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Tug Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

National DCP

Driver

Lockport, IL

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP, LLC

Driver

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

Driver

Lockport, IL

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

Driver

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

NDCP

Driver

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

New

National DCP

Class A Driver - Foodservice

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Driver Position Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver, delivering products safely and on time ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

NDCP

Class A Driver - Foodservice

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

New

National DCP

Class A Driver - Foodservice

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

Class A Driver - Foodservice

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

Class A Driver - Foodservice

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

National DCP

CDL Class A Delivery Driver

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

NDCP

CDL Class A Delivery Driver

Lockport, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver , delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin ... Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to ...

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All JobsTug Driver JobsTug Driver Jobs in Chicago, IL

Tug Driver information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$15

$19

How much do tug driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for tug driver in Chicago, IL is $15.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tug driver?

Tug drivers, also known as ground support equipment (GSE) operators, are responsible for operating tugs or tractors that move aircraft, baggage carts, cargo, and other equipment around airports. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of aircraft and materials on the ground. Tug drivers must be skilled in maneuvering large vehicles in busy airport environments and adhere to strict safety protocols. Their work helps maintain timely flight schedules and supports overall airport operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tug driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tug Driver, you need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and experience or certification in operating heavy vehicles or airport ground support equipment. Familiarity with airport communications systems, ground handling procedures, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help ensure safe and efficient operations on busy airfields. These skills and qualifications are crucial to prevent accidents, maintain flight schedules, and uphold safety standards in airport environments.

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

Tug drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating busy or congested airport ramps, adhering to tight schedules, and working in varying weather conditions. To manage these challenges, it's important to maintain clear communication with ground crews and follow all safety protocols diligently. Staying alert, keeping up with ongoing training, and being adaptable to sudden operational changes can help tug drivers perform efficiently and safely. Collaboration with dispatchers and other team members is also essential to ensure smooth ground handling operations.

What is the difference between Tug Driver vs Forklift Operator?

AspectTug DriverForklift Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often requiredForklift certification/license required
Work EnvironmentPorts, docks, shipping yardsWarehouses, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, logisticsWarehousing, manufacturing, retail
Job FocusMoving large ships, tugging cargo shipsMoving pallets, containers within facilities

While both roles involve vehicle operation in logistics settings, Tug Drivers primarily operate specialized vehicles to move ships and large cargo in ports, requiring a CDL. Forklift Operators focus on internal material handling within warehouses, needing forklift certification. Both roles are essential in logistics but differ in environment, equipment, and specific skills.

What are the duties of a tug driver?

A tug driver operates tugboats to move ships, barges, or other large vessels within ports, harbors, or docks. Their duties include maneuvering vessels safely, following safety protocols, and maintaining the vessel and equipment. Certification in marine operations and good navigation skills are often required.

What are popular job titles related to Tug Driver jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Tug Driver jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tug Driver jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Tug Driver jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Tug Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tug Driver job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,407 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Driver

National DCP

Lockport, IL

$90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

National DCP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Location: Lockport, IL
Job Type: Full-time 5-day workweek (weekends and holidays. 
Shift: 1am-3am Dispatch with 1-3 layovers a week

We have frequent and recurring needs for Class A Driver in the Lockport, IL area.  We encourage you to apply if you are interested in being among the first to be considered as opportunities arise

Overview:
Join National DCP, LLC (NDCP) as a Driver, delivering products safely and on time to Dunkin’ franchise stores and production kitchens. This role involves working in varied temperature environments and outdoor conditions. NDCP is a $3 billion supply chain company supporting over 10,000 Dunkin’ locations across the U.S.

Why Join Us?

  • Competitive hourly pay: $40.93/hr.
  • Top earners make $90,000 + per year
  • 100% Touch Freight
  • Solo routes, Driver/Driver routes and Driver/Helper routes available.  

Benefits you can count on:

NationalDCP offers a robust benefits suite check out our career page for our full list of benefits

  • Medical, dental & vision insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) / Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Companypaid life, AD&D, short and longterm disability
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, discretionary) & paid holidays and more!
  • Additional benefits: employee assistance programs, discount programs, tuition discount program, and more!

What you’ll do

  • Operates a tractor trailer truck that transports product to and from specified destinations.
  • Conduct a proper pre-trip inspection to ensure the vehicle is safe to operate.
  • Ensures delivery-related paperwork is in order before departing the Distribution Center or transportation hub.
  • Prepares, receives and provides appropriate documentation for the delivery of products.
  • Unloads cargo and delivers via a two-wheeler hand truck and/or pallet jack in a safe manner into store locations.
  • Scans all product labels during store deliveries and reports all orders with shorts or damages.
  • Maintains proper logs of travel and product according to Federal, State and DOT regulations.
  • Maintains contact with NDCP’s Member Services team to communicate any problems or delays with deliveries.
  • Ensures the cleanliness and presentation of the interior of the truck cab, as well as the removal of delivery-related trash at the store and production kitchen (i.e., shrink wrap, cardboard, crates and pallets).
  • Conduct a proper post-trip inspection to ensure equipment is in good working order to minimize delays the following day. Reports any vehicle maintenance or malfunction issues to the distribution center.
  • Serves as the face of NDCP and the main point of contact between the distribution center and the customer.
  • Trains and leverages a Delivery Assistant, as applicable, to ensure the accurate, timely and efficient delivery of product to customer, as well as to assist in the safe maneuvering of the truck entering, exiting and parking at delivery locations

Qualifications you bring:

    1. High School Diploma or equivalent experience preferred
    2. Valid Class A CDL license with a clean driving record.  6-month driving experience minimum, 1 year desired
    1. Possess a current DOT Medical Certification Card and successfully pass DOT pre-employment requirements
    2. Ability to repetitively lift, tug pull 50lbs+ and operate a hand truck and/or hand pallet jack to delivery product to stores over multiple stops per shift
    3. Dependable attendance and a great customer service attitude  
    4. IF APPLICABLE - Ability to operate a 10-speed manual transmission
    5. Ability to operate a lift gate and refrigeration unit

Equal Opportunity Employer: NDCP is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status

What National DCP employees say

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