1

Pilot Car Driver Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Winch Truck Driver

Odessa, TX · On-site

$1.5K/day

Knowledge of state laws for oversize loads and pilot car requirements by state Apply now or call ... driver jobs, winch truck, winch trucks, oilfield, long-haul trucking, new trucks, brand new ...

Knowledge of state laws for oversize loads and pilot car requirements by state Apply now or call ... driver jobs, winch truck, winch trucks, oilfield, long-haul trucking, new trucks, brand new ...

Based in Pilot Point, TX, you will manage inventory, train and motivate the sales team, and ... Valid driver's license and reliable transportation Benefits * Competitive compensation package

... a pilot car. This individual will have contact with the public and must be able to perform ... CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Possess and maintain a valid Texas driver's license and be ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Pilot Car Driver information

See Texas salary details

$46.1K

$122K

$187.3K

How much do pilot car driver jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for pilot car driver in Texas is $121,969.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,200.00 and $144,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How much can you make being a pilot car driver?

Pilot car drivers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the routes. Overtime, specialized equipment, and certifications can increase earning potential, especially for long-distance or hazardous route escorting.

How much do pilot car drivers make?

Pilot car drivers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the escort jobs. They often need to hold specific certifications and operate specialized vehicles for highway escorting and oversize load transportation.

How much does it cost to become a pilot car driver?

Becoming a pilot car driver typically involves costs for obtaining a special license or certification, which can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the state or region. Additional expenses may include training, insurance, and acquiring a suitable vehicle equipped for escorting oversize loads.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pilot Car Driver jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Pilot Car Driver jobs in Texas are:

What are popular job titles related to Pilot Car Driver jobs in Texas?

For Pilot Car Driver jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pilot Car Driver jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Pilot Car Driver jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Pilot Car Driver jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Pilot Car Driver job openings:

Infographic showing various Pilot Car Driver job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $121,969 per year, or $58.6 per hour.

CDL-A Driver Oversize Loads

New Braunfels, TX • On-site

Explore Industries
Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees

$80K - $110K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

CDL-A Driver Oversize Loads

Join the Explore Industries Team!

At Explore Industries, we're more than just a leader in fiberglass swimming pool design and manufacturingwe're a team driven by respect, integrity, and innovation. We believe in empowering our employees, fostering collaboration, and delivering top-quality products that set industry standards.

We are looking for an experienced CDL-A Driver with oversize load experience to join our team and help deliver our world-class pools and spas to dealers and customers across Texas.

About the Role

As our CDL-A Driver, you'll be on the road delivering fiberglass swimming pools, spas, and equipment. We provide the truck, equipment, and strong back-office support so you can focus on safe, timely deliveries. You'll generally work 4-5 days per week, with minimal overnight stays, meal per diem, and covered hotel and fuel costs.

What You'll Do
  • Safely transport and deliver oversize fiberglass swimming pools, spas, and pool equipment
  • Comply with all driving rules and regulations (size, weight, route designations, parking, and break periods) as well as company policies
  • Maintain accurate DOT driver documentation (ELD and/or written) regarding work/rest periods and mileage
  • Collect, retain, and file delivery records, receipts, and documentation in both hard and electronic formats
  • Assist in route planning and work closely with dispatch, pilot car drivers, dealers, and customers
  • Maneuver vehicles into loading/unloading positions and assist with loading/unloading pools and equipment
  • Provide in-transit communication with dispatch, pilot cars, and police escorts
  • Perform refueling, cleaning, preventative maintenance, and daily vehicle inspections
  • Communicate defects, accidents, or violations promptly and follow post-incident procedures
  • Attend periodic training, including onboard training at our Tennessee facility
What We're Looking ForEducation and Experience
  • Current unrestricted Class A CDL held for 2+ years (able to drive both automatic and manual transmissions)
  • 6 months+ oversize/over-dimensional load experience
  • Clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)
  • Ability to pass drug/alcohol screening and DOT physical
  • TWIC card and unexpired passport preferred
Skills and Qualifications
  • Strong safety focus and commitment to customer service
  • Ability to sit for extended periods, lift a minimum of 75 lbs., climb ladders, and work outside in varying weather conditions
  • Comfortable with overnight stays (we strive for weekend home time, with occasional extended OTR)
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Self-motivated with a positive attitude
Why Explore Industries?

Compensation

  • Annual Range: $80,000 - $110,000 (earnings are based on trips and your time invested)
  • Additional Earnings: Meal per diem, hotel and fuel cost coverage, plus performance bonuses for safety, travel type, and other qualifying trips

Benefits & Additional Compensation

  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
  • Optional life and disability insurance
  • Potential access to other incentives or compensation programs based on role and company policy.

Ready to dive in? If you're a safe, experienced CDL-A driver looking for a stable driving position with strong support and great benefits, we want to hear from you!

Learn more about us at exploreindustries.com.

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.