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Van Owner Operator Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Clean Harbors is looking for a OTR Class A Dry Van Owner Operator to join their safety conscious team in Cranston, RI. This route runs from Cranston, RI > El Dorado, AR and averages 2800-3000 miles ...

Clean Harbors is looking for a OTR Class A Dry Van Owner Operator to join their safety conscious team in Cranston, RI. This route runs from Cranston, RI > El Dorado, AR and averages 2800-3000 miles ...

Clean Harbors is looking for a OTR Class A Dry Van Owner Operator to join their safety conscious team in Braintree, MA! This route runs from Braintree, MA to El Dorado, AR and averages 2800-3000 ...

Clean Harbors is looking for a OTR Class A Dry Van Owner Operator to join their safety conscious team in Braintree, MA! This route runs from Braintree, MA to El Dorado, AR and averages 2800-3000 ...

Clean Harbors is looking for a OTR Class A Dry Van Owner Operator to join their safety conscious team in Braintree, MA! This route runs from Braintree, MA to El Dorado, AR and averages 2800-3000 ...

Clean Harbors is looking for a OTR Class A Dry Van Owner Operator to join their safety conscious team in Braintree, MA! This route runs from Braintree, MA to El Dorado, AR and averages 2800-3000 ...

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Van Owner Operator information

See Rhode Island salary details

$39.2K

$55K

$79.8K

How much do van owner operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for van owner operator in Rhode Island is $54,994.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,100.00 and $62,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by van owner operators and how can they be managed?

Van Owner Operators often encounter challenges such as managing fluctuating fuel costs, finding consistent loads, and maintaining their vehicles. Additionally, handling paperwork, meeting delivery deadlines, and complying with transportation regulations can be demanding. Successful operators typically address these challenges by building relationships with reputable freight brokers, investing in preventive vehicle maintenance, and using digital load boards to secure steady work. Staying organized and proactive with route planning helps minimize downtime and maximize profitability.

What is a van owner operator?

Van owner operators are independent contractors who own and operate their own cargo or delivery vans to transport goods for clients or companies. They are responsible for maintaining their vehicles, securing proper insurance, and managing their own business operations. Van owner operators often work with courier services, delivery companies, or as independent logistics providers. This role offers flexibility and the opportunity for higher earnings, but also requires handling business expenses and customer relations.

What does a van owner operator do?

A van owner-operator can work in a variety of industries, so job duties vary. If you work in the delivery industry, your responsibilities include moving or delivering goods and loading and unloading your van. You can also work in the transportation or moving fields. Many companies, such as Amazon and private delivery services, employ van owner-operators on a contractual basis. If you are transporting people, you may work on contract for a tour company, airport shuttle service, or similar service. You can also run your own business in any of these industries. Since you are the owner, all of these jobs involve some bookkeeping responsibilities, even if you work as an independent contractor. All of these jobs require some travel, though it may be regional.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a van owner operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Van Owner Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), safe driving record, and basic knowledge of vehicle maintenance and logistics. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, electronic logging devices (ELDs), and dispatch software is typically required. Strong time management, customer service, and self-motivation are vital soft skills for managing schedules and client interactions. These skills are crucial for ensuring timely deliveries, regulatory compliance, and building a reliable, independent business.

How much do van owner operators make?

Van owner operators typically earn between $100,000 and $200,000 annually, depending on factors such as experience, routes, and load types. They are responsible for managing their own schedules, maintenance, and expenses, which can impact net income.

What is the difference between Van Owner Operator vs Van Driver?

AspectVan Owner OperatorVan Driver
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often preferred, vehicle registration, insuranceValid driver's license, possibly a CDL depending on cargo
Work EnvironmentOwns or leases a van, manages own schedule, independentWorks for a company, follows company routes and schedules
Employer & IndustryIndependent contractor or small business owner in logistics or deliveryEmployee of a delivery or courier company

Van Owner Operators typically own their vehicles, manage their schedules, and operate independently within the logistics industry. Van Drivers usually work for a company, following set routes and schedules. Both roles require a valid driver's license, but Owner Operators often need additional credentials and insurance. The choice depends on whether you prefer independence or employment with a company.

What are popular job titles related to Van Owner Operator jobs in Rhode Island? For Van Owner Operator jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Van Owner Operator jobs in RI? For Van Owner Operator jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Van Owner Operator job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,994 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Owner Operator OTR Class A Driver

Clean Harbors

Cranston, RI • On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Clean Harbors rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 89 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Clean Harbors is looking for an OTR Class A Dry Van Owner Operator to join their safety-conscious team in Cranston, RI. This route runs from Cranston, RI, to El Dorado, AR., and averages 3000 miles per week. Minimum 10-14 days out.
About the role:
  • Average $200-250K per year.
  • Bi-Weekly home time.
  • Compensation package includes on-duty time paid via hourly demurrage rates, non-asset hourly rates, and/or mileage pay.

Qualifications:
  • Class A CDL.
  • HAZMAT and TANKER endorsements.
  • 12+ months of Class A driving experience.
  • Ability to effectively use required technology such as mobile applications and computer software.

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against applicants due to race, ancestry, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or on the basis of any other federal, state/provincial or local protected class.
Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.
*CH

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About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US