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Reefer Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Navajo Express

CDL-A OTR Reefer Driver

Gary, IN · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Ask about our lease program on 2024-2026 model trucks Equipment * 53' reefer trailers, 44,500 lb. payload capacity, servicing the contiguous 48states Requirements * Valid Class A CDL * 21 years of ...

Navajo Express

CDL-A OTR Reefer Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Ask about our lease program on 2024-2026 model trucks Equipment * 53' reefer trailers, 44,500 lb. payload capacity, servicing the contiguous 48states Requirements * Valid Class A CDL * 21 years of ...

Navajo Express

CDL-A OTR Reefer Driver

Joliet, IL · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Ask about our lease program on 2024-2026 model trucks Equipment * 53' reefer trailers, 44,500 lb. payload capacity, servicing the contiguous 48states Requirements * Valid Class A CDL * 21 years of ...

Navajo Express

CDL-A OTR Reefer Driver

Elgin, IL · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Ask about our lease program on 2024-2026 model trucks Equipment * 53' reefer trailers, 44,500 lb. payload capacity, servicing the contiguous 48states Requirements * Valid Class A CDL * 21 years of ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Waukegan, IL · 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 ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Cicero, IL · 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 ...

Marten Transport

CDL-A Truck Driver

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

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All JobsReefer Driver JobsReefer Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL

Reefer Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$38

$92

How much do reefer driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for reefer driver in Chicago, IL is $38.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $42.64 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 additional benefits such as overtime and bonuses for safety or efficiency.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,052 per year, or $39 per hour.

CDL-A OTR Reefer Driver - Up to $0.80 CPM - All Miles Paid - Weekly Pay

Truck Driver Nation

Hoffman Estates, IL

$1.3K - $1.7K/wk

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

CDL-A OTR REEFER DRIVER

HIRING AREA: HOFFMAN ESTATES / CHICAGO-AREA DRIVERS

GET PAID FOR THE MILES YOU RUN.

If you're looking for OTR refrigerated freight with strong mileage potential, weekly pay, and equipment built for life on the road, this opportunity deserves a look.

Qualified CDL-A drivers are currently being considered for over-the-road reefer positions operating with consistent refrigerated freight.

PAY OPTIONS

Drivers on qualifying positions may have two compensation options:

Up to $0.80 CPM

Loaded and empty miles paid under qualifying mileage-pay positions

Or 30% of gross revenue on applicable percentage-pay positions

Weekly direct deposit

No escrow deposit on applicable positions

Actual compensation depends on the position, driver qualifications, freight availability, miles operated, and applicable compensation structure. Earnings and mileage are not guaranteed.

EQUIPMENT BUILT FOR OTR

Available equipment may include:

Kenworth T680 tractors

Cummins-powered equipment

Refrigerator

Microwave

Power inverter

Reefer trailers

Specific tractor and equipment availability will be confirmed before assignment.

THE FREIGHT

This is an OTR refrigerated-freight opportunity.

Reefer drivers understand that refrigerated trucking requires dependable communication, attention to appointment times, temperature-sensitive freight awareness, and the ability to handle changing operating conditions professionally.

Consistent freight and mileage opportunities are available on qualifying positions, subject to freight demand and driver availability.

WHO SHOULD APPLY?

We want to hear from CDL-A drivers who are ready to work, communicate professionally, and handle the responsibilities that come with OTR refrigerated freight.

Applicants should have:

Valid Class A CDL

Current DOT medical qualification

Acceptable driving record

Ability to meet applicable DOT and motor-carrier requirements

Ability to operate OTR

Dependable communication

Professional attitude toward customers, dispatch, equipment, and freight

Applicants with previous reefer or OTR experience are encouraged to apply.

Candidates with less experience may also be considered when an applicable position permits it. Final qualification depends on the requirements and approval standards of the motor carrier.

WHAT MATTERS ON THE ROAD

Good OTR drivers aren't only looking at the number printed beside CPM.

You want to know whether the miles are there, whether you're getting paid consistently, what you're driving, whether dispatch communicates with you, and whether the entire opportunity makes sense once you're actually out there working.

Those are the details that matter.

APPLY FOR CONSIDERATION

Submit your application directly through this posting.

Your CDL qualifications, driving history, location, experience, equipment background, and operating preferences will be reviewed against applicable current OTR opportunities.

Submitting an application does not guarantee employment, placement, an interview, specific mileage, compensation, equipment, or carrier acceptance.

SMS COMMUNICATION DISCLOSURE

Applicants may choose to receive SMS/text messages from Truck Driver Nation regarding their application, application status, scheduling, recruiting communications, and applicable driving opportunities. Message frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. SMS consent is optional and is not a condition of applying or being considered for a position.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply