1

Tanker Owner Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CDL A Tanker Driver

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$33 - $38/hr

As an employee-owned and locally operated company, we value our drivers as integral members of our ... Henner Tank Lines maintains year-round, steady work. Vacaville terminal shifts pay $33/hr-$38/hr ...

Job Posting Food Express, Inc. is a family owned and operated dedicated bulk-food grade commodity ... Food Express is hiring tank washers to work weekdays and weekends. Job Requirements: * Safely and ...

Owner-Operator Truck Driver (Own Truck Mandatory) Overview We are seeking a skilled and reliable ... refrigerated trailers, tanker trucks, dump trucks, and roll-off trucks. This role involves ...

Be Seen First

... locally owned and operated fuel transportation company dedicated to safe, reliable, and on-time deliveries. With a 24/7 dispatch team and a modern fleet of 35 tanker trucks--primarily manual ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Tanker Owner Operator information

See California salary details

$1.3K

$4.9K

$5.5K

How much do tanker owner operator jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average weekly pay for tanker owner operator in California is $4,911.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $5,503.85 and $5,503.85 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tanker owner operator?

To thrive as a Tanker Owner Operator, you need a valid CDL with appropriate endorsements, a strong understanding of safe driving practices, and experience handling liquid or hazardous cargo. Proficiency with ELDs (Electronic Logging Devices), GPS navigation systems, and knowledge of DOT regulations are essential, along with certifications such as Hazmat or Tanker endorsements when required. Excellent problem-solving, time management, and interpersonal skills help build strong relationships with clients and ensure efficient load deliveries. These abilities ensure the safe and timely transport of materials while maintaining regulatory compliance and high customer satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by tanker owner operators on the job?

Tanker Owner Operators often face challenges such as managing strict delivery schedules, adapting to fluctuating fuel costs, and maintaining their own equipment to meet industry safety standards. Transporting liquid or hazardous cargo also requires constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols, especially when loading or unloading materials. Additionally, since many Tanker Owner Operators work independently, balancing administrative tasks like invoicing and regulatory paperwork with driving responsibilities can be demanding. However, those who are organized and proactive find the work rewarding and enjoy the autonomy it offers.

How to become a tanker owner operator?

To become a tanker owner operator, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), experience driving large vehicles, and a clean driving record. You must also secure appropriate insurance, purchase or lease a tanker truck, and obtain necessary permits for transporting liquids. Building relationships with shippers and understanding safety regulations are essential for success in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tanker Owner Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Tanker Owner Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Tanker Owner Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Tanker Owner Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Tanker Owner Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $255,385 per year, or $122.8 per hour.

Lease Operator: CDL- A Chemical Tanker Drivers

Reliable Liquid Transport, Inc.

Martinez, CA • On-site

$29.25 - $33.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Lease Operators: CDL-A Chemical Tanker Drivers
Martinez, California | Local and Regional Routes
Reliable Liquid Transport, Inc. is seeking safety-focused, professional owner-operators to transport bulk liquid chemicals from our Martinez, CA terminal. This position involves loading, transporting, and unloading hazardous and non-hazardous liquid products for industrial customers throughout the region.
Chemical tanker experience is preferred, but qualified drivers with related experience may be considered.
Reliable Liquid Transport’s Advantages
  • Weekly settlements
  • Local / regional work
  • Well-maintained tank trailers
  • Free preventative maintenance inspections at our locations
  • Free tractor parking at our locations
  • GPS and electronic logging system provided
  • FRC provided
  • Experienced, supportive dispatch team
Actual settlements vary based on miles, routes, work availability, and other operating factors. Gross settlements are before the owner-operator’s business expenses.
Contractor
· We only contract with corporations (LLC, S-corp, C-corp)
· Driver must be W-2 employee of contractor’s corporation
· Will operate under our MC authority
· Provide qualified driver(s) and tractor(s)
Driver Responsibilities
  • Safely load, transport, and unload bulk liquid chemical products
  • Operate hoses, valves, fittings, pumps, compressors, and related tanker equipment
  • Verify product information, quantities, shipping documents, placards, and delivery instructions before transport
  • Inspect hoses, connections, valves, manways, and other equipment before loading, unloading, and departure
  • Perform required pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the tractor and trailer
  • Follow all DOT and hazardous-materials regulations, as well as customer, site specific, and company safety requirements
  • Properly use required personal protective equipment, including respiratory protection when applicable
  • Prevent spills, product contamination, and accidental releases by following established procedures
  • Immediately report spills, equipment defects, safety concerns, accidents, and delivery discrepancies
  • Maintain accurate electronic logs and comply with hours-of-service requirements
  • Complete and electronically submit bills of lading, delivery receipts, inspection reports, and other load documents daily
  • Use a smartphone application for dispatch communication, documentation, and load updates
  • Communicate professionally with dispatchers, customers, terminal personnel, and other drivers
  • Maintain a safe, courteous, and professional manner whenever representing Reliable Liquid Transport, Inc. and their customers
Driver Qualifications
  • Must be living and working legally in the United States
  • Valid Class A CDL with Hazmat and Tanker endorsements
  • At least three years of commercial driving experience, preferably with tanker equipment
    Applicants with less than three years may be considered based on their overall experience
  • Current TWIC card
  • Current DOT medical certificate
  • Satisfactory motor vehicle record and CSA history, acceptable to our insurance company
  • Be able to pass security checks
  • Drug & alcohol – must be able to pass pre-employment tests (including DOT and customer consortium) and have clean Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse record
  • Have the ability to safely handle hoses, climb ladders, access the top of tanker equipment when permitted, and perform other physical duties associated with loading and unloading
  • Have the ability to wear all required PPE and pass respirator fit testing, including meeting applicable facial-hair requirements
  • Have the ability to communicate (read, write and speak) in English, and understand shipping documents, safety instructions, placards, and customer procedures
  • Have a smartphone capable of running the required driver application
  • Have a strong commitment to safety, reliability, and professional customer service
Tractor Requirements
  • CARB compliant
  • Three-axle tractor
  • Tare weight under 17,400 pounds; tractors weighing up to 18,000 pounds may be considered
  • Maximum height of 11 feet
  • Wheelbase Minimum-210 inches - Maximum 265 inches
  • Adjustable fifth wheel
  • Equipped with a functioning PTO and air compressor
  • Mechanically sound and capable of passing all required inspections
  • IRP and IFTA recommended
How to Apply
1. Complete application online
or
2. Download McLeod Anywhere from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and enter:
SCAC: RLQD
For questions or additional information, contact Chris Henry at cmhenry@rlqd.com


E04JI8009845409abu0