OTR Driver Jobs Overview
OTR driver jobs are also known as over-the-road driving, long-haul driving, long-distance driving, and tractor-trailer driving jobs. You can also be called an owner-operator if you buy or lease a truck (also called an 18-wheeler) and work for yourself. No matter the name, driving a big rig or a semi—even more names for OTR trucks—is one of the most common occupations in the U.S. with opportunities for a wide range of workers. You can be an OTR driver with a high school diploma or equivalent, and the industry employs more military veterans and disabled individuals than most other fields.
OTR drivers haul all kinds of goods and travel routes that often span several states throughout the country. These routes can be assigned by a dispatcher at a trucking company, or you can plan your own routes if you are an owner-operator. You can also drive just one or two routes regularly. Some OTR drivers work as a team with one person driving while the other sleeps behind the truck cab.
You can find OTR driving jobs in the larger category of transportation jobs on Monster. You can also narrow your search to specific types of OTR jobs such as:
OTR Driver Training and Skills
An OTR driver must attend a professional truck driving school to get a minimum of 180 hours of classroom and behind-the-wheel training and then obtain a commercial driver's license. During truck driving school, you'll learn:
- how to maneuver large trucks with various weight loads
- road signs, rules, and regulations
- how to hook and unhook trailers
All commercial truck drivers must have a CDL license. You can get a CDL license by passing an exam and taking a driving test administered by your state of residence. You can also get special endorsements on your CDL by taking additional tests. One example is a hazmat endorsement that allows you to transport hazardous materials.
Take a look at this Monster job description to see what else employers look for when they hire OTR truck drivers.
Update Your OTR Driver Resume
An OTR driver resume is the first step to putting you on the road to a new job. Take a look at the Monster sample to see how to format yours and what information to include. Although it's not usually required for truck driver jobs, a well-written cover letter can let an employer know how enthusiastic you are about working for them. Check out Monster's sample cover letter for truck drivers before you start writing yours.
Interviewing for an OTR Driver Job
You've gotten your certificate from truck driving school and passed your CDL test. Now it's time to interview for that job! If an employer asks "Why should we hire you?" you have a lot you can say about your experience, success in school, and licensure. Practicing your answers can help you ace the interview. Monster has a list of more sample questions you might be asked to help you prepare.
How Much Do OTR Driver Jobs Pay?
According to Monster, the median salary for a OTR truck driver is $64,353 in the U.S. Pay ranges from $41,869 to $87,754. If you search Monster's Salary Tools, for your specific location, we'll also tell you where OTR drivers are in the greatest demand and what related jobs pay.
Check Out the Trucking Companies You Might Want to Work For
You want to drive for a company that fits your needs. One way to find out if a trucking company is right for you is to take a look at Monster's company profiles. You'll find information about trucking companies that may include:
- if it has sign-on bonuses for new drivers.
- what region it covers.
- how many employees work there.
Are You Ready to Take the Wheel for OTR Driver Jobs?
You can get moving right away by looking at the OTR driver jobs on this page. Then, show you have the drive to be a great employee by creating a profile on Monster so you can connect with recruiters and get truck driver job openings sent to your email.