legal, and efficient transport of hazardous or sensitive materials.

What is the difference between Entry Level Tanker Driver vs Delivery Driver?

AspectEntry Level Tanker DriverDelivery Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Tanker EndorsementDriver's License (varies by vehicle)
Work EnvironmentTransporting liquids or gases in tankers, often long hoursDelivering packages or goods, often local or regional routes
Industry UsageOil, chemicals, fuel, or liquid transportationRetail, food, or parcel delivery services

Entry Level Tanker Drivers and Delivery Drivers both require specific licenses and work in transportation sectors. Tanker drivers focus on transporting liquids in specialized vehicles, often involving hazardous materials, while delivery drivers typically handle parcel or product deliveries. The roles differ mainly in the type of cargo, required certifications, and work environment, but both are essential roles within the transportation industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level tanker drivers and how can they be managed?

Entry level tanker drivers often encounter challenges such as mastering the safe handling of liquid cargo, adapting to strict safety regulations, and managing long or irregular driving hours. Spillage prevention and understanding how liquid movement affects vehicle stability are key learning areas. New drivers can overcome these obstacles through comprehensive training, closely following safety protocols, and seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues. Building strong communication with dispatchers and other team members also helps ensure smooth operations and timely deliveries.

What is an entry level tanker driver?

Entry Level Tanker Drivers are commercial drivers who are responsible for transporting liquids or gases in large tanker trucks. As entry-level professionals, they typically have recently obtained the necessary commercial driver's license (CDL) with a tanker endorsement and may have limited driving experience. Their duties include safely loading, transporting, and unloading materials, inspecting vehicles for safety, and adhering to all federal and state transportation regulations. They often work under supervision and may receive on-the-job training to handle hazardous or non-hazardous materials. This role is essential for industries such as fuel, chemical, and food-grade liquid transportation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Tanker Driver jobs in California? The most popular types of Tanker Driver jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Tanker Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,804 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Entry Level Forklift Operator/General Warehouse Laborer

PLA Family of Companies

Shafter, CA โ€ข On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

The Entry Level Forklift Operator - General Warehouse Laborer is a dual-function warehouse role responsible for operating a sit-down forklift to safely move pallets and materials throughout the facility, while also manually sorting pallets by type and condition to meet company standards. This position plays a critical role in maintaining inventory accuracy, supporting production flow, and ensuring pallet quality. Ideal candidates are safety-minded, dependable, and comfortable with repetitive physical tasks in a fast-paced environment. Forklift certification is provided on-site — no prior experience required.

Our Story… So Far

Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Dallas, Texas, PLA is a national supply chain solutions provider offering Pallet Management Services, 3PL Services, Reverse Logistics Services, and Freight Brokerage & Transportation Management Services, handling over 115 million pallets per year for over 1,500 customers. Now one of the largest pallet manufacturing and recycling companies in the United States, PLA has over 76 facilities, employing upwards of 3500 employees across 23 states, and is still looking for opportunities for growth, both organically and through acquisition.

Pay Rate:

  • Range: $17.50 - $21.75 an hour
  • Day Shift: $17.50 an hour
  • Night Shift: $18.75 an hour
  • Guaranteed Progression: 50-cent per hour increases at 90 days, 1 year, and annually thereafter for a total of 5 years, reaching the maximum rate at 5 years in this role

Work Schedule:

  • A1 Shift: 5:00 am to 1:30 pm (Sunday thru Thursday)
  • B1 Shift: 5:00 am to 1:30 pm (Tuesday thru Saturday)
  • B2 Shift: 2:30 pm to 11:00 pm (Tuesday thru Saturday)

Here’s What We Offer:

  • Daily Pay Option – Access your earnings before payday
  • Weekly Pay – Get paid on time, every week
  • PTO (Paid Time Off)
  • Full Benefits: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance – 3 medical plan options through Blue Cross Blue Shield with low weekly premiums starting at $28.75
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) – Company contribution up to $750 annually with tax-advantaged savings
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Flexible Benefits – Multiple plan options to fit your needs and budget
  • Prescription Drug Coverage – Low copays starting at $10 for generic medications
  • FREE Life Insurance & AD&D – Basic coverage provided at no cost upon employment
  • Vision Benefits – $10 eye exams and $150 frame allowance through Superior Vision by MetLife starting at $1.46 per week
  • Dental Coverage – 100% preventive care coverage with MetLife plans starting at $5.76 per week
  • Voluntary Short-Term Disability (STD) – Income replacement up to 60% of weekly covered earnings (max $1,500 weekly) for a non-work-related injury or illness.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free and confidential support for work stress, grief, legal/financial issues, and more.
  • Additional Voluntary Benefits – MetLife Legal and Identity Theft Services and Pet Insurance with ASPCA.
  • LifeMart employee discounts (through ADP) on everyday stuff and larger purchases.
  • Dell Employee Purchase Program (EPP) discounts available for personal use.

What You’ll Be Doing:

Reporting to the Supervisor or Manager, the Forklift Driver is responsible for operating and maintaining a sit-down forklift to move and organize pallets within a warehouse environment. Your responsibilities will include:

  • Operating a sit-down (electric) forklift to move pallets in and out of trailers and designated areas.
  • Performing daily safety inspections of the forklift.
  • Refueling or charging forklift tanks as needed.
  • Verifying and completing load documentation (paper or digital).
  • Moving pallets with accuracy and maintaining clear records.
  • Maintaining a clean, organized, and safe workspace.
  • Following all safety policies and procedures.
  • Supporting other general warehouse functions as needed.
  • Adapting to new schedules, team structures, or tasks based on operational needs.

What We’re Looking For:

  • No prior forklift experience required – we train and certify on-site.
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Ability to lift 70–100 lbs throughout the day.
  • High School diploma or GED preferred.
  • Must pass PLA forklift certification.

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and lift for extended periods.
  • Capable of lifting and moving heavy materials regularly throughout the shift (e.g., lumber, pallets).
  • Comfortable working in a warehouse environment that may include varying temperatures, noise, and dust.
  • Requires good manual dexterity and tactile sensitivity for operating tools, handling materials, and inspecting pallet quality.
  • Ability to hear and understand verbal instructions in a noisy environment, as well as alarms and equipment sounds.
  • Excellent vision (including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus) for detailed work, reading measurements, identifying defects, and operating machinery safely.

Work Environment:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee will primarily work in a warehouse environment. This may include exposure to dust, fluctuating temperatures (hot and cold), and moderate to high noise levels. Steel-toed boots and other personal protective equipment (PPE) will be required.

PLA Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request, by contacting Hiring@PLASolutions.com. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request. Furthermore, our dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion is articulated in our public commitment to fostering a culture where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. We are deeply invested in attracting, retaining, and promoting diverse talent across our company.

If you need assistance or accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request by contacting Hiring@Propak.com. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized because of such a request.