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Hopper Bottom Driver Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Pay: $1,600.00 - $2,500.00 per week Job Summary Join our dynamic team as a Regional Hopper Bottom Driver and take charge of transporting bulk commodities across designated regions using specialized ...

... hopper bottom; subject to pounding motions when pounding product out of trailer Disclaimer: This indicates the general nature and level of work expected. It is not designed to cover every activity ...

Hopper Bottom Driver information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$20

$48

How much do hopper bottom driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for hopper bottom driver in Minnesota is $20.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $19.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hopper bottom driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hopper Bottom Driver, you need a valid CDL (Commercial Driver’s License), a clean driving record, and experience with bulk hauling operations. Familiarity with truck maintenance, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and loading/unloading grain or aggregate materials is typically required. Strong time management, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient transport of goods, adherence to regulations, and reliable service for clients.

What is a hopper bottom driver?

Hopper bottom drivers are professional truck drivers who operate trucks equipped with hopper bottom trailers. These trailers have sloped floors and bottom discharge doors designed to haul and unload bulk commodities such as grain, feed, fertilizer, and other loose materials. The job involves transporting these materials from farms, factories, or ports to processing plants, storage facilities, or distribution centers. Hopper bottom drivers are responsible for safe loading, secure transportation, and proper unloading of bulk goods, often traveling long distances and adhering to safety and transportation regulations.

What is the difference between Hopper Bottom Driver vs Flatbed Driver?

AspectHopper Bottom DriverFlatbed Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL)CDL
Work EnvironmentTransporting bulk commodities like grain, sand, or gravel in hopper trailersHauling large, flat loads such as construction materials on flatbed trailers
Industry UsageFreight, agriculture, constructionConstruction, manufacturing, logistics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Hopper Bottom Drivers and Flatbed Drivers both require a CDL and work in freight transportation, but Hopper Bottom Drivers specialize in hauling bulk commodities using hopper trailers, often in agriculture and construction sectors. Flatbed Drivers transport large, flat loads like building materials. The main differences lie in the trailer type and cargo, though both roles share similar credentials and work environments.

What are some common challenges hopper bottom drivers face during their routes, and how can they prepare for them?

Hopper Bottom Drivers often encounter challenges such as variable weather conditions, long hours on the road, and the need to efficiently load and unload bulk materials. Being prepared involves staying updated on weather forecasts, maintaining good communication with dispatch and customers, and having a solid understanding of safe loading and unloading procedures. Additionally, drivers benefit from organizational skills to manage paperwork and delivery schedules, as well as a proactive approach to truck maintenance to minimize downtime.
What job categories do people searching Hopper Bottom Driver jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Hopper Bottom Driver jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Hopper Bottom Driver job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,021 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Regional Hopper Bottom Driver

Thoennes Trucking

Parkers Prairie, MN • On-site

$1.6K - $2.5K/wk

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description

Pay: $1,600.00 - $2,500.00 per week

Job description:

Job Summary

Join our dynamic team as a Regional Hopper Bottom Driver and take charge of transporting bulk commodities across designated regions using specialized hopper bottom trailers. This role offers an exciting opportunity to operate a variety of heavy-duty trucks, including tractor-trailers, ensuring timely and safe delivery of freight. As a key player in our logistics network, you will navigate over-the-road routes, and uphold the highest standards of safety and compliance. Your expertise will help keep our operations running smoothly while providing exceptional service to our clients.

Depending on location driver can expect to be home most nights.

Job is a Monday - Friday position NO WEEKENDS!

Duties

  • Safely operate hopper bottom trailers.
  • Load and unload freight efficiently while adhering to safety protocols and cargo handling procedures.
  • Navigate using GPS systems to ensure timely deliveries along designated route.
  • Maintain accurate logs of driving hours, cargo documentation, and delivery records in accordance with DOT (Department of Transportation) regulations.
  • Perform routine vehicle inspections, manual handling tasks, and basic maintenance checks to ensure trucks are in optimal condition.
  • Collaborate with logistics teams to plan routes, coordinate deliveries, and optimize load capacities for maximum efficiency.

Qualifications

  • Proven experience in commercial truck driving, including route driving, and hopper bottom operations.
  • Valid CDL (Commercial Driver’s License)
  • Knowledge of FMCSA regulations, DOT standards
  • Experience with GPS navigation systems and logistics cargo handling equipment.
  • Strong manual handling skills for loading/unloading freight safely and efficiently.
  • Excellent driving record with a focus on safety, compliance, and customer service excellence.
  • Must be willing and able to climb in and out of trailer to clean out product when required.

Benefits:

  • Fuel card
  • Paid training
  • Safety equipment provided

Experience:

  • CDL: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person