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Entry Level Truck Driver Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

City of Healdsburg

Utility Worker I/II

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

This is the entry level class in the Utility Worker series. Positions in this class typically have ... Employees with a Class A Driver's License will be enrolled in the City's DOT Random Drug and ...

City of Healdsburg, CA

Utility Worker I/II

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

This is the entry level class in the Utility Worker series. Positions in this class typically have ... Employees with a Class A Driver's License will be enrolled in the City's DOT Random Drug and ...

All JobsTruck Driver JobsEntry Level Truck Driver JobsEntry Level Truck Driver Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Entry Level Truck Driver information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$16

$18

$20

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level truck driver in Santa Rosa, CA is $18.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $19.95 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Truck Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Truck Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Truck Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Entry Level Truck Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Truck Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Truck Driver jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Entry Level Truck Driver jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA 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 Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,359 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

CDL-A Truck Driver - No Experience Needed

Melton Truck Lines

Napa, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Melton Truck Lines is Now Hiring Recent CDL-A Graduates and Entry Level Drivers! Comprehensive Flatbed Training No-Touch Freight - Flexible Home Time

Driver’s receive $100 Tarp Pay at Melton – which translates to an additional $10,000 or more in annual compensation!


Competitive Pay that Keeps You Ahead:
  • Entry-level drivers start at 60 CPM!
  • 1-3 years of experience - 63 CPM
  • 3+ years of experience - 64 CPM
  • Earn up to 74 CPM with Melton Miles, details below
  • Up to $10,000 in tuition reimbursement
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage 
  • 401(k) retirement program
  • Veterans: Qualifying veterans could receive up to an additional $26,000 of tax-free BAH within their first year. If you remain in the program for the full 24-months, you could receive over $40,000 of tax-free BAH!
  • No-touch freight
  • Flexible OTR home time - bank unlimited days!
  • Drivers are out a minimum of 2 - 3 weeks at a time depending on home domicile


Veterans with military driving experience could qualify for an additional 6 CPM in starting pay!


New Modern Equipment:

Great drivers deserve great equipment! Melton Truck Lines operates a large and growing fleet of impeccably maintained, late-model equipment. We have one of the most modern and impressive fleets on the road today with the average age of our tractors being under two years.


Honoring Military Veterans:

With over 30% of Melton employees having served in the military, we are always looking to hire veterans and active-duty reservists.

Melton veteran driving jobs offer a state-of-the-art pre-hire evaluation program, apprenticeships, and a great career for any veteran that enjoys a culture focusing on teamwork, discipline, and dedication. Our extensive programs and veteran resources make Melton one of the best truck-driving companies for veterans.


Earnings with Melton Miles:
  • After 100,000 Melton Miles 65 CPM
  • After 200,000 Melton Miles 66 CPM
  • After 360,000 Melton Miles 67 CPM
  • After 600,000 Melton Miles 68 CPM
  • After 900,000 Melton Miles 69 CPM
  • After 1,200,000 Melton Miles 70 CPM
  • After 1,700,000 Melton Miles 71 CPM
  • After 2,200,000 Melton Miles 72 CPM
  • After 2,700,000 Melton Miles 73 CPM
  • After 3,200,000 Melton Miles 74 CPM


Benefits Designed with Drivers in Mind:
  • Paid weekly
  • $750 - $1,000 driver referral bonus
  • Per diem pay
  • Competitive layover/ detention pay
  • Free on-site health clinics and dental exams 
  • On-site gym, workout facilities, and personal trainer 
  • Telemedicine - professional medical assistance from anywhere 
  • Dedicated driver services team 
  • US DOL & VA Apprenticeship Program
  • 24/7 safety helpline 
  • Pet Program – 90 lbs or less dog or cat 
  • Rider Program – 18+ years old year-round, 10+ years old during summer months
  • Numerous career path options for drivers to earn extra cash


Requirements:
  • Must have a valid Class A CDL
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • No DUIs in the past 5 years
  • Must meet all applicable DOT regulations, including a DOT physical and drug testing


Join the Melton Team - Apply Now!
Melton Truck Lines logo

About Melton Truck Lines

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Melton Truck Lines is known for treating its drivers like family. Melton has been running more than 60 years with a reputation of excellence and stability in the trucking industry. Melton aims to remain ahead of the competition with top pay and benefits, free on-site clinics and dentists, 24/7 driver help desk, performance and referral bonuses, rider and pet programs, and much more.

Industry

Trucking

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tulsa, OK, US

Year founded

1954

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