ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Flatbed Owner Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

XLNC Exotic

Truck Driver

San Diego, CA

Owner-Operator Truck Driver (Own Truck Mandatory) Overview We are seeking a skilled and reliable ... flatbeds, refrigerated trailers, tanker trucks, dump trucks, and roll-off trucks. This role ...

Doss Logistics Inc.

Local Class A Driver

Stockton, CA

$28/hr

Some Flatbed Exp. Preferred. * MVR must satisfy minimum requirements Doss Logistics: Secure. Safe ... owned and operated we care a great deal about safety. DOSS puts a lot of time, energy and money ...

Ace Hardware

DELIVERY DRIVER

Healdsburg, CA

$20/hr

Safely operate company vehicles (box vans, flatbeds, or pickup trucks) to deliver products ... owned and operated by local entrepreneurs. These hard working men and women are part of the fabric ...

American Iron & Metal

CDL-A Driver (Flatbed)

Colton, CA · On-site

Company Description American Iron & Metal (AIM) is a family-owned company and recognized global ... Ability to sit for extended periods while operating a vehicle. Must be able to walk or stand for ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsFlatbed Owner Operator JobsFlatbed Owner Operator Jobs in California

Flatbed Owner Operator information

See California salary details

$275

$5.6K

$6.7K

How much do flatbed owner operator jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average weekly pay for flatbed owner operator in California is $5,580.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4,450.00 and $6,642.31 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a flatbed owner operator?

Flatbed Owner Operators are independent truck drivers who own and operate their own flatbed trucks to transport large, heavy, or unusually shaped cargo. Unlike company drivers, they are self-employed and contract with shippers or freight brokers to haul loads. Flatbed Owner Operators are responsible for securing their cargo, maintaining their vehicles, and managing their business operations, including finding loads and handling finances. This job requires specialized knowledge in load securement and compliance with safety regulations. Successful Flatbed Owner Operators often enjoy greater flexibility and earning potential, but also take on more responsibility and risk.

What does a flatbed owner operator do?

A flatbed owner operator has their own commercial vehicle and works on the road as a truck driver hauling various goods throughout the country. As a flatbed owner operator, your primary duties include the safe transport and on-time delivery of products, undamaged. You can haul anything from raw materials like steel and lumber, to construction equipment, vehicles, home goods, frozen foods, and fresh produce. You can be an independent contractor, or work with a larger company that provides truck drivers to their client base. There are part-time, full-time, and seasonal opportunities available. Some employers offer benefits, retirement plans, paid time off, and steady work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flatbed owner operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flatbed Owner Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), thorough knowledge of flatbed trucking regulations, and experience with cargo securement and loading. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS routing systems, and routine truck maintenance procedures is crucial. Strong time management, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills help build client relationships and ensure timely deliveries. These skills and qualities are vital for safely transporting oversized or irregular loads while maximizing efficiency and profitability.

What are some common challenges flatbed owner operators face while transporting oversized or irregular loads?

Flatbed Owner Operators often deal with oversized or irregular loads that require special handling, securement, and routing. These challenges include ensuring loads are properly secured with appropriate equipment, adhering to state and federal regulations for oversized transport, and coordinating with dispatchers and clients for permits and escorts when necessary. Weather conditions and route restrictions can also impact delivery schedules, so adaptability and strong planning skills are crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Flatbed Owner Operator vs Van Owner Operator?

AspectFlatbed Owner OperatorVan Owner Operator
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), experience with flatbed equipmentCDL optional or standard driver's license, experience with van freight
Work EnvironmentOpen flatbed trailers, loading/unloading with straps and tarpsEnclosed trailers, loading/unloading with pallets and forklifts
Industry UsageConstruction, industrial, and large equipment transportGeneral freight, retail, and e-commerce deliveries

Flatbed Owner Operators typically handle specialized loads requiring securement skills and often work in construction or industrial sectors. Van Owner Operators focus on enclosed freight, suitable for retail and general cargo. Both roles require similar licensing but differ in equipment and work environment, catering to distinct freight types and industry needs.

How do I become an owner operator flatbed?

To become an owner operator flatbed driver, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), several years of driving experience, and a clean driving record. You must also secure financing or purchase a suitable flatbed truck and obtain necessary permits and insurance to operate independently in the industry.

Is a flatbed owner operator worth it?

A flatbed owner operator can earn higher pay due to specialized loads and longer hauls, but they also face higher expenses for equipment, maintenance, and insurance. Success depends on managing these costs, securing consistent freight, and maintaining safety standards with skills like load securement. Overall, it can be profitable for experienced operators who handle the business side effectively.

Which flatbed owner operator company pays the most?

In the flatbed owner operator industry, pay rates vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, and contract terms. Some of the highest-paying companies are known for offering competitive mileage rates, bonuses, and fuel incentives, but specific rankings can change frequently. Owner operators should research individual companies' pay structures and reviews to identify the best-paying opportunities.
More about Flatbed Owner Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in California?

For Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Flatbed Owner Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Flatbed Owner Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in CA?

For Flatbed Owner Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Flatbed Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Flatbed Owner Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $290,197 per year, or $139.5 per hour.

Class A Flatbed Driver

Ritchie Trucking Service Holdings, Inc.

Riverside, CA

$26 - $32/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Job Title: Delivery Driver – 84L Flatbed (Class A) / Piggyback Forklift
Reports to: General Manager and 84 Lumber Area Manager
Position Summary: This position is responsible for safely operating company owned and leased equipment, including a piggyback field forklift, to facilitate deliveries of construction materials to work sites.
Summary of Key Responsibilities
  • Provide outstanding customer service during delivery operations.
  • Maintain all required certifications by DOT, OSHA and company safety standards.
  • Maintain and protect all property to company standards by completing vehicle inspection reports, and communicate any variance of the company standard.
  • Review and verify bills-of-lading for accuracy and completeness, and ensure that shipper information, description of freight and piece counts are legible and required signatures are obtained.
  • Fill out daily pay/time sheet accurately to ensure proper daily billing.
  • Maintain an open line of communication with the Dispatch department and advice of any problems that may arise with equipment or problems encountered during deliveries.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Summary of Experience and Education
  • High School Diploma, GED or equivalent combined education and work experience.
  • Minimum of 1+ years of Class A Driver experience required.
  • Valid Class A License
  • Current Medical Certification Card
  • Clean driving record
  • Must be able to operate a manual/automatic transmission
  • Ability to lift up to 80 lbs. on an occasional basis
  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, push/pull, climb, kneel, bend, twist/turn, reach overhead and outward on a frequent basis
  • Ability to maintain good work attendance
  • Able to work overtime as needed
  • In good standings with the FMCSA/Clearinghouse
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Thorough knowledge of traffic laws and defensive driving techniques
  • Ability and skill to operate all equipment needed to carry out assigned duties.
  • Must be able to operate or be willing to train to operate piggyback field forklift on backend of trailer including mounting, dismounting, and field operation.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with both internal and external customers.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with employees, supervisors and customers.
Licenses and Certifications
Current Valid Driver’s License with a safe driving history
Current Class A license
Physical Demands
  • The employee is required to use hands to operate/handle objects, tools or controls.
  • Required to climb (in and out of moffett), balance, stoop, kneel, crawl and walk.
  • The employee will frequently lift/move/negotiate up to 400 pounds, assisted, up to 100 pounds unassisted. Will also be required to throw 5 pound straps in order to secure loads on the flatbed.
  • Use of winch bars required to tighten straps when properly secured on side of flatbed.
  • This role may often require travel out of the area and overnight travel.
  • This role will also require flexibility with shift times and assignments.

Apply