ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Owner Operator Contract Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

STG Logistics

Owner Operator

Chicago, IL

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 ...

STG Logistics

Owner Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

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 ...

STG Logistics

Owner Operator

Mccook, IL · On-site

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 ...

STG Logistics

Owner Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOwner Operator Contract JobsOwner Operator Contract Jobs in Illinois

Owner Operator Contract information

See Illinois salary details

$624

$4.3K

$7.4K

How much do owner operator contract jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average weekly pay for owner operator contract in Illinois is $4,259.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,328.85 and $6,336.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an owner operator contract?

An Owner Operator Contract is a formal agreement between a trucking company and an independent truck driver (the owner-operator) who owns and operates their own vehicle. This contract outlines the terms under which the owner-operator provides transportation services, including payment rates, responsibilities, and duration of the agreement. It also covers details such as insurance requirements, maintenance obligations, and how disputes are resolved. Owner operator contracts are essential for defining the working relationship and ensuring both parties understand their rights and duties.

How can I get an owner operator contract job?

The primary qualifications for getting an owner operator contract job are owning your own vehicle and meeting driver safety requirements. These vary by company, but they usually include having no more than two moving violations in the last three years. Many companies also have recent experience requirements, such as a set number of months working in the last few years, so some owner operators start by tagging along with another driver before moving to independent work. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of an owner operator contract job requires communication skills, negotiation skills, driving skills, and the ability to adjust your schedule in order to secure each contract.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an owner operator contract, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Owner Operator under contract, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), experience in freight transport, and strong business management skills. Familiarity with logistics software, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and understanding of Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations are essential. Excellent time management, customer service, and problem-solving abilities help you build client relationships and navigate challenges on the road. These skills are vital for ensuring safe, efficient deliveries while maintaining profitability and compliance in a competitive transportation industry.

What are some common challenges owner operator contractors face when managing both driving and business operations?

Owner Operator Contractors often juggle the demands of driving with running their own businesses, which can be challenging. They are responsible for everything from maintaining their vehicles and managing expenses to finding loads and ensuring compliance with regulations. Time management is crucial, as administrative tasks like invoicing, accounting, and scheduling must be balanced with time on the road. Successful Owner Operators often develop strong organizational skills and may use software or hire professionals to help with bookkeeping and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Owner Operator Contract vs Truck Driver?

AspectOwner Operator ContractTruck Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), business registrationCDL, basic driving skills
Work EnvironmentOwn truck, independent or contracted workCompany-owned trucks, employee status
Employer/Industry UsageFreight, logistics, transportation companiesSame as owner operators, often employed by carriers

Owner Operator Contracts involve individuals who own their trucks and work independently or under contract, managing their own business. Truck Drivers typically work for a company, driving company-owned trucks as employees. The main difference lies in ownership, independence, and contractual obligations, with owner operators having more control and responsibility over their work.

More about Owner Operator Contract jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Owner Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Owner Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Owner Operator Contract jobs in Illinois?

For Owner Operator Contract jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Owner Operator Contract jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Owner Operator Contract jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Owner Operator Contract jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Owner Operator Contract job openings:

Owner Operator Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Owner Operator Contract job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $221,495 per year, or $106.5 per hour.

Owner Operator

STG Logistics

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 5 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