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Union Driver Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

The NEB Driver plays a critical role in ensuring the safe, timely, and efficient transportation of ... We are located in Warwick, RI and our employees are members of the Teamsters Local 251 union.

... Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in ... Position Subject to Collective Bargaining Agreement: * $26.67 - $30.10 (Union Collective Bargaining ...

URI CDL Shuttle Bus Drivers

Exeter, RI · On-site

$26.67 - $30.10/hr

... Driver We are currently on the lookout for an experienced Bus Driver to join our elite team in ... Position Subject to Collective Bargaining Agreement: * $26.67 - $30.10 (Union Collective Bargaining ...

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Union Driver information

See Rhode Island salary details

$9

$18

$30

How much do union driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for union driver in Rhode Island is $18.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $19.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Union Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a clean driving record, and knowledge of safety regulations and route navigation. Familiarity with fleet management systems, GPS devices, and sometimes specialized vehicles or equipment is typically required. Reliability, strong communication, and a commitment to teamwork help Union Drivers excel in coordinating with dispatchers and maintaining schedules. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient transport services and compliance with union standards and employer expectations.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by Union Drivers compared to non-union drivers?

Union Drivers often benefit from collective bargaining agreements, which can provide better wages, job security, and benefits. However, they may also encounter unique challenges such as adhering to strict union rules, participating in strikes or work stoppages, and navigating complex seniority systems for shift assignments or route selection. Additionally, Union Drivers often need to stay informed about union policies and actively participate in meetings or votes, which can add extra responsibilities outside of their driving duties.

What are Union Drivers?

Union Drivers are professional drivers who are members of a labor union that represents their interests in the workplace. These drivers may operate trucks, buses, or other vehicles, depending on their specific industry. Being part of a union often means they have negotiated wages, benefits, and working conditions, and have access to collective bargaining and support from the union in case of disputes. Union Drivers typically adhere to safety regulations and uphold standards set by both their employer and the union.

What is the difference between Union Driver vs Non-Union Driver?

AspectUnion DriverNon-Union Driver
CredentialsTypically requires union membership, certifications, and seniorityMay require similar licenses but no union-specific credentials
Work EnvironmentUnionized workplaces with negotiated benefits and work rulesNon-union settings, potentially less structured benefits
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in transportation, logistics, and public transit sectorsUsed across similar industries but less regulated by union agreements
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for benefits, job security, and wagesCompared for flexibility and independent work options

Union Drivers typically work in unionized environments with negotiated benefits, wages, and job protections, whereas Non-Union Drivers may have more flexibility but fewer benefits. The choice depends on preferences for job security versus independence within the transportation industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Driver jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Driver jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Driver jobs in Rhode Island? For Union Driver jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Driver jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Union Driver jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Union Driver jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Union Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Driver job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,188 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
CDL-A Local Driver / Forklift Operator, Full-time

CDL-A Local Driver / Forklift Operator, Full-time

ABF Freight

Providence, RI • On-site

$29.27 - $32.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


ABF Freight rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description


Pickup and delivery of cargo to and from various destinations usually within proximity of the consolidation/distribution center. The loading and unloading of trailers utilizing the same techniques, technology and procedures as a dock worker. Actual duties and schedule may vary depending on terminal location.
Responsibilities
  • Exercise independent judgment regarding the building and tearing down of the trailer to utilize time, resources, energy, and physical demands effectively and efficiently, while complying with all weight distribution laws.
  • Other duties, as assigned.
  • Load and unload cargo.
  • Operate a forklift as needed.
  • Perform various tasks ranging from check-in, tractor/trailer inspection, tractor set up, and the pickup and delivery of cargo.
  • Complete routine paperwork effectively, and properly log loading sheets.

Requirements
Education:
  • High School Diploma / GED
Experience:
  • 1 year of verifiable tractor/trailer experience (Candidates with less than 1 year experience may be eligible for training).
Certifications:
  • Class-A CDL with doubles/triples, tanker and hazardous materials endorsements.
Additional Requirements:
  • Minimum 21 years of age.
  • Good stable work record.
  • Safe driving record (from MVR and previous employment).
  • Be able to pass DOT pre-employment drug screen and meet DOT medical requirements.
  • Shift days and hours required for this position vary by location and may include days, nights, and/or weekends. Being able to work the required hours at this location will be considered a minimum requirement.

Benefits
  • Make more money! Wages are Teamster Union Scale which are greater than most other carriers! Hourly employees also receive overtime pay after 8 hours/day.
  • All Union Employees receive health and welfare benefits with no employee paid premiums.
  • Each employee receives 7 days of sick leave each January 1st. With the amount of personal days, sick leave, and paid holidays, an employee may qualify for up to 3 weeks of paid days off without using vacation.
  • Life insurance is provided through the multi-employer sponsored health and welfare fund.
  • Employees are given the opportunity to contribute to the Teamsters National 401(k).
  • ABF Freight employees are covered by a pension plan at no expense to the employee.
  • ABF Union employees participate in a profit sharing program.

Other Details
Work Hours:
  • Schedule may vary depending on Service Center location.
Travel Requirements:
  • Minimal (0%-25%)
Compensation:
  • This is a hourly position paid weekly.

In accordance with the Massachusetts Wage Transparency Act, the starting pay rate for this position is $29.27, increasing to $32.52 per hour after one year, with overtime paid after 8 hours for full-time employees. Company-funded benefits are offered to full-time employees after a waiting period determined by local union.
About Us
ABF Freight®, an ArcBest® company, is one of the nation's largest, most trusted less-than-truckload carriers. With over a century of experience, 240 service centers spanning North America, and an unwavering commitment to quality, safety and customer service, ABF offers best-in-class LTL transportation for companies of all sizes and industries. We're driven for excellence.

What ABF Freight employees say

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Benefits

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ABF Freight logo

About ABF Freight

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ABF Freight, an ArcBest company, is an exceptional company where driven people have rewarding careers. Our pace of expansion means we're looking for people with The Skill & The Will to serve customers who depend on us for customized transportation and logistics solutions.

Industry

Trucking

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Smith, AR, US

Year founded

1923