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Freight Train Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ryder

CDL A Truck Driver - Dedicated Freight

Gilberts, IL · On-site

$1.5K/wk

Ryder will Train you on all equipment needed to be successful * Freight: Touch - High End Appliances EXTRA PERKS: Our Drivers tell us Carrier Transparency is top priority. Don't spend time applying ...

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All JobsFreight Train Driver JobsFreight Train Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL

Freight Train Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$31

$71

How much do freight train driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight train driver in Chicago, IL is $31.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $28.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do freight train drivers earn?

Freight train drivers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Salaries can increase with seniority, additional certifications, and working overtime or night shifts.

What does a typical work schedule look like for a freight train driver?

Freight Train Drivers often work varied schedules that can include nights, weekends, and holidays, as freight rail operations typically run 24/7. Shifts may be long—sometimes up to 12 hours—and can require being on-call, especially for routes covering significant distances. You’ll work both independently in the locomotive cab and in close coordination with conductors, train dispatchers, and yard crews. This dynamic schedule offers opportunities for overtime but also requires flexibility and a strong commitment to safety. Many rail companies provide structured rest periods and support to help drivers manage work-life balance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freight train driver?

To thrive as a Freight Train Driver, you need excellent attention to detail, strong situational awareness, and a valid train driving license or certification, often supported by completion of rigorous training programs. Familiarity with railway signaling systems, onboard control panels, and safety protocols is crucial for operating freight trains safely and efficiently. Dependability, stress management, and effective communication help drivers respond to unexpected issues and coordinate with dispatchers and rail yard personnel. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, timely, and compliant freight transportation across rail networks.

How hard is it to become a freight train driver?

Becoming a freight train driver typically requires completing a training program, obtaining a commercial driver's license with a freight endorsement, and gaining experience operating trains. Candidates must also pass medical and background checks, and often need to demonstrate strong attention to safety and operational procedures. The process can take several months to a year depending on training programs and experience requirements.

What is a freight train driver?

A Freight Train Driver operates heavy freight trains, transporting goods and cargo over long distances. They are responsible for ensuring the train runs safely, adhering to schedules and railway regulations. Duties include monitoring instruments, responding to signals, and handling any operational issues. The role requires strong concentration, quick decision-making, and often involves working irregular hours.

What qualifications do you need to drive a freight train?

To become a freight train driver, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with a passenger and freight endorsement, and specialized training or certification in locomotive operation. Experience with train handling, safety procedures, and knowledge of railway signals and regulations are also essential.
What are popular job titles related to Freight Train Driver jobs in Chicago, IL? For Freight Train Driver jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freight Train Driver jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Freight Train Driver jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Freight Train Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freight Train Driver job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,059 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

CDL A Truck Driver - Dedicated Freight

Ryder

Gilberts, IL • On-site

$1.5K/wk

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Ryder rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 512 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

185th of 361 rated logistics

Job description

Ryder is hiring a Class A CDL Truck Driver in Gilberts, IL — offering weekly pay, excellent benefits, and a driving career you can feel good about.

See and Hear from a Ryder Employee who Drives for Us Here:

https://RyderCareers.Video/CDLstrapping

Ryder Employees who Drive on this account earn $1500 or more Weekly and it gets better

  • Driver Positions Pay Weekly
  • Weekly Guarantee $1500 per week
  • Solo Miles Pay:$0.60 per Mile with 2000 Miles per Week
  • Solo Stops Pay:$25.25 per Stop with 12 Stops per Week
  • Per Diem Pay: $51.50 per night with 2 - 3 nights per Week
  • Paid Training
  • Schedule: Monday – Friday - No Weekends

Apply Here with Ryder Today

Spots are filling fast — click apply now to secure your spot.
Questions? Call Jaime or text “Gilberts” to 629-899-6585 to speak with your recruiter today.

We know choosing a driving career is a big decision.
That’s why we’re upfront about pay, routes, and schedules — so you can feel confident joining the Ryder team. 

  • Deliver SOLOTo:WI, IL, MI, IN, OH, PA, KY and TN
  • Route: Regional; Home Weekends 
  • Tractor Type: Sleeper/Day Cab & Occasional 26' Straight Truck 
  • TrailerType:Dry Van
  • Equipment: Pallet Jack, Appliance Handcarts and Lift Gate 
  • Ryder will Train you on all equipment needed to be successful
  • Freight: Touch – High End Appliances 

EXTRA PERKS:

Our Drivers tell us Carrier Transparency is top priority. Don’t spend time applying for jobs with ‘Average Pay’ or confusing pay structures. We know you’re essential to keep our economy afloat. Your trust, safety and securityisour top priority.You will work with the Safest and most Reliable Fleet in the Industry.YouDeliverfor us so we make sure to Deliver for you!

All the benefits you expect — without the wait.

  • Medical, Dental & Vision after 30 days
  • Earn PTO starting Day 1. Up to 80 hours accrued in 1st year
  • Uniforms, cell phone & boot allowance provided
  • Drivers are the Captain — you make safety decisions, and your job is protected 
  • 401(k) rollover available now + company match at 1 year
  • 12 weeks paid maternity leave (subject to specific eligibility criteria, including work tenure)
  • Employee discounts on tools, vehicles, travel, tech & more

Click here to see all Ryder Driving Opportunities: https://ryder-drivers.jobs/

Thinking about becoming a Company Driver? Ryder will purchase your truck and support you every step of the way, so you can focus on driving—not the details.

At Ryder, you’re joining more than a company — you’re joining a community of proud women and men in logistics, including Military Reservists and Veterans.

Know great drivers — get paid for it. Ryder pays unlimited referral bonuses for hired drivers.

EEO/AA/Female/Minority/Disabled/Veteran

Our Culture & Commitment:
At Ryder, you’re trusted to make an impact—while enjoying room to grow and having a voice that’s heard. Our culture is built on respect, collaboration, and shared pride in doing great work rooted in innovation and safety.

Your Voice. Your Success. The Future We Build Together.


  • Minimum 21 years of age
  • Pass a Ryder Drug Test
  • Pass a Ryder Background and Motor vehicle check including Drug and alcohol verification from previous employers for the last 3 years
  • Pass a DOT physical
  • Pass a Ryder road test
  • Provide appropriate CDL and endorsements for the position
  • Must have Class A verifiable experience in a tractor trailer or comparable vehicle:
    • 9 months experience within the past 3 years, OR
    • 2 years’ experience within the last 5 years, OR
    • 5 years’ experience within the last 10 years
  • Ability to follow written and/or oral instructions
  • Ability to read, interpret and apply laws, rules, regulations policies and/or procedures

Important Note: Some positions require additional screening that may include employment and education verification; motor vehicle records check and a road test; and/or badging or background requirements of the customer to which you are assigned.


  • Ensuring compliance with applicable federal and/or state laws, regulations, and/or agency rules, standards and guidelines
  • Detecting and eliminating or minimizing safety hazards Maintaining accurate records and logs
  • Loading/Unloading freight or assisting in the loading/unloading of freight if required by customer
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Ryder is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug Free workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with disability.

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