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Hopper Driver Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Geils Farms LLC

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CDL Class A Driver

Harvard, IL · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... driver with experience. Local hauling 300+ miles daily ... Mostly hopper. Flatbed and Belt also.

Jerre LeVoy Trucking inc

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Company Drivers CDL A

Poplar Grove, IL · On-site

$1.0K - $2.0K/wk

family owned trucking company looking to hire full time, class A driver. Looking for a driver to pull hopper bottom. We haul ag commodities. Grain, feed, fertilizer, and feed ingredients. Home daily.

S-I-REN

Class A CDL Interstate Driver

Ohio, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

... driver- Local or within driving distance of Ohio IL * Local/Regional. * Must be at least 21+ years ... Local and Regional- Belt or Hopper- Home every weekend. * Looking for a long-term team member.

K & S Tire Recycling, Inc.

CDL Drivers

Chicago Heights, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Garbage truck driver: load tires into hopper at customer's location in brand new garbage trucks Requirements: * Valid A or B Class Drivers License * Valid DOT Medical Card * Must be able to lift 50 ...

City of Carbondale, IL

Apprentice Teamster

IL · On-site

$21.81/hr

... the truck hopper in bulk or by visually identifying recyclables and sorting into specified truck tubs * Verbally request assistance from the truck driver when items may weigh over 50 pounds.

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All JobsHopper Driver JobsHopper Driver Jobs in Illinois

Hopper Driver information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$20

$47

How much do hopper driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for hopper driver in Illinois is $20.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hopper driver?

Hopper Drivers are professional truck drivers who operate vehicles equipped with hopper trailers, which are used to transport bulk materials such as grain, sand, gravel, or other loose commodities. Their responsibilities include loading and unloading materials, ensuring the safe operation of the truck, and delivering goods to various destinations. Hopper Drivers must follow safety regulations, keep accurate records, and maintain their vehicles. This role often requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) and a good understanding of road and weight regulations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a hopper driver?

To thrive as a Hopper Driver, you generally need a commercial driver's license (CDL), good driving record, and knowledge of road safety regulations. Familiarity with vehicle inspection protocols, GPS navigation systems, and sometimes hydraulic lift controls is often required. Strong time management, reliability, and effective communication with dispatchers and team members are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure efficient, safe transport of materials and timely service, which are critical for operational success in logistics and waste management.

What are common challenges faced by hopper drivers and how can they be managed?

Hopper Drivers often face challenges such as navigating tight urban streets, adhering to strict schedules, and safely operating heavy machinery under varying weather conditions. Effective management of these challenges involves following safety protocols, maintaining clear communication with dispatchers and crew members, and staying organized throughout the collection route. Many employers provide ongoing training and support, which helps drivers develop problem-solving skills and adapt to route changes or unexpected obstacles. Building good teamwork and a proactive attitude can make the role more manageable and rewarding.

What is the difference between Hopper Driver vs Truck Driver?

AspectHopper DriverTruck Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), possibly a Hazmat endorsementCDL, often with endorsements depending on cargo
Work EnvironmentTransporting bulk materials to and from construction sites, farms, or industrial facilitiesLong-haul or local freight delivery across various industries
Industry UsageConstruction, agriculture, mining, industrialLogistics, freight, retail, manufacturing

Hopper Drivers primarily operate specialized vehicles for bulk material transport, often within industrial or agricultural settings, requiring specific endorsements. Truck Drivers have a broader role in freight transportation across multiple industries, with similar licensing requirements. Both roles involve driving large vehicles, but Hopper Drivers focus on bulk material delivery, while Truck Drivers handle general freight.

How much do Hopper drivers make?

Hopper drivers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they are independent contractors or employed by a company. Many drivers also receive tips and may have opportunities for bonuses based on performance or delivery volume.

What are popular job titles related to Hopper Driver jobs in Illinois?

For Hopper Driver jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hopper Driver jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Hopper Driver jobs in Illinois are:

Hopper Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hopper Driver job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,565 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

CDL Class A Driver

Harvard, IL • On-site

Geils Farms LLC
See more jobs at Geils Farms LLCexternal

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

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Job description

Looking for a Class A CDL driver with experience. Local hauling 300+ miles daily. Mostly hopper. Flatbed and Belt also.