What does a truck driver do?

Truck drivers are responsible for safely transporting and delivering various kinds of finished goods and raw materials. These can include machinery, liquids, food, livestock, general freight and hazardous substances. They may drive within their local area, region or interstate, sometimes being on the road for several days at a time. Truck drivers usually work for express couriers, transport companies, freight forwarders or national and international hauliers.

Truck driver skills and qualifications

To excel in their role, a truck driver must have a range of prerequisite skills and qualifications, including:

• proficiency in the use of GPS navigation systems and AVL (automatic vehicle locator) units
• a clean driving record
• ability to maintain concentration while driving for several hours at a time
• strong knowledge of traffic laws, particularly truck driving rules and regulations
• ability to lift heavy items
• strong time management skills
• problem-solving skills to deal with accidents and unforeseen incidents
• a valid truck driver’s licence

Truck driver experience requirements

Some employers may take on truck drivers with limited or no previous experience and provide comprehensive on-the-job training. However, most employers prefer candidates to have at least one to two years of professional driving experience. Employers expect candidates to have knowledge of safe work practices and responsible manual handling experience. Candidates with experience working in a warehousing or logistics environment, for example, as a warehouse worker or forklift operator, are usually highly regarded because they have skills that can be easily transferred to a driver position.

Truck driver education and training requirements

Truck drivers can operate some small trucks with a regular passenger car licence, however, they must obtain a truck licence to operate larger trucks. The relevant state or territory transport authority is responsible for issuing driving licences, and the requirements vary. However, in most cases, a car licence allows drivers to operate trucks weighing up to 4.5 tonnes. These are usually removalist or grocery delivery trucks. For vehicles above 4.5 tonnes, drivers must obtain a special truck driving licence, for example, a light rigid, medium rigid, heavy rigid, heavy combination or multi-combination licence. A clean driving record is also an essential requirement. For certain positions, candidates may be required to undergo a pre-employment medical examination or drug test.

Truck driver salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a truck driver in Australia is $32.35 per hour. This figure may differ depending on variables such as level of experience, location, company or industry.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this job description template doesn’t meet your needs, you might like to look at some job description templates for similar roles:

• Delivery driver
• School bus driver

Truck driver job description FAQs

What are the different types of truck driver?

The two main types of truck driver are company truck drivers and owner-operator truck drivers. Company truck drivers are employed by a trucking company and drive a truck that the company owns. Conversely, owner operators either own their own truck or lease one from a company. They are often self-employed as independent contractors and work for multiple companies. Owner operators may also lease their truck from a trucking company and haul freight for that company.

What qualities make a good truck driver?

One of the most important qualities that a truck driver should have is reliability. Employers must be able to rely on their truck drivers to deliver their products or materials on time and in good condition. A good truck driver is also patient and able to effectively manage the stressors of the job, which can include traffic jams, relationships with coworkers and the pressure to meet delivery schedules. They should be able to work well independently, as the job involves spending long periods of time alone. However, they should also be a good communicator who can provide a high level of customer service.

What makes a good truck driver job description?

A good truck driver job description is written in a clear and concise way and is well structured with subheadings and bullet points. It should include any essential requirements, such as licences or certifications, so that candidates can easily determine whether they will be a good fit for the role. It should also include some information about your company and highlight the benefits of the job. These might include the location, free meals or bonuses.