Congratulations! You’ve received your commercial licence, but now what? The road to finding a job as a commercial truck driver is ahead of you and here’s how you can make good traction with the job hunt. The first step is figuring out what type of commercial truck driver job you’d like, then applying for the position, and getting through the interview process.
Follow through our hiring tips and you’ll be on the road with your new licence in no time!
What type of driving job should you get?
Some truck drivers have local delivery routes, while others may drive long distances, and each type of driving job has their own perks and qualifications. Truck drivers work for a variety of businesses including trucking and transportation companies, manufacturing companies, mining or forestry companies and shipping companies.
Local pick-up and delivery drivers are responsible for picking up and delivering small shipments, typically within a set local area. You will likely drive a small vehicle, such as a sprinter van or cube van. Many local drivers are home every night and work regular day shifts.
As a short-haul driver, you’ll make a series of deliveries and pick-ups that are usually within a half a day’s drive or so. In some instances, short-haul drivers may be responsible for loading and unloading their trucks.
Long-haul drivers cover long distances such as international routes across North America. You may also be involved in loading and unloading trucks, and other duties including customer relations and business development. Knowing what you’re getting into before you even get through the application process is a great idea, and getting prepared with a long-haul run checklist full of items you might need beforehand doesn’t hurt either!
How should you apply for a truck driver position?
Your resume should highlight the necessary skills and experience for the job you’re applying for. Most importantly, your resume should mention that you have the required licenses and training for the position. Study the job description and search for keywords, including qualifications and skills. Ensure you prioritize your qualifications and skills that match the job description when writing your resume.
Truck drivers have a set of skills that are unique to the job, and employers want to see that potential candidates have these skills. List skills like chaining up, coupling and uncoupling, pre-trip inspections, and securing loads on your resume.
When applying for commercial truck driving jobs, it is valuable to mention any relevant specialty training as well as the more common skills listed above. This can include courses like mountain/ highway training, B-train training, and chain-up courses. Additional training is an asset when applying for commercial truck driving jobs and sets you apart from other candidates. Having extra training experience also opens up more job opportunities.
If you look at commercial truck driving job postings, you’ll notice most of them have something in common — employers are looking for candidates who are safety-conscious. Many employers are also looking for people with previous heavy equipment operation, industrial experience, and a clean driving record. Some employers may require you to pass a criminal record check and drug test before completing the hiring process.
How should you prepare for a truck driving interview?
You’ve applied for jobs and got an interview! Now, the real preparation happens. Your initial interview will cover questions about your professional driving experience, skills, history and habits.
This is a great time for you to learn more about the company. Show your interest in the job by asking questions about the position, the routes you might cover, scheduling and opportunities for advancement. This will show the interviewer that you are committed to the job long-term and are accountable and reliable.
If you are chosen to move forward in the hiring process, you may be asked to do a screening. This may require a criminal record check, medical history check, drivers abstract, or drug and alcohol testing. These screenings help employers to verify who you are, your health and fitness level, and to obtain your driving history.
After the screening stage, you will most likely be required to do a driving evaluation or skills test. In addition to driving, this evaluation may include basic yard skills like backing up, parking, docking, and hooking & unhooking a trailer. This is a great opportunity to show off your knowledge and skills, and how you’ll contribute as a safe and valuable driver . Be prepared by bringing a high visibility vest and wearing proper footwear, and remember to do a pre-trip inspection!
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Now you know all you need to know about looking for commercial truck driving jobs. If you’re a recent Valley Driving School graduate, we offer an exclusive online job board . We keep a full and up-to-date list of employers who are actively seeking out students who have completed our training programs !