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Oversize Load Driver Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Oversize Load Driver information

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How much do oversize load driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for oversize load driver in Oregon is $30.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.67 and $31.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by oversize load drivers, and how are they managed on the job?

Oversize Load Drivers frequently encounter challenges such as navigating tight or busy roadways, adhering to varying state and local regulations, and coordinating with escort vehicles and law enforcement. To manage these obstacles, drivers rely on detailed route planning, constant communication with their support teams, and adaptability to sudden changes like weather or construction detours. Being detail-oriented and proactive helps prevent accidents and delays, ensuring the safe delivery of large or heavy cargo. Many companies also provide ongoing training and support networks to help drivers handle these unique requirements confidently.

How much do oversize load driver pilot drivers make?

Oversize load drivers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of loads. Experienced drivers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, especially when hauling complex or hazardous loads. Overtime and per-mile pay can also increase overall earnings.

What is an oversize load driver?

An Oversize Load Driver is responsible for transporting large or heavy cargo that exceeds standard legal size and weight limits. They operate specialized trucks and trailers, following strict safety regulations and obtaining necessary permits for each route. These drivers work closely with escort vehicles and law enforcement to ensure safe transport. Strong driving skills, route planning, and knowledge of load securement are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an oversize load driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Oversize Load Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), thorough knowledge of DOT regulations, and experience handling large, heavy vehicles. Familiarity with route planning software, load securement tools, and safety equipment is crucial, along with any required permits or endorsements for specialized hauls. Excellent situational awareness, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help drivers navigate complex routes and coordinate with escorts and regulatory agencies. These skills ensure the safe and legal transport of oversized loads while minimizing risks to public safety and property.

What are popular job titles related to Oversize Load Driver jobs in Oregon? For Oversize Load Driver jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Oversize Load Driver jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Oversize Load Driver jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Oversize Load Driver jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Oversize Load Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Oversize Load Driver job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,872 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Freight Handler/Forklift Operator-2nd Shift

Forward Air

Portland, OR

$22 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

The Forklift Operator is responsible for the safe, accurate, and efficient loading, unloading, staging, scanning, and movement of freight. As certified forklift operators within the operation, they provide safe, accurate, and efficient loading, unloading, movement, and documentation of cargo/freight within a multimodal transportation terminal, intermodal yard, warehouse, or dock environment, directly contributing to productivity, workflow coordination, and freight integrity. As the most experienced team members without direct reports, they often assist with mentoring, guiding, and onboarding new Material Handlers and solving complex operational problems on the floor. 

Compensation:  $22-23 per hour

Schedule:  Sunday - Thursday, 3PM - 11 PM

Responsibilities

  • Load and unload freight using sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks, along with other appropriate Material Handling Equipment (MHE), such as pallet jacks, carts, and dollies, and approved physical lifting techniques. 
  • Move, stage, sort, and position freight between dock doors, trailers, and designated warehouse areas in accordance with operating procedures.
  • Pick, pack, and prepare items for shipping and delivery.
  • Assist drivers with loading and unloading activities following dock and safety procedures.
  • Label, scan, and track freight using handheld scanning devices and company systems to ensure accuracy and documentation integrity.
  • Identify damaged freight and promptly report issues, unsafe conditions, or equipment concerns to supervisory personnel.
  • Abide by all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and PPE standards.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized dock environment, including work areas, tools, and MHE.
  • Perform tasks under appropriate supervision while learning equipment operation, safety protocols, and job procedures (for developing roles).
  • Support dock productivity, workflow efficiency, and overall operational goals.
  • Work assigned schedules, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime based on business needs.
  • Safely and accurately handle oversized, highvalue, or complex freight.
  • Assist with dock coordination, workflow management, and problem resolution.
  • Prioritize freight and coordinate task assignments, sometimes acting in a lead capacity (without direct supervisory responsibility). 
  • Serve as a subjectmatter expert on dock operations, equipment, and procedures.
  • Train, mentor, and support the development of other Material Handlers.
  • All other duties as assigned to meet evolving business needs.

Qualifications

  • Education: High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED)/equivalent preferred but not required. 
  • Certification/Licensure: Valid forklift certification/licensure (or ability to obtain before operating equipment) required.
  • Experience: 3+ years of dock or warehouse experience required. 
  • Communication: Ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing, to understand safety and operational instructions, work assignments, and freight documentation.
  • Ability to recognize numbers, labels, barcodes, and freight markings accurately, and to perform basic arithmetic to verify freight counts, quantities, and weights.
  • Basic arithmetic skills to verify freight counts, quantities, and weights.
  • Technology: Willingness and ability to learn and use basic computer systems, handheld scanners, and freight-tracking devices.
  • Equipment: Ability to safely operate material handling equipment (MHE) such as pallet jacks, dollies, hand trucks, order pickers, pallet riders, conveyors, dock plates, dock levelers, sit-down/stand-up forklifts and reach trucks (with company-assisted certification/training), and/or other specialized MHE as required by the site.
  • Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance.
  • Physical Demands: Extensive standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and twisting for 8-12 hours per/shift, with the ability to lift, push, pull, and carry freight up to 50lbs without assistance, with occasional lifting of freight up to 75lbs with assistance or mechanical aids throughout each 8-12 hour shift, multiple times per/week. 
  • Vision, hearing, and verbal communication skills sufficient to work safely in a noisy dock environment.
  • Environment: Ability to work safely around moving equipment, vehicles, and freight in a non-climate-controlled environment, including frequent exposure to temperature extremes (both hot and cold), occasional outdoor work and/or exposure to precipitation (rain, sleet, snow, etc.), regular exposure to moving equipment, vehicle traffic, exhaust, dust, and moderate to loud noise.