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Local Intermodal Owner Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Local Intermodal Owner Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$663

$4.5K

$7.9K

How much do local intermodal owner operator jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average weekly pay for local intermodal 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 are Local Intermodal Owner Operators?

Local Intermodal Owner Operators are independent truck drivers who own and operate their own vehicles, specializing in the transportation of shipping containers (intermodal freight) between local rail yards, ports, and nearby customer locations. They are responsible for picking up containers from intermodal terminals and delivering them to final destinations within a defined local region, usually within a day’s drive. These operators work under contract with freight companies or carriers and are responsible for maintaining their trucks, managing schedules, and ensuring compliance with transportation regulations. This role offers flexibility but also requires entrepreneurial skills and knowledge of local logistics.

What is the difference between Local Intermodal Owner Operator vs Drayage Driver?

AspectLocal Intermodal Owner OperatorDrayage Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), possibly endorsementsCDL, often with endorsements
Work EnvironmentIntermodal yards, ports, and terminal facilitiesPorts, rail yards, and short-haul routes
Employer & IndustryLeased or own equipment working with shipping lines and terminalsFreight companies, ports, and logistics providers
Job FocusHauling containers between ports, rail yards, and distribution centersTransporting containers over short distances within port and terminal areas

The main difference is that Local Intermodal Owner Operators typically own their equipment and focus on hauling containers between ports and rail yards, while Drayage Drivers usually work for companies and transport containers over short distances within port areas. Both roles require CDL licenses and involve working in port and terminal environments, but ownership and job scope distinguish them.

What are some common challenges faced by Local Intermodal Owner Operators, and how can they be managed?

Local Intermodal Owner Operators often encounter challenges such as tight delivery schedules, navigating port or rail yard procedures, and managing equipment maintenance. Meeting strict deadlines requires effective time management and familiarity with local terminals. Additionally, staying up-to-date on regulations and maintaining good communication with dispatchers are vital for smooth operations. Building strong relationships with clients and terminal staff can also help streamline daily responsibilities and address unexpected issues efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Local Intermodal Owner Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Local Intermodal Owner Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and experience with intermodal freight transport and container handling. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), transportation management systems, and basic truck maintenance is essential. Strong time management, communication, and problem-solving skills help operators efficiently coordinate pickup and delivery schedules and address issues en route. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure timely, safe, and compliant freight delivery while maximizing operational profitability.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Local Intermodal Owner Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Local Intermodal Owner Operator job openings:
Local Intermodal Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local Intermodal Owner Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $235,466 per year, or $113.2 per hour.
CDL-A Truck Driver - Owner Operator - Home Daily

CDL-A Truck Driver - Owner Operator - Home Daily

Chicago Intermodal Transportation

Arlington Heights, IL

$200K/yr

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Chicago Intermodal Transportation is now seeking Intermodal CDL-A Owner Operators - Home Daily!Home Daily - Average $200,000 Annually, GrossLocal or Regional Routes Available - No Forced Dispatch
**Owner Operators must have their own plates**


Pay & Incentives:
  • Average $200,000 per year, gross
  • Average 5 days - $4,500-$5,000 per week, gross
  • Pay is all loaded miles, whether you are loaded, empty, or bobtail
  • No forced dispatch
  • Drive local/home daily or regional, within 300 miles, instead of long-distance
  • Chicago Intermodal Transportation covers cargo/general liability insurance
  • 50% toll reimbursement depending on location


Move Your Career Over to Chicago Intermodal Transportation - Apply Now!


Requirements:
  • Valid CDL-A
  • One year of experience
  • Must be an Owner Operator
  • Owner Operators must have their own plates

*Chicago Intermodal does not provide plates, authority, or lease-on programs*


Additional Benefits:
  • Spend more quality time with the people that matter most to you
  • Receive excellent compensation
  • Open-door policy with management
  • Dispatchers who are on your side
  • Bonus opportunities via referrals
  • Fuel card program available


About Chicago Intermodal Transportation:

At Chicago Intermodal Transportation, we’ve grown over the last 30 years as an intermodal trucking company founded by a driver with the goal of designing a company around what drivers want most. Our executive and management teams’ professional background and expertise give us a solid understanding of the needs of today’s driver, including a better balance between work and life.


Get a Satisfying career with Chicago Intermodal Transportation - Apply Now!

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