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Pilot Car Driver Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Benchmark Companies

Lowboy Driver

Christiana, TN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Coordinate with pilot car drivers when required * Perform minor field maintenance and report mechanical issues promptly * Maintain a clean, professional appearance of vehicle and equipment ...

Benchmark Companies

Lowboy Driver

Christiana, TN · On-site

Coordinate with pilot car drivers when required * Perform minor field maintenance and report mechanical issues promptly * Maintain a clean, professional appearance of vehicle and equipment ...

All JobsPilot Car Driver JobsPilot Car Driver Jobs in Tennessee

Pilot Car Driver information

See Tennessee salary details

$44.9K

$118.8K

$182.4K

How much do pilot car driver jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car driver in Tennessee is $118,822.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,800.00 and $140,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pilot car driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pilot Car Driver, you need a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and knowledge of traffic regulations, often supported by state certification or specialized training. Familiarity with two-way radios, GPS navigation systems, and safety equipment is essential for effective communication and route guidance. Strong situational awareness, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help drivers anticipate hazards and coordinate with transport teams. These competencies are crucial to ensure the safe and efficient movement of oversized loads, protecting both the cargo and the public.

What does a pilot car driver do?

As a pilot car driver, your responsibilities may differ depending on the field in which you work. Many pilot car drivers, also known as escort vehicle drivers, work in the transport or freight industry, and their duties are to escort oversized trucks or trucks carrying large loads while on the road. Your duties include communicating with the truck driver and surveying the roads before a trip to ensure they can handle oversized loads. In the aviation industry, pilot car drivers help guide aircraft around the tarmac.

What is a pilot car driver?

Pilot Car Drivers are professionals who operate vehicles that escort oversized loads or large trucks on public roads. Their primary role is to ensure the safety of the load, the transport crew, and the general public by guiding and warning other motorists of the presence of an oversized vehicle. They communicate with truck drivers, monitor road conditions, and help navigate challenging routes. Pilot Car Drivers must follow state regulations and often require special certifications or permits.

What are some common challenges faced by pilot car drivers and how can they be managed effectively?

Pilot Car Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating unfamiliar routes, maintaining constant communication with truck drivers and law enforcement, and adapting to changing traffic or weather conditions. Staying alert, utilizing GPS and route planning tools, and participating in regular safety training can help manage these challenges. Additionally, building strong teamwork and communication skills is essential, as the role requires frequent coordination with other drivers and transport coordinators to ensure oversized loads move safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Pilot Car Driver vs Escort Vehicle Driver?

AspectPilot Car DriverEscort Vehicle Driver
CertificationsRequired licenses, such as CDL or special permitsSimilar licensing requirements, often including CDL
Work EnvironmentOn highways, escorting oversize loadsOn roads, assisting with large or heavy transports
Industry UsageTransporting oversize loads in construction, logisticsSimilar industries, often used interchangeably
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Pilot Car Drivers and Escort Vehicle Drivers are essential in transporting oversized loads, requiring similar certifications and working environments. They often serve the same industries and are frequently compared by those seeking employment or services in oversize load transportation.

More about Pilot Car Driver jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot Car Driver jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Pilot Car Driver jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Pilot Car Driver jobs in Tennessee? For Pilot Car Driver jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pilot Car Driver jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Pilot Car Driver jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Pilot Car Driver jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Pilot Car Driver job openings:
Pilot Car Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Car Driver job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $118,822 per year, or $57.1 per hour.

Lowboy Driver

Benchmark Companies

Christiana, TN • On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Benchmark Companies is looking for an experienced Lowboy Driver to join our Field Operations Division. You'll be responsible for safely transporting oversized construction equipment — excavators, bulldozers, cranes, and more — to and from job sites across the region. This is a hands-on, high-trust position. You'll work closely with site superintendents, load/unload your own equipment, and coordinate permits for oversized loads. If you take pride in your rig, plan your routes carefully, and have a track record of clean hauls, we want to hear from you. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operate a lowboy/RGN trailer hauling heavy construction equipment up to 80,000+ lbs.
  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections on tractor and trailer
  • Load and secure equipment using chains, binders, and straps per DOT regulations
  • Obtain and comply with oversize/overweight (OS/OW) permits
  • Plan routes considering height, weight, and bridge restrictions
  • Communicate schedule updates to dispatch, customers, and site supervisors
    Maintain accurate HOS logs in compliance with FMCSA/ELD rules
  • Coordinate with pilot car drivers when required
  • Perform minor field maintenance and report mechanical issues promptly
  • Maintain a clean, professional appearance of vehicle and equipment

REQUIREMENTS

  • Valid Class A CDL — no exceptions
  • Minimum 3 years lowboy / heavy haul experience
  • Clean MVR (no more than 2 minor violations in 3 years)
  • DOT medical card, current and valid Proficiency with load securement regulations (49 CFR Part 393)
  • Familiarity with OS/OW permit process in TN, AL, OH, FL, others
  • Ability to pass pre-employment drug screen and background check
  • Physically able to climb, chain and secure loads independently
  • Experience with RGN, drop-deck, and stretch trailers and secure loads independently 
  • Strong communication and time management skills

Preferred Qualifications: 

Experience hauling cranes, excavators, or large dozers (Cat D8+, Komatsu D155+)
▸ Pilot car / escort experience or certification
▸ Hazmat endorsement
▸ Familiarity with ELD systems (Samsara, KeepTruckin, Omnitracs)

Benefit package: 

  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance