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Entry Level Truck Driver Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Truck Driver information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$14

$16

$18

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level truck driver in Decatur, IL is $16.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $17.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level truck driver?

An entry-level truck driver is a student driver who is still mastering the skills of being on the road with a large commercial truck. Driving a commercial truck differs substantially from driving a car, so you need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to drive a truck legally. When you get a job as an entry-level driver, you receive on-the-job training from a mentor who helps with fine-tuning your driving skills and other road habits in preparation for getting a Class A CDL. You need this license before you can drive solo and transport cargo along a designated route. At this level, your responsibilities primarily revolve around learning, but your mentor may assign you other duties as well.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level truck drivers during their first year on the job?

Entry level truck drivers often encounter challenges such as adjusting to long hours on the road, learning to navigate various routes and weather conditions, and managing time effectively to meet delivery schedules. Adapting to life away from home and maintaining a healthy work-life balance can also be difficult at first. However, many companies offer mentorship programs and on-the-job training to help new drivers build confidence and develop safe driving habits.

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

AspectEntry Level Truck DriverDelivery Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)Driver's license (varies by vehicle)
Work EnvironmentLong-haul or regional trucking, often overnightLocal routes, urban or suburban areas
Employer & Industry UsageTrucking companies, freight carriersRetail, food services, courier companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Truck Drivers typically hold a CDL and operate large trucks over long distances, while Delivery Drivers usually have a standard driver's license and focus on local deliveries. Both roles involve driving, but differ in work environment and industry focus.

How do entry level truck drivers get their first job?

Entry level truck drivers typically start by obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) through a training program or school. They then apply to trucking companies that hire new drivers, often completing a training or orientation period, and may need to pass a background check and drug test before starting their first job.
More about Entry Level Truck Driver jobs

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For Entry Level Truck Driver jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Truck Driver jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Entry Level Truck Driver jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Entry Level Truck Driver job openings:

Entry Level Truck Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Truck Driver job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,918 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Army Truck Drivers Entry-Level

U.S. Army Recruiting Battalion

Decatur, IL • On-site

$12.50 - $26.92/hr

Full-time

PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

**THIS JOB REQUIRES ENLISTING/JOINING THE U.S. ARMY**

This is an entry-level position with no experience necessary. When you enlist into the Army as an Army Truck Driver, you become a part of a team of Soldiers. As a Soldier you secure your future with a career in the Active Duty Army (full-time) and are able to take advantage of all the benefits that serving in the Army gives you. You gain leadership skills, college credit, and job-security by enlisting into the Army that is hard to find in the civilian sector. 

Job Duties:

 

  • Operate all wheel vehicles and equipment over varied terrain and roadways
  • Manage load, unload, and safety of personnel being transported
  • Oversee and check proper loading and unloading of cargo on vehicles and trailers
  • Employ convoy defense techniques
  • Identify, correct or report all vehicle deficiencies
  • Prepare vehicle for movement/shipment by air, rail or vessel
  • Attend Basic and Advanced Training (paid)

Basic Qualifications:

  • Age - 17 to 34 years old
  • Education - Current Senior in High School(HS), HS Diploma, GED, GED equivalent, or higher education level completed
  • Citizenship - U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident
  • Submit to background and medical screening
  • Receive a passing score on the ASVAB

Benefits:

  • Enlistment bonus up to $40,000, varies by job and individual qualifications
  • Education benefits
    • Tuition Assistance ($4,000 annually) / GI Bill (up to $108,000 for 36 months of attending college)
  • Paid training (Basic and Advanced)
  • 30 days of paid vacation earned every year
  • Additional living expenses for those who have dependents
  • Various lengths of contracts available from 2 years to 6 years normally

This is a position in the Army Reserves. In order to qualify you must meet the minimum requirements to enlist in the United States Army. 

These include, but are not limited to:

Age between 17-34 years old
Ability to pass an extensive background check with no significant law charges (waivers are authorized on a case-by-case basis)
Ability to pass an extensive medical exam including full panel drug testing to ensure fitness to enlist in the military and attend basic training
Attaining qualifying test scores on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Test (ASVAB)

Required qualifications:
  • 17 years or older
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Speaks English
  • Background check
  • Drug screening
  • Reads English
  • At least high school diploma or equivalent or higher

Apply