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Owner Operator Jobs in Laurel, MS (NOW HIRING)

CRST

CDL A Owner Operator Truck Driver

Hattiesburg, MS · On-site

$8.0K - $10K/wk

CRST Specialized Solutions is looking for independent contractor teams (Owner Operators) to haul specialty freight across the country. As a Specialized contractor, you choose your home time, loads ...

CRST

CDL A Owner Operator Truck Driver

Hattiesburg, MS

$8.0K - $10K/wk

CRST Specialized Solutions is looking for independent contractor teams (Owner Operators) to haul specialty freight across the country. As a Specialized contractor, you choose your home time, loads ...

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All JobsOwner Operator JobsOwner Operator Jobs in Laurel, MS

Owner Operator information

See Laurel, MS salary details

$556

$3.8K

$6.6K

How much do owner operator jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average weekly pay for owner operator in Laurel, MS is $3,795.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,075.00 and $5,646.15 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an owner operator do?

The term Owner-Operator refers to a trucking professional who owns their truck and drives it as an independent contractor. Many companies hire independent operators to haul goods for them. Using contractors allows construction companies to keep pace with the rise and fall of demand for their products without the overhead cost of maintaining a fleet of vehicles that may be insufficient in one season and excessive in another. Owner-Operators need to hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in the class that allows them to drive their vehicle and have sufficient training in operating and maintaining the machine. They can choose their own schedule and pick which jobs to take.

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

To thrive as an Owner Operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), strong knowledge of transportation regulations, and experience in truck driving and logistics. Familiarity with fleet management software, GPS navigation systems, and compliance tools like electronic logging devices (ELDs) is essential. Excellent time management, business acumen, and customer service skills help set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient operations and building a successful, profitable transportation business.

Are owner operators making money?

Owner operators can make a profit depending on factors such as freight rates, operating costs, and efficiency. Successful owner operators typically manage expenses like fuel, maintenance, and insurance while securing consistent loads and maintaining good driving records. Earnings vary widely based on experience, routes, and market conditions.

What is an owner operator?

Owner operators are independent truck drivers or small business owners who own and operate their own commercial vehicles. They either lease their services to larger freight carriers or contract directly with clients to transport goods. Unlike company drivers, owner operators are responsible for managing their own business expenses, such as fuel, maintenance, insurance, and taxes. This role offers more autonomy and the potential for higher earnings, but it also comes with greater financial risk and responsibility.

What is the difference between Owner Operator vs Truck Driver?

AspectOwner OperatorTruck Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), business registrationCDL, basic driving license
Work EnvironmentOwn truck, self-managed scheduleCompany-owned trucks, set schedules
EmployerSelf-employed or independent contractorEmployers or carriers
Work FlexibilityHigh, controls own routes and hoursLimited, dictated by employer

Owner Operators own and operate their trucks, managing their own schedules and business. Truck Drivers typically work for a company, following set routes and schedules. The main difference lies in independence and business ownership, with Owner Operators having more control but also more responsibilities.

What are common challenges owner operators face when managing their own trucking business?

Owner Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining cash flow, managing fluctuating fuel costs, and ensuring their vehicles are properly maintained to avoid unexpected downtime. Balancing administrative tasks—like scheduling, invoicing, and compliance—with time on the road can also be demanding. Building relationships with reliable clients or brokers and navigating complex regulations are crucial for long-term success. Staying organized and proactive in handling these responsibilities helps Owner Operators thrive in a competitive industry.
More about Owner Operator jobs
What cities near Laurel, MS are hiring for Owner Operator jobs? Cities near Laurel, MS with the most Owner Operator job openings:
Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Owner Operator job openings in Laurel, MS as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $197,385 per year, or $94.9 per hour.

Owner Operator Truck Drivers

Panther Premium Logistics

Waynesboro, MS

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Panther Premium Logistics rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Put your truck to work with Panther. We have the support, the miles, and the pay you need to succeed in the owner-operator space. Enjoy predictable home time, weekly settlements, 99% no-touch freight, and more. We're with you every step of the way.

New Rate Increase and Sign-On Bonus for 2026!

Panther Premium Logistics is now offering a rate increase for Tractor and Straight Truck Owners. Call now to learn more about this exciting offer while it lasts!

  • NEW Sign-On Bonus!
  • $5,000 for Solo Truck Owners

Pay & Benefits

Run your own profitable business

Work for yourself, see the country and set your own schedule. As a Panther owner-operator, you'll run under our operating authority while maintaining full control of your business as an independent contract carrier. You'll also gain access to significant cost saving benefits for insurance, trailer fees, fuel and more.

Choose your own loads through our ArcBest truckload board, accept shipment offers with no forced dispatch through our Panther expedite solution, or get assigned scheduled lanes through our Dedicated all-miles paid program - there are plenty of opportunities to keep your truck moving.

Start a rewarding career

  • Earn top pay for safe, precise, on-time delivery, and stay as busy as you want
  • Set your own schedule
  • 99% no-touch, high-value expedite freight
  • Weekly settlements
  • Access to our driver support team 24/7/365
  • We provide a fuel surcharge along with your standard rate per shipment
  • Straight truck & cargo van positions available

Requirements

  • CDL-A + 6 months minimum experience*
  • At least 21 years of age
  • No DUI or drug convictions in the last 5 years
  • No felonies in the last 10 years
  • *No experience necessary for straight trucks or cargo vans

What Panther Premium Logistics employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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