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Per Diem Driver Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

superiorplus

Transport Driver

Merced, CA

$29 - $32/hr

Per Diem pay per night. Why join us: Culture: Join a supportive and inclusive work environment ... Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with HAZMAT, Air Brake and Tanker Endorsements • ...

Superior Plus Propane

Transport Driver

Merced, CA · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

Per Diem pay per night. Why join us: Culture: Join a supportive and inclusive work environment ... Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with HAZMAT, Air Brake and Tanker Endorsements • ...

superiorplus

Transport Driver

Merced, CA

$29 - $32/hr

Per Diem pay per night. Why join us: Culture: Join a supportive and inclusive work environment ... Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with HAZMAT, Air Brake and Tanker Endorsements • ...

superiorplus

Transport Driver

Merced, CA

$29 - $32/hr

Per Diem pay per night. Why join us: Culture: Join a supportive and inclusive work environment ... Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with HAZMAT, Air Brake and Tanker Endorsements • ...

superiorplus

Transport Driver

Merced, CA · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

Per Diem pay per night. Why join us: Culture: Join a supportive and inclusive work environment ... Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with HAZMAT, Air Brake and Tanker Endorsements • ...

Superior Plus Propane

Transport Driver

Merced, CA · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

Per Diem pay per night. Why join us: Culture: Join a supportive and inclusive work environment ... Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with HAZMAT, Air Brake and Tanker Endorsements • ...

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All JobsPer Diem Driver JobsPer Diem Driver Jobs in Merced, CA

Per Diem Driver information

See Merced, CA salary details

$5

$15

How much do per diem driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem driver in Merced, CA is $15.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $15.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a per diem driver?

Per diem drivers are professional drivers who work on an as-needed or daily basis, rather than as full-time or part-time employees. They are typically hired by companies to cover shifts, fill in for regular drivers, or handle extra workloads during busy periods. Per diem drivers may transport goods, passengers, or provide delivery services, depending on the employer's needs. This flexible role allows drivers to choose assignments that fit their schedule, making it ideal for those seeking supplemental income or a non-traditional work arrangement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem driver?

To thrive as a Per Diem Driver, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and familiarity with local traffic laws and routes. Experience with GPS navigation systems and, in some cases, a commercial driver's license (CDL) or training on specific vehicle types may be required. Excellent time management, reliability, and strong customer service skills help drivers adapt to varying schedules and interact positively with clients. These abilities ensure safe, efficient transportation and high satisfaction for both employers and passengers.

What are some common challenges faced by per diem drivers and how can they be managed?

Per Diem Drivers often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying schedules, unfamiliar routes, and working with new teams regularly. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential to manage last-minute assignments and different expectations at each location. Utilizing GPS technology and maintaining a proactive approach to learning new routes can help minimize delays. Building a good rapport with dispatchers and team members also contributes to smoother, more enjoyable workdays.

What is the difference between Per Diem Driver vs Contract Driver?

AspectPer Diem DriverContract Driver
CredentialsValid driver's license, clean driving recordValid driver's license, possibly additional certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-demand, flexible schedules, various locationsScheduled routes, specific contracts, company vehicles
Employer & Industry UsageTransportation, delivery, healthcare (e.g., per diem shifts)Logistics, freight, delivery services

Per Diem Drivers typically work on a flexible, on-demand basis, often without long-term commitments, and are paid per day or shift. Contract Drivers usually have scheduled routes under specific contracts, often with more stability but less flexibility. Both roles require a valid driver's license and driving experience, but their work arrangements and employer relationships differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Driver jobs in Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Driver jobs in Merced, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Per Diem Driver jobs in Merced, CA?

For Per Diem Driver jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Per Diem Driver jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Per Diem Driver jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Per Diem Driver jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Per Diem Driver job openings:

Per Diem Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Per Diem Driver job openings in Merced, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,680 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

CDL A OTR Team Company Drivers

New Legend Inc

Merced, CA

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Requirements:

•12 Months Verifiable CDL A Experience Required

•Clean MVR & PSP

•Must be at least 23 years old

•Must Meet FMCSA Requirements

Job Description:

Company Teams Only .80CPM Split Running I5 $6K Weekly Gross$10K Retention Bonus!!!!

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•Drivers Must Have 12 Months Experience

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•

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AVERAGE 7,000+ miles per week

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.80 CPM Split (Additional: .2 CPM Fuel + .2 CPM Safety + .2CPM For Veteran Service)

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Paid Orientation

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Hazmat Endorsement holders + $75.00 for every Placarded Hazmat Load

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$250.00 Driver Referral, paid out after 30 days

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Generous bonus plan – Up to .04 cpm monthly – easily obtainable

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Veterans receive an additional .02 cpm as a thank you for your service.

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Medical Dental, Vision, short, long-term disability, and MORE available

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401K Program

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Company Paid Life Insurance

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2022 and Newer 

Freightliner Cascadia and Kenworth’s

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Refrigerators

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No Touch Freight

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 Passenger Program

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Pet-Friendly! 

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2 Day Orientation, Travel, Lodging, Lunch Provided

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Assigned Equipment, Assigned Dispatcher, Fuel Card

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Bilingual Driver managers

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Monthly Truck Wash

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No Slip Seating

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Weekly Pay, Optional Per Diem

Se Habla Espanol! Bilingual Recruiters

Call (480) 613-7676 or Apply Now!

At Legend, you're not just a number - you're the heart of our operation. We prioritize safety, reliability, and clear communication above all. Our fleet is well-maintained, our support teams are responsive, and we respect your time on and off the road. Recognized as one of the Top 100 For-Hire Carriers four years in a row, Legend continues to grow because of the professional, hardworking drivers who make it all possible.If you’re a safe, dependable driver looking for a company that truly has your back, join us today and see why they call Legend “The Whale of the West.” Apply now and become part of something legendary.