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Hopper Trailer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Central Farm Service Co

Semi Truck Driver

Minneota, MN

$50K - $55K/yr

... 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 ...

W3Global Inc.

Outbound Freight Manager

Rosemount, MN

$140K - $170K/yr

Experience working with hopper bottoms, walking floors, belt trailers, end dumps, and other bulk freight equipment * Strong analytical and reporting capabilities with advanced Excel skills and ...

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Hopper Trailer information

What is a hopper trailer?

A hopper trailer is a type of semi-trailer designed to transport and unload bulk commodities like grain, fertilizer, or sand. It features sloped floors and one or more hoppers with doors at the bottom, allowing for easy and controlled unloading through gravity. Hopper trailers are commonly used in agriculture and construction industries for efficient bulk material handling. They come in various sizes and configurations to suit different hauling needs. Regular maintenance and proper loading techniques are important to ensure safe and efficient operation.

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

To thrive as a Hopper Trailer Truck Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), safe driving record, and knowledge of agricultural hauling regulations. Familiarity with air brake systems, hopper trailer operation, GPS navigation, and electronic logging devices (ELDs) is typically required. Strong time management, attention to detail, and effective communication with dispatchers and clients are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure timely, safe, and compliant delivery of bulk products, supporting both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by hopper trailer drivers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Hopper trailer drivers often face challenges such as navigating rural routes, managing variable load weights, and ensuring proper unloading at grain elevators or processing facilities. Drivers must be attentive to safety protocols when opening or closing hoppers and vigilant about cleaning the trailer to prevent cross-contamination between loads. Effective communication with dispatchers and customers is important for coordinating delivery times and adapting to schedule changes, while familiarity with agricultural regulations helps ensure compliance during transport.

What is the difference between Hopper Trailer vs Tanker Truck?

AspectHopper TrailerTanker Truck
Primary UseTransporting bulk dry materials like grain, coal, or cementTransporting liquids such as fuel, chemicals, or water
DesignOpen-top or covered, with a sloped bottom for unloadingEnclosed tank with specialized valves for liquids
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), possibly HAZMAT depending on cargoCDL, HAZMAT endorsement if carrying hazardous liquids
Work EnvironmentLoading/unloading at bulk facilities, highway transportationLoading/unloading at chemical plants, fuel stations, or ports

Hopper trailers are designed for dry bulk materials, while tanker trucks are used for liquids. Both require CDL and possibly HAZMAT endorsements, but their design and usage differ significantly, catering to different types of cargo in the transportation industry.

What are popular job titles related to Hopper Trailer jobs in Minnesota?

For Hopper Trailer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hopper Trailer jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Hopper Trailer jobs in Minnesota are:

Hopper Trailer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hopper Trailer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 63% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Regional Hopper Bottom Driver

Parkers Prairie, MN • On-site

Thoennes Trucking
See more jobs at Thoennes Truckingexternal

$1.6K - $2.5K/wk

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

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