What is a Team Driver Job?
Team driver jobs are positions in the trucking industry where two drivers work together on a single delivery route. This type of job is often preferred by drivers who enjoy working with others and want to share the workload and responsibilities of driving long distances.
What Do Team Drivers Usually Do in This Position?
In a team driver job, both drivers share the driving responsibilities, taking turns behind the wheel while the other rests. This allows for the delivery to be completed in a shorter amount of time, as the truck can continue moving even when one driver is off-duty. The team also works together to ensure that the cargo is properly loaded, secured, and unloaded at its destination.
Top 5 Skills for a Team Driver Position
- Great communication skills to work effectively with a partner
- Ability to navigate and read maps to ensure efficient delivery
- Strong time management skills to meet delivery deadlines
- Good physical stamina to handle long hours of driving
- Excellent problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations on the road
How to Become a Team Driver Specialist
To become a team driver, one must first obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) and complete a training program. Many trucking companies offer team driver positions to experienced drivers who have a clean driving record and a proven track record of safety and reliability. Some companies may also require additional endorsements or certifications, depending on the type of cargo being transported.
Average Salary for Team Drivers
The average salary for team drivers varies depending on the company, type of cargo being transported, and location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $45,260 in May 2020.
Roles and Types of Team Driver Jobs
There are several types of team driver jobs, including long-haul, regional, and local routes. Long-haul team drivers typically cover the most distance and spend the most time on the road, while regional and local team drivers may work shorter routes and spend more time at home. Some team driver jobs may also specialize in transporting specific types of cargo, such as hazardous materials or refrigerated goods.
Locations with the Most Popular Team Driver Jobs in the USA
The demand for team driver jobs varies by location and industry. Some of the most popular regions for team driver jobs in the USA include the Midwest, South, and West Coast. Cities with major transportation hubs, such as Chicago, Atlanta, and Los Angeles, also tend to have a high demand for team drivers.
What are the Typical Tools Used in Team Driver Jobs?
Team drivers often use a variety of tools and equipment to help them perform their job duties, including GPS systems, electronic logging devices, and communication devices such as two-way radios or cell phones. They may also use specialized equipment for loading and unloading cargo, such as forklifts or pallet jacks.
In Conclusion
Team driver jobs offer a unique opportunity for drivers to work together and share the responsibilities of a long-haul delivery route. To be successful in this position, individuals should have strong communication and time-management skills, as well as the ability to handle unexpected situations on the road. With the right training and experience, team drivers can enjoy a rewarding career in the trucking industry.