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Reefer Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CDL-A Truck Driver

Norwalk, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Hesperia, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Reseda, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

San Diego, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Westminster, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Lynwood, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Rialto, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Bell Gardens, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Fremont, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Lancaster, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

CDL-A Truck Driver

Fontana, CA · On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year* Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A). Applicants must have a minimum of 6 ...

Showing results 21-40

Reefer Driver information

See California salary details

$13

$37

$88

How much do reefer driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for reefer driver in California is $37.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $40.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reefer driver?

Reefer drivers are professional truck drivers who operate refrigerated trucks, commonly known as 'reefers.' These vehicles are equipped with refrigeration units to transport perishable goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive products. Reefer drivers are responsible for ensuring that cargo remains at the required temperature throughout the journey and that deliveries are made on time. Their job often involves monitoring temperature settings, performing regular equipment checks, and complying with safety and transportation regulations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a reefer driver?

To thrive as a Reefer Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of refrigerated freight handling. Familiarity with reefer unit controls, temperature monitoring systems, and electronic logging devices (ELDs) is essential. Strong time management, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help drivers coordinate deliveries and maintain cargo integrity. These skills and qualities ensure perishable goods are delivered safely, on time, and in compliance with industry regulations.

What challenges do reefer drivers face and how can they be managed?

Reefer Drivers often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent temperature control for perishable cargo and managing tight delivery schedules. Unexpected equipment malfunctions or delays can add pressure, so drivers must regularly monitor refrigeration units and communicate promptly with dispatch if issues arise. Building a routine for pre-trip inspections and keeping detailed logs helps ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Collaboration with warehouse staff for efficient loading and unloading is also vital to protect product integrity.

What is the difference between Reefer Driver vs Flatbed Driver?

AspectReefer DriverFlatbed Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), possibly hazardous materials endorsementCDL, possibly additional endorsements for oversized loads
Work EnvironmentTransporting refrigerated goods, often in controlled climate conditionsHauling large, heavy, or irregularly shaped loads on open flatbeds
Industry UsageFood, pharmaceuticals, perishable goodsConstruction materials, machinery, large equipment

Reefer Drivers primarily transport temperature-sensitive goods in refrigerated trailers, requiring climate control and specific certifications. Flatbed Drivers handle large, heavy, or awkward loads on open trailers, often needing different endorsements. Both roles are essential in logistics but differ mainly in cargo type and work environment.

How much do reefer drivers make?

Reefer drivers typically earn between $45,000 and $75,000 annually, with experienced drivers and those working longer hours or in high-demand regions earning higher wages. Compensation often includes base pay, per-mile rates, and bonuses, and may require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and experience with refrigerated freight.

What are the most commonly searched types of Reefer Driver jobs in California?

The most popular types of Reefer Driver jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Reefer Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Reefer Driver jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Reefer Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,591 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

CDL-A Truck Driver

Marten Transport

Norwalk, CA • On-site

$54K - $96K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Marten Transport rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

214th of 364 rated logistics


Job description

Marten Transport is Now Urgently Hiring CDL-A Reefer Truck Drivers! Top Pay Without the Typical Reefer Headaches - Earn $54,600 - $96,000 per Year*
Applicants must have a current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A).Applicants must have a minimum of 6 months of recent qualified CDL-A driving experience.

Now hiring Class A truck drivers. You can expect excellent earning power, unbeatable support, and home time to fit your life. Learn more today!


Top Benefits:
  • Earn $54,600-$96,000* per year
  • Earn $1,050-$1,846* per week
  • Potential additional detention, inclement weather, & layover pay 
  • Typical home time varies by region — ask a recruiter for specifics
  • Hiring bonus & tuition assistance
  • Full benefits: health, dental, vision, & disability insurance
  • 401(k) with company match & paid time off
  • Company-paid life insurance

(*based on region & time out)


Driver Perks:
  • Consistent routes with plenty of miles
  • Drop-and-hook freight for faster turnarounds
  • Long-term stability with a secure company
  • Driver Comfort: Late-model equipment (average 2 years or newer) with APUs, automatic transmissions, grille guards, and more
  • Drivewyze carrier


Additional Pay Opportunities:
  • Detention pay: $0 - $160 per 24-hour period
  • Inclement weather pay: $0 - $200 per day
  • Layover pay: $0 - $200 per day
  • Referral bonus: $0 - $2,500 per referral with unlimited earning potential


Expect the Best When You Join Marten Transport – Marten Transport is Urgently Hiring - Apply Now!


Additional Benefits:
  • Guaranteed minimum pay
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Health Savings Account
  • Pet policy
  • Free rider program
  • Top speed 65MPH / 68MPH passing
  • Free CPAP testing and supplies
  • Employee discount program
  • Free lifeworks support (mental health, financial, legal & more)


About Marten Transport:

We’re proud to be recognized as an Elite Fleet by the Truckload Carriers Association for offering a best-in-class work environment, competitive compensation, and innovative practices for our drivers.

We still feel like the family business that started it all in 1946 with a single milk truck in rural Wisconsin. And like family, we look out for each other—drivers, customers and investors. We have one of the lowest turnover rates in the industry with over 400 million-mile drivers.

Are you getting the very best your carrier has to offer? If you feel you’ve had to lower your career expectations, it’s time to take a look at the reefer driver opportunities with Marten Transport where you can EXPECT THE BEST!


Requirements:
  • A current Interstate Commercial Driver's License (Class A)
  • Minimum 4 months of recent qualified CDL-A driving experience - Marten does not provide CDL training
  • Ability to work and interact with others

Expect the Best When You Join Marten Transport – Apply Now!
Home time and pay may vary by hiring area and specific route details, apply now to ask a recruiter for detailsBackground check required. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, or other applicable laws. Marten will make an individualized assessment of whether your conviction history has a direct or adverse relationship with the specific duties of the job, and consider potential mitigating factors, including, but not limited to, evidence and extent of rehabilitation, recency of the offense(s), and age at the time of the offense(s).

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