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Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

STG Logistics

Owner Operator

Chicago, IL

If you're looking for consistent container freight, competitive rates, and a local team that understands port and rail operations, STG Drayage has opportunities ready now. Why Owner-Operators Choose ...

STG Logistics

Owner Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

If you're looking for consistent container freight, competitive rates, and a local team that understands port and rail operations, STG Drayage has opportunities ready now. Why Owner-Operators Choose ...

STG Logistics

Owner Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

If you're looking for consistent container freight, competitive rates, and a local team that understands port and rail operations, STG Drayage has opportunities ready now. Why Owner-Operators Choose ...

STG Logistics

Owner Operator

Mccook, IL · On-site

If you're looking for consistent container freight, competitive rates, and a local team that understands port and rail operations, STG Drayage has opportunities ready now. Why Owner-Operators Choose ...

Norbet Trucking

Owner Operator EC

East Chicago, IN · On-site

... local laws and regulations as well as company policies and procedures for transporting various ... Pay: 75% owner-operator pay 100% fuel surcharge Stop & detention pay Liability & truck insurance ...

ARL Network

CDL A Owner Operator

Chicago, IL

$2.5K - $3.5K/wk

Local intermodal: in and out of the rail yards every day -- no over-the-road, no weeks away from ... This is the typical weekly range for owner operators running a full schedule -- before fuel ...

ARL Network

CDL A Owner Operator

Joliet, IL

$2.5K - $3.5K/wk

Local intermodal: in and out of the rail yards every day -- no over-the-road, no weeks away from ... This is the typical weekly range for owner operators running a full schedule -- before fuel ...

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All JobsLocal Hopper Bottom Owner Operator JobsLocal Hopper Bottom Owner Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$663

$4.5K

$7.9K

How much do local hopper bottom owner operator jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average weekly pay for local hopper bottom owner operator in Chicago, IL is $4,528.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,476.92 and $6,734.62 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a local hopper bottom owner operator?

A Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator is a self-employed truck driver who owns and operates a hopper bottom trailer, which is commonly used to transport bulk agricultural products such as grain, feed, or fertilizer. These operators typically work within a specific local or regional area, hauling loads between farms, grain elevators, and processing facilities. Responsibilities include maintaining the truck and trailer, securing loads, and managing their own business operations. This role allows for greater independence compared to company drivers, but also requires handling expenses, scheduling, and finding loads.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a local hopper bottom owner operator?

To thrive as a Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator, you need a valid CDL, experience in hauling bulk agricultural commodities, and knowledge of DOT regulations. Familiarity with dispatch software, GPS navigation systems, and proper maintenance of hopper bottom trailers is typically required. Excellent time management, attention to detail, and strong customer service skills set top operators apart. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable transportation services, which are critical for customer satisfaction and regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by local hopper bottom owner operators, and how can they be managed?

Local hopper bottom owner operators often face challenges such as fluctuating freight rates, maintaining their equipment, and balancing irregular schedules. Staying proactive with preventative maintenance helps minimize downtime and costly repairs. Building strong relationships with brokers and local grain facilities can lead to more consistent loads and better rates. Effective time management and clear communication with dispatchers and customers are also key to efficiently handling multiple short-haul trips each day.

What is the difference between Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator vs Local Flatbed Driver?

AspectLocal Hopper Bottom Owner OperatorLocal Flatbed Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), experience with hopper bottom trailersCDL, experience with flatbed trailers
Work EnvironmentHauling bulk materials like grain, sand, or gravel within local areasTransporting large, flat items such as construction materials or machinery locally
Employer & IndustryIndependent owner-operators or small fleets in agriculture, construction, or bulk material industriesConstruction, manufacturing, or logistics companies requiring flatbed transport

The main difference between a Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator and a Local Flatbed Driver lies in the type of trailers used and the cargo transported. Hopper bottom operators focus on bulk materials like grain or sand, while flatbed drivers handle large, heavy items. Both roles require a CDL and local driving experience, but they serve different industries and cargo needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hopper Bottom Owner Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Hopper Bottom Owner Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local Hopper Bottom Owner Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $235,466 per year, or $113.2 per hour.

Owner Operator

STG Logistics

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Chicago Owner-Operators Needed for Intermodal & Drayage Freight

$2,000 Sign On Bonus! 


Text APPLY to (860) 300-2110 to get your quick app started!

STG Drayage is growing its intermodal and drayage network and looking to contract with experienced Owner-Operators in Chicago, IL and surrounding port and rail markets.

If you’re looking for consistent container freight, competitive rates, and a local team that understands port and rail operations, STG Drayage has opportunities ready now.

Why Owner-Operators Choose STG Drayage

  • $2,000 Sign On Bonus
  • Home Nightly 
  • Consistent Port & Rail Freight
  • Competitive Weekly Settlements
  • Local & Regional Drayage Runs
  • Drop & Hook Opportunities
  • Industry-Leading Fuel Discounts
  • Expanding Freight Network Across Major Ports & Rail Ramps
  • Supportive Local Team

Built for Intermodal Drivers

STG Drayage is one of North America’s fastest-growing intermodal carriers because it understands what matters most to owner-operators: steady freight, efficient turns, strong communication, and maximizing your time on the road.

Whether you’re running port containers daily or looking to grow your intermodal business, STG Drayage offers long-term opportunity with consistent freight volumes.

Owner-Operator Requirements

  • Minimum 21 Years Old
  • 12+ Months of Verifiable Tractor-Trailer Experience Within the Last 5 Years
  • Military driving experience may qualify toward road experience requirements (call for details)

If you’re a safety-focused owner-operator looking for consistent drayage or intermodal freight, partner with STG Drayage today.

Call now to get started!

Apply