What is a Tanker Driver Job?
A tanker driver job is a position in the transportation industry that involves driving tank trucks to transport liquid or gas materials. These materials can range from fuel and oil to chemicals and hazardous substances. Tanker drivers are responsible for ensuring the safe and timely delivery of these materials to various locations.
What usually do in this position?
Tanker drivers are responsible for a variety of tasks, including:
- Conducting pre-trip inspections of their vehicles to ensure that they are in good working condition
- Loading and unloading materials from their tank trucks
- Transporting materials to various locations while adhering to safety regulations and traffic laws
- Keeping accurate records of their routes, deliveries, and maintenance activities
- Communicating with dispatchers, customers, and other drivers on the road
Top 5 Skills for This Position
To succeed in a tanker driver job, you will need a combination of technical and interpersonal skills. Here are the top 5 skills required for this position:
- Excellent driving skills
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication skills
- Familiarity with safety regulations
- Ability to work independently
How to Become a Tanker Driver
To become a tanker driver, you will need a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a tanker endorsement. This requires passing a written exam and a skills test, as well as meeting other requirements such as having a clean driving record and passing a physical exam.
In addition to obtaining the necessary licenses and certifications, it can be helpful to gain experience in the transportation industry through entry-level positions such as delivery driver or courier.
Average Salary
The average salary for a tanker driver in the United States is around $55,000 per year, although this can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the type of materials being transported.
Roles and Types
There are a variety of roles and types of tanker driver jobs, including:
- Fuel delivery drivers: These drivers transport gasoline, diesel fuel, and other petroleum products to gas stations and other locations.
- Chemical tanker drivers: These drivers transport chemicals and other hazardous materials that require special handling and safety precautions.
- Milk tanker drivers: These drivers transport milk and other dairy products from farms to processing facilities.
- Water tanker drivers: These drivers transport water to locations such as construction sites, swimming pools, and agricultural areas.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
The states with the most tanker driver jobs in the United States include Texas, California, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois.
What are the Typical Tools
Tanker drivers typically use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their jobs, including:
- Tank trucks
- Pumps and hoses
- Safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, and respirators
- GPS systems and other navigation tools
- Logbooks and other record-keeping materials
In Conclusion
Tanker driver jobs can be a rewarding career choice for those who enjoy driving and are committed to safety and professionalism. By obtaining the necessary licenses and certifications, gaining experience in the transportation industry, and developing the key skills required for this position, you can be successful in this challenging and rewarding career.