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Owner Operator Tanker Driver Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Killduff, IA · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

A dedicated Driver Support Team is available to help with any concerns that come up, giving Owner Operators the backing they need to run a successful business. Owner Operator Perks & Support

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Waukee, IA · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

A dedicated Driver Support Team is available to help with any concerns that come up, giving Owner Operators the backing they need to run a successful business. Owner Operator Perks & Support

Forward Air

CDL-A Owner Operator Driver

Oakland, IA · On-site

$4.1K - $5.2K/wk

A dedicated Driver Support Team is available to help with any concerns that come up, giving Owner Operators the backing they need to run a successful business. Owner Operator Perks & Support

PTL Owner-Operators

CDL A Owner-Operators

Altoona, IA

$150K/yr

Our Owner Operator program is built around consistent freight, strong support, and the freedom to ... Unlike many carriers, PTL ensures Owner Operators never compete with company drivers for miles

PTL Owner-Operators

CDL A Owner-Operators

Ely, IA

$150K/yr

Our Owner Operator program is built around consistent freight, strong support, and the freedom to ... Unlike many carriers, PTL ensures Owner Operators never compete with company drivers for miles

PTL Owner-Operators

CDL A Owner-Operators

Marion, IA

$150K/yr

Our Owner Operator program is built around consistent freight, strong support, and the freedom to ... Unlike many carriers, PTL ensures Owner Operators never compete with company drivers for miles

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All JobsOwner Operator Tanker Driver JobsOwner Operator Tanker Driver Jobs in Iowa

Owner Operator Tanker Driver information

See Iowa salary details

$1.3K

$4.7K

$5.3K

How much do owner operator tanker driver jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average weekly pay for owner operator tanker driver in Iowa is $4,674.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $5,238.46 and $5,238.46 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an owner operator tanker driver?

Owner Operator Tanker Drivers are professional truck drivers who own or lease their own tanker trucks and operate as independent contractors. They are responsible for transporting liquid or gas cargo, such as fuel, chemicals, or food-grade liquids, in specialized tanker trailers. These drivers not only handle the driving and delivery of materials but also manage the business aspects of their operations, including maintenance, scheduling, and compliance with safety regulations. Owner Operator Tanker Drivers must have specific endorsements on their commercial driver's license (CDL) and adhere to strict safety and environmental standards due to the hazardous nature of many tanker loads.

What does an owner operator tanker driver do?

Owner-operator tanker truck drivers use commercial vehicles to transport liquid cargo, such as oils and fuels, for contract clients. Owner-operators fulfill assignments as an independent contractor, setting their own hours and deciding which assignments they will take. They also load and unload fuels, label the tanker with proper fuel specifications, and communicate with dispatchers about route changes. If they do not own a tanker truck, owner-operators can lease or purchase one from the company to perform essential functions.

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

To excel as an Owner Operator Tanker Driver, you need a valid CDL with tanker and hazmat endorsements, strong driving skills, and experience with liquid cargo transport. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS navigation, and compliance with DOT regulations is essential, along with proper insurance and maintenance knowledge for your vehicle. Exceptional time management, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient delivery of hazardous materials while maintaining legal compliance and client satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by owner operator tanker drivers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Owner Operator Tanker Drivers often face challenges such as maintaining strict safety standards, managing complex schedules, and ensuring timely deliveries, especially when transporting hazardous materials. It is essential to stay updated on safety regulations, invest in regular vehicle maintenance, and develop strong organizational skills to handle paperwork and routing efficiently. Building good relationships with dispatchers and shippers can also help in securing consistent loads and navigating logistical issues. Many drivers find joining industry associations or online forums helpful for sharing tips and staying informed about best practices.

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

AspectOwner Operator Tanker DriverTruck Driver
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), tanker endorsementCDL, possibly tanker endorsement
Work EnvironmentTransporting liquids in tanker trucks, often long haulsDriving various trucks, including dry vans, flatbeds, or tankers
Employer & IndustryIndependent owner-operators or small fleet owners in transportation and logisticsEmployers in freight, logistics, and transportation industries

Owner Operator Tanker Drivers typically operate their own tanker trucks, focusing on transporting liquids like fuel or chemicals, often on long routes. Truck Drivers may work for a company, driving different types of trucks, including tankers, but usually do not own their vehicles. Both roles require a CDL and tanker endorsement, but Owner Operators have additional responsibilities for vehicle maintenance and business management.

More about Owner Operator Tanker Driver jobs

What are popular job titles related to Owner Operator Tanker Driver jobs in Iowa?

For Owner Operator Tanker Driver jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Owner Operator Tanker Driver jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Owner Operator Tanker Driver jobs in Iowa are:

Owner Operator Tanker Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Owner Operator Tanker Driver job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $243,057 per year, or $116.9 per hour.

Class A Fuel Tanker Driver - Des Moines, IA (Night Shift)

Loves Travel Stops & Country Store

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$30 - $31/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Love's Travel Stops rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 799 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

402nd of 734 rated retailers

Job description

Req ID: 488265
Employee Benefits: * Fuel Your Growth with Love's - company funded tuition assistance * Paid Time Off * 401(k) - 100% Match up to 5% * Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance after 30 days * Competitive Pay * Career Development *
  • Drivers are paid between $30-$31 per hour depending on scheduled shift and location
  • Overtime pay starting at 40 hours worked per week
  • Drivers are eligible for monthly and annual bonuses
  • $1,500 Sign On Bonus (First half of sign-on bonus to be paid out at 90 days; second half to be paid out at 180 days of active employment)
  • Availability to work variable shifts as dictated by business needs. Typical shift for this position is Tuesday-Saturday Night Shift-start time 4PM (SUN/MON OFF)

Welcome to Gemini Motor Transport!: Gemini Motor Transport is a nationwide for-hire fuel, crude and specialty products motor carrier. Our modern fleet is equipped with industry-leading safety features and top-level technology, and we strive to achieve only the highest safety ratings in our business for our professional drivers and loyal customers.
Job Functions:
  • At all times drive defensively and follow all applicable laws and regulations to maintain Gemini's reputation as one of the safest tank carriers.
  • Drives company trucks to load and deliver fuel and commodities to Love's retail and various third party customers. Gemini operates 24/7/365.
  • Have knowledge of and comply with, all applicable federal, state, local and company rules and regulations that are in accordance with the accepted principals of the safe operation of a hazardous cargo tank motor vehicle.
  • Have knowledge and comply with the proper methods of loading and unloading for the various cargos to be transported.
  • Maintain contact with logistics as needed and required.
  • Complete driver electronic logs and all necessary documentation as required by company.
  • Follow all company guidelines regarding professional conduct when dealing with customers, fellow employees, vendors, and the motoring public.

Document Requirements:
  • Each driver must have a Commercial Driver's License and other appropriate endorsements (HazMat, Tanker, Doubles/Triples) and state requirements as required by law.
  • Each driver must qualify physically, and obtain a Medical Examiner's Certificate, under the requirements of 49 CFR, Section 391 43-49 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

Experience and Qualifications:
  • 1-2 years of verifiable over-the-road driving experience or certification from accredited truck driving academy.
  • Knowledge of all applicable DOT and Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

Background Checks: All offers of employment may be conditioned on receipt of a background check report and/or drug screen that is acceptable to Love's.
Skills and Physical Demands:
  • Availability to work variable shifts as dictated by business needs.
  • The ability to drive for up to 11 hours and work a total of 14 hours, while transporting hazardous materials and sitting for extended periods of time in a truck tractor.
  • Must be at least 21 years of age and meet the qualifications in 49 CFR Section 391.11(b)(1) of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language, in accordance with 49CFR Section 391.11(b)(2) of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
  • The ability to walk, bend, reach, push, stoop, squat, and climb, as necessary, to perform vehicle inspections required under 49 CFR Sections 396.11-15 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
  • The ability to walk, bend, reach, push, stoop, squat, as well as grasp, lift, and handle heavy equipment as necessary, to ensure safety during the hooking and dropping processes of tractor/trailer combinations. As well as climb upon the trailer when necessary (for instance, to ensure closure of dome lids following loading or unloading), also when dealing with sections of hose that may exceed 20' in length, measure as many as 4" in diameter, and weigh as much as 75 lbs.
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate a computer keyboard and calculator.
  • Requires normal range of hearing, vision, and smell.

Our Culture:
Fueling customers' journeys since 1964, innovation leads the way for this family-owned and operated business headquartered in Oklahoma City. With nearly 40,000 team members, travel stops are the core business along with products and services that provide value for professional drivers, fleets, traveling public, RVers, alternative energy and wholesale fuel customers. Giving back to communities and an inclusive workplace are hallmarks of the award-winning culture.
Love's is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans encouraged to apply.
Job Category: Gemini

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