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Route Driver
Career Insights for Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver (General)
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Based on Illinois data
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What they do
A Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver drives large commercial vehicles such as tractor-trailers, semi-trucks, or big rigs. Responsibilities typically include transporting cargo across long distances, sometimes over the course of multiple days. They may work for trucking companies, freight carriers, logistics, or shipping companies.
$46,870 / year median in Illinois
-20% projected decline
Job Description
Route Driver Darling Ingredients Inc. $37.07 vision insurance, paid time off, 401(k), company vehicle United States, Illinois, Blue Island 3000 Wireton Road (Show on map) Sep 01, 2026
We're one of the world's leading practitioners of circularity, transforming materials from the animal agriculture and food industries into valuable ingredients. Ingredients that nourish people, feed animals and crops, and fuel the world with renewable energy. A Route Driveris responsible forthe operationof a semi-truckor vacuum truckto collect animal mortalities, fat and bone, or grease (vacuum truck)for removal from customer locations. Route Driver responsibilityforwhich raw materialis dependent on the Plant Location. Essential Duties/Responsibilities Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Collects and inspects raw material at time of pick up for any foreign or hazardous material at customer location
Dependent on plant location, may pump or load grease containers; ensure cleanliness of container and surrounding area; returns container with screen and lock secured; notes any damages to container or corral area; properly completes route ticket with customer signature
Required tomaintainan Electronic DOT log
Provides customer with receipt of pick-up and obtains signature of management at location.
Responsible for company vehicle;maintainsvehicle in cleanestpossible manner; operates vehiclein accordance withCompany, federal,stateand local regulations
Conducts all safety checks and inspections of vehicle;operatesvehicle under state, federal, local regulations andin accordance withcompany policy and procedures;observesall company safety rules
Completes vehicle condition reporton a daily basis;operatesunder all Company safety standards
Maintains excellent customer relations by providing quality, professional serviceat all times
Responsible for completing all company required paperworkin accordance withcompany policies (route tickets, driver vehicle inspection reports, accident reports, mileage reports, service forms, etc.)on a daily basis
Responsible for established route as assigned
Attendance at all safety meetingsrequired; may be asked to serve on Safety Committee
Maintain and update vehicle condition reporton a daily basis
Other duties as assigned Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or GED
Must be at least 21 years old with clean Motor Vehicle Record
CDL A license holder with tanker endorsements
Must be registered on https://clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov/ Preferred Qualifications Prior route experience within a customer-oriented environment preferred.
Works well with others in a team environment.
Dependable; reliable; ability to work nights and/or weekends as needed.
Knowledge of safe operation of a commercial motor vehicle and general maintenance
Experience with truck hydraulics is a plus
Strong computer and basic math skills. Working Conditions and Physical Demands Frequently exposed to high noise levels, strong odors, varying temperatures, and biohazardous conditions.
Frequent travel to off-site locations is required.
Requires prolonged sitting and movement throughout office/work locations, as well as occasional use of computers and office equipment.
Must occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and climb or balance.
Must be able to communicate effectively and identify potential workplace hazards.
Requires the ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 100 pounds and occasionally more than 100 pounds. Darling Ingredients offers full time employees a full suite of benefits including but not limited to the following: 401(k), Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, and Paid Time Off. Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law.
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