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Reefer Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Reefer Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$39

$92

How much do reefer driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for reefer driver in Chicago, IL is $39.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.81 and $42.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are reefer drivers?

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 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.

What are some common challenges faced by Reefer Drivers, and how can they be managed on the job?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Reefer Driver, and why are they important?

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 are popular job titles related to Reefer Driver jobs in Chicago, IL? For Reefer Driver jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reefer Driver jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Reefer Driver jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Reefer Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reefer Driver job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,126 per year, or $39 per hour.
CDL A night Reefer Driver - Bartlett, IL

CDL A night Reefer Driver - Bartlett, IL

Get Fresh Produce

Bartlett, IL • On-site

$28.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Get Fresh Produce, a company owned by FreshEdge LLC, is currently hiring CDL A Local Night Reefer Drivers in Bartlett, IL. The company operates a modern distribution fleet consisting of 125 fully refrigerated trucks and tractors which are regularly maintained and fueled on-site. As a company that values innovation, we equip our drivers with individual tablets to process deliveries electronically, track their routes and hours of service, and communicate with the team.

At Get Fresh Produce, we believe in Fresh Thinking, which is why we strive to work efficiently, creatively, and meticulously to meet the needs of our customers. Our focus is on ensuring consistency in the areas that matter most to our customers, such as customer service, quality, food safety, reporting, and technology.

Compensation:

  • Average Annual Earnings: $85,000+
    • Hourly Base Rate determined based on license type with an average of 40-55 hours per week:
    • CDL A Night Shift: $28.75/hour
    • Overtime paid after 40 hours worked
    • Opportunity for advancement
    • Paid via direct deposit weekly

Benefits & Perks:

  • Great company benefits starting after 60 days of employment on the 1st of the month:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    • Life Insurance
    • 401K with a company match - After 1 year
    • Union Position
  • Paid Personal and Vacation Days: available to start earning after 120 days
  • Paid Holidays: available after 120 days

Home Time, Route & Schedule:

  • Home Time: Home Daily
  • Schedule: 5-Day Work Week
  • Night Shift: Sunday - Friday
  • Off Saturday and one other day during the week
  • Shift: Start times may vary but are typically
  • Night Shift: 9:00pm - 11:00pm start times
  • Route: Drivers will drive throughout the Midwest surrounding area making deliveries dispatch point is Bartlett area
  • Must be flexible with route changes
  • 4-10 stops per night
  • Level of Touch: Touch Freight/ making deliveries using a 2 wheel dolly
  • Hand delivery to restaurants using hand-cart/2-wheel dolly, ramps
  • Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 75lbs with no assistance

Equipment:

  • Conventional Tractor or Refer Box Trucks
  • Transmission: Automatic & Manual available

Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Must have CDL A license
  • It is preferred drivers have 6-months of verifiable tractor-trailer driving experience, though not required
    • New grads are encouraged to apply
  • Air-brakes endorsements required
  • Must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) testing and physical requirements and be knowledgeable of DOT regulations
  • Must be able to pass a required pre-employment drug screen
  • Must be able to lift and/or move up to 75lbs
  • Hiring Radius: Drivers must live within 40 miles of Bartlett, IL or be willing to relocate for this position

Physical abilities are commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, and use hands to grasp, manipulate or feel objects.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws and ordinances.