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Truck Driver Trainee Jobs in Rantoul, IL (NOW HIRING)

Truck Driver

Urbana, IL · On-site

$32.27/hr

Job Summary Truck Driver (CDL) Department: Delivery Reports To: Manager Plant Operations / Assistant Manager Plant Operations FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Company Summary EMJ is a leading supplier of ...

Regional Truck Driver

Champaign, IL

$1.3K - $1.6K/wk

Looking for intermodal truck driving jobs? J.B. Hunt is hiring regional CDL-A drivers! Drive with J.B. Hunt Intermodal and enjoy express access railyard gates, onsite maintenance and 100% company ...

Your Experience is WORTH MORE at Whiteline With our newly announced experience-based driver pay + weekly mileage incentives CDL A Truck Drivers can now Earn up to $0.70 CPMA Pay Program That Rewards ...

New

Driver referral program * Medical, dental & vision benefits * 401(k) with company match CDL-A Truck Driver Requirements: * CDL-A * 12 months recent and verifiable tractor/trailer experience * Ability ...

TransAm Trucking Company Truck Driver Jobs TransAm Trucking is now hiring company CDL-A truck drivers for long-haul career opportunities! Apply today and enjoy life on the road with competitive pay ...

Showing results 21-40

Truck Driver Trainee information

See Rantoul, IL salary details

$23.2K

$46.4K

$61.7K

How much do truck driver trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for truck driver trainee in Rantoul, IL is $46,373.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,100.00 and $53,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a truck driver trainee?

Truck Driver Trainees are individuals who are undergoing training to become licensed professional truck drivers. They typically participate in a structured program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on driving experience, often under the supervision of experienced drivers or instructors. The goal of the trainee phase is to prepare individuals for the commercial driver’s license (CDL) exam and to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate large commercial vehicles safely and efficiently. Upon successful completion of training and obtaining a CDL, trainees can transition to full-time truck driving positions. Training programs may vary in length and requirements depending on the employer and state regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a truck driver trainee?

To thrive as a Truck Driver Trainee, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, basic mechanical knowledge, and the physical ability to handle long hours on the road. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is typically required, and progressing toward a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is essential. Strong attention to detail, dependability, and effective communication help trainees adapt quickly and ensure safety. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant transport of goods while developing a successful long-term driving career.

What kind of mentorship or support can truck driver trainees expect during their initial training period?

Truck Driver Trainees typically receive hands-on guidance from experienced drivers or dedicated trainers, often through a structured mentorship program. During the initial weeks, trainees usually ride alongside a mentor, learning essential driving techniques, safety protocols, and company procedures. This period allows for real-time feedback, Q&A, and gradual increase in responsibility. Support also extends to classroom sessions covering regulations and logbook management, ensuring trainees are well-prepared before driving solo.

What is the difference between Truck Driver Trainee vs Truck Driver?

AspectTruck Driver TraineeTruck Driver
Required CertificationsCommercial Learner's Permit, CDL trainingValid CDL license, experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, supervised drivingOn-road, long-haul or local routes
Employer UsageEntry-level, training programsFull-time professional drivers

Truck Driver Trainee is an entry-level position focused on training and gaining experience, while Truck Driver is a fully licensed professional responsible for transporting goods independently. Trainees typically undergo CDL training and supervised driving, whereas experienced drivers operate independently on various routes. The roles are connected, with trainees progressing to become full Truck Drivers after completing training and gaining experience.

How do you become a truck driver trainee with no experience?

To become a truck driver trainee with no experience, you typically need a valid driver's license and may be required to obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP). Enrolling in a truck driving school or training program provides the necessary skills and knowledge, and some employers offer paid or unpaid training programs for beginners.

What are the most commonly searched types of Truck Driver jobs in Rantoul, IL?

The most popular types of Truck Driver jobs in Rantoul, IL are:

What cities near Rantoul, IL are hiring for Truck Driver Trainee jobs?

Cities near Rantoul, IL with the most Truck Driver Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Truck Driver Trainee job openings in Rantoul, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,373 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Truck Driver

reliance

Urbana, IL • On-site

$32.27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Job Summary
Truck Driver (CDL)
Department: Delivery
Reports To: Manager Plant Operations / Assistant Manager Plant Operations
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Company Summary
EMJ is a leading supplier of Steel and Aluminum Bar, Tubing, and Plate to manufacturing
companies in North America and around the world. Our broad network of facilities,
superior inventories, extensive value-added processing capabilities, and world-class
technology enables EMJ to provide unsurpassed service to our customers.
Job Summary
The Truck Driver (CDL) is responsible for operating commercial vehicles with a gross
vehicle weight rating over 26,001 lbs. to deliver or pick up merchandise, materials, and
equipment to assigned destinations in a timely and professional manner. This role includes
driving, securing loads, completing logs and reports, performing vehicle inspections, and
complying with all FMCSA and company safety regulations. Drivers may be required to load
and unload materials, operate equipment such as cranes or forklifts, and represent the
company at customer sites. This is a full-time position with a typical 10-hour workday.
Approximately 80% of the duties are performed outdoors.
What We Offer
• This position is represented by a collective bargaining agreement, and benefits are provided
through the union. Benefit offerings may include health, retirement, and other programs.
Specific benefit details are available through the union's benefits office.
• Company-paid basic long-term disability (LTD) coverage.
• Option to elect supplemental life, AD&D, and long-term disability coverage for yourself, your
spouse/domestic partner, and dependents.
• 401(k) plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), including counseling, legal, and financial support.
• Community engagement and volunteer opportunities.
Physical Requirements / Work Environment
This position is classified as Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally,
up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move
objects.
Physical Requirements
Walk(Move, Traverse), Use hand/fingers to handle or feel (Operate, Activate, Use, Prepare, Inspect, Place, Detect, Position), Stand or Sit(Stationary position), Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance (Ascend/Descend, Work atop, Traverse), Stoop, kneel, crouch, or Crawl(Position self(to), Move), Talk/hear(Communicate, Detect, Converse with, Discern, Convey, Express oneself, Exchange information), See (Detect, Determine, Perceive, Identify, Recognize, Judge, Observe, Inspect, Estimate, Assess), Pushing or Pulling, Reaching
Function in the Job
Medium work - Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Job Function
Essential Job Duties
• Drive tractor trailers to deliver steel and materials over 100 miles daily.
• Perform daily vehicle inspections as defined by the FMCSA to ensure roadworthiness
and safety.
• Use electronic logging devices (ELDs) to log activities as required by the FMCSA.
• Secure loads using appropriate equipment such as chains, straps, tarps, and ensure
cargo is safe for transit.
• Complete delivery paperwork including mileage, load weight, time logs, and obtain
customer signatures.
• Perform minor maintenance checks on equipment (e.g., tires, lights, brakes, oil, water).
• Communicate with dispatch for new pickups, delivery instructions, or updates.
• Represent the company at customer sites in a professional manner and ensure
paperwork is submitted properly.
• Adhere to all DOT and company regulations and safety standards.
• Match invoices with bills and ensure routing accuracy.
• Submit paperwork to the Shipping Department.
• Return or pick up trucks for service as required.
Required Skills
Qualifications
• 0-5 years of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and
experience.
• 2 years of commercial driving experience with relevant cargo preferred.
• High School diploma or GED preferred.
• Valid Commercial Driver's License and ability to meet all U.S. Department of
Transportation driver qualification requirements, including sufficient English
proficiency to converse with the public, understand highway signs and signals, respond
to official inquiries, and complete required reports and records.
• Successful completion of road test and MVR check required.
• Ability to meet FMCSA requirements including drug and alcohol testing.
• Knowledge of DOT regulations and safe vehicle operation practices.
• Ability to read, write, and understand delivery documentation and work instructions.
• Basic math and measurement skills required.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
Compensation Range
The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $32.27/Hr. - USD $32.27/Hr. depending on experience, qualifications, and location.
EEO Statement
Reliance, Inc. IS A DRUG-FREE WORK ENVIRONMENT EEO/DISABILITY/VETERAN