While it may not appear to be the most glamorous job, becoming a dump truck driver could be the beginning of a new and profitable career. There is a major shortage of commercial heavy-vehicle drivers of all kinds right now, and whenever companies are short of workers, that means potential for you!
Dump truck operators play an important role on numerous construction sites, transporting materials and ensuring that production runs smoothly. These experts are used in a variety of industries, such as construction. And, and since construction projects take place all over the country, qualified, proficient, and properly trained and licensed dump truck drivers are in high demand.
Individuals considering a career as a dump truck driver should be aware of all aspects of the job. This entails familiarizing themselves with the competency requirements as well as the daily duties that will be expected of them.
The best dump truck schools will teach you how to properly operate a dump truck. You’ll learn about the vehicle itself, as well as how to drive it in a variety of situations with ease and confidence, so you can keep yourself, other drivers, and pedestrians safe on the road.
Those interested in a career driving a dump truck should pursue appropriate training, such as obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License, or CDL.
Contents
- Is a License Required?
- Dump Truck Instruction
- Essentials of a Commercial Driver’s License
- Class B CDL Training
- How Long Does It Take to Learn to Drive a Dump Truck?
- Dump Truck Driver Salary
- Where Can Dump Truck Drivers Get Work?
- Employment by a Business
- Self-Employed
- What is the demand for dump truck drivers?
- Is Dump Truck Driving the Career for You?
Is a License Required?
To drive a straight dump truck, you will need a Class B Commercial Driver’s License. A Class A CDL is required to operate a larger dump truck, such as a tractor-trailer dump truck when towing more than 10,000 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
If you’re looking to get a CDL and you’re at a point in your life where something needs to change, you might feel trapped. Our students feel liberated with a CDL because they are now making more money than they have ever earned before. Job placement aid and financial assistance are available; please contact us for more information!
Dump Truck Instruction
You must obtain a Class B CDL in order to drive a dump truck. Drivers should get training at a local trucking school, especially if they have little truck driving experience.
Essentials of a Commercial Driver’s License
Most schools provide the education and practical skills required for entry-level, supervised over-the-road or in-town driver of tractor-trailers, heavy-duty trucks, dump trucks, and medium-sized delivery trucks for CDL program essentials.
Your CDL license will be issued by your state’s motor vehicle service, just like your regular driver’s license. Again, check your state’s requirements to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.
Class B CDL Training
Some schools specialize in teaching students how to drive “straight trucks,” which include dump trucks, delivery trucks, waste trucks, water trucks, and concrete mixers.
Straight truck programs typically include CDL test preparation and basic skills instruction, as well as instruction in the following skillset:
- Transmission shifting or operation
- Docking and backing up the truck
- Vehicle Communications and Space Management
- Extreme road conditions
- Upkeep of vehicles
- Inspections both before and after the trip
Courses at each school differ in length, ranging from 3 to 7 weeks.
The cost of this type, of course, varies depending on the school and can range between $1,500 and $6,000. Drivers may be required to demonstrate the following in order to qualify for this course:
- Proof of being over the age of 18
- A valid state driver’s license is required.
- a perfect driving record
Furthermore, if you want to drive specialized dump trucks, you may need to take additional training, such as HAZMAT and passenger endorsements on your CDL.
How Long Does It Take to Learn to Drive a Dump Truck?
It can take anywhere from 3-7 weeks to become a dump truck driver for people who go to school. Those who simply choose to obtain their CDL by taking a driving test, on the other hand, may find that the process is much faster once they are approved for their license.
Dump Truck Driver Salary
A dump truck driver’s salary is determined by his or her location of employment, experience, training, and special endorsements obtained for a CDL. However, some averages are as follows:
- $18.16 hourly
- Annual salary of $38,000
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for a dump truck driver in 2019 is $45,260 per year or $21.76 per hour.
In addition, the BLS noted that pay has steadily increased in recent years, so those who choose this as a career can expect to earn more in the future.
Those who want to earn extra profit quickly may want to learn how to move high-risk materials such as coal. Furthermore, gaining the necessary experience to become a supervisor can result in higher pay (albeit with more responsibilities).
Where Can Dump Truck Drivers Get Work?
One of the most appealing aspects of being a dump truck driver is that it is a versatile job with numerous opportunities. These are some examples:
Employment by a Business
Those who just want to get started in this career quickly should look for work through one of the many truck driving companies located throughout the United States. Rural areas tend to have even more opportunities, though this varies depending on the town as well as how much construction work is done on a regular basis. Another benefit of working for a company is that they provide security with pay, opportunities to work overtime, insurance, scheduling flexibility, a truck, and, in some cases, training.
Self-Employed
Self-employment as a dump truck driver may be a good option for those who want to maximize their income and/or have more flexibility. However, it is critical to consider the costs that will be incurred before this career can begin. These are some examples:
- Insurance
- Licensing
- Purchase of a dump truck
- Fees for doing business
- Marketing
What is the demand for dump truck drivers?
In the coming years, annual growth in this industry is expected to be around 4%. With increased construction activity as a result of a boosted economy, there will be greater demand for professionals who can drive dump trucks.
Those who can drive longer distances may be able to make even more money. With such a positive outlook, this can be an excellent career choice that offers a variety of opportunities throughout the year.
Is Dump Truck Driving the Career for You?
If you are comfortable driving larger vehicles and are willing to learn about construction materials while spending a lot of time on the road, this could be an excellent career path for you.
The relatively simple entry process makes it even more appealing, particularly for those who want to get started with a job without first obtaining a degree.
However, before investing time in getting your CDL or attending Truck Driving School, it is recommended that you look specifically in your area to see what opportunities are available. This will help you determine whether you need to relocate or pursue a career change that is more in demand in your area.
Off-road dump truck driver training courses are taught by construction industry professionals with decades of work expertise. They have already trained and certified thousands of students from across the country, ensuring that they receive a high-quality education. In addition, if you require assistance with lodging and financial aid, we can assist you.