Dump truck drivers are responsible for an array of tasks pertaining to worksites and construction. Dump trucks are equipped with open beds allowing for the transportation of various supplies such as construction materials, dirt, gravel, sand, etc., to and from different locations.
Drivers who operate dump trucks are uniquely skilled individuals who need to possess at least a CDL-B, and any endorsements relevant to their particular job. If you don’t already have a CDL-B, you can begin CDL-B training here!
The primary focus of a dump truck driver’s job is transporting the above-mentioned loose materials from one location, hauling the load, and dumping the materials out of the truck’s bed to the desired worksite. Drivers may perform removals or deliveries of these different goods, and will often work on either agricultural sites, or construction zones.
Requirements for Becoming a Dump Truck Driver
Trucks in general are difficult to maneuver, and dump trucks are no exception. It takes a skilled individual to learn the proper operation of a dump truck, and there are a few requirements that go along with it.
These include but are not limited to:
- High School diploma or GED equivalent
- A valid CDL-B (along with any needed endorsements)
- A medical exam
- Clean driving record
- A background check (in some cases)
Responsibilities of a Dump Truck Driver
Dump truck drivers are responsible for transporting and dumping the material they are carrying safely. Drivers unload their materials using the levers and controls in their vehicle. It is also the driver’s responsibility to oversee the security of the load on the truck, as well as to inspect the truck itself before and after departure.
Ensuring you are on time with your deliveries is crucial to the completion of your customers’ projects. So, being able to deliver the materials on time is important. As you are driving, you should always perform in accordance with the DOT safety regulations, as well as any other policies set in place by your company.
Weather conditions can also affect your deliveries. It is important to deliver on time – but not at the expense of your or anyone else’s safety. Delays due to weather conditions are a normal part of the trucking industry, and you should always allow conditions to improve before getting back on the road.
Some other responsibilities dump truck drivers may have are:
- Verify that materials being transported do not exceed weight restrictions
- Grease your truck every 5,000 miles
- During inspections check oil, gas, water levels, as well as signals, tires, and lights
- Perform regular maintenance
- Keep your driver logs up to date
- Ensure you are compliant with all federal regulations
Trucking Industry Benefits
Being a successful dump truck driver not only means you are skilled as a driver, it also demonstrates your experience and proficiency. After a few years of dump truck driving, you may find that employers see you as more marketable than other candidates. You may also be able to work with other construction equipment related to dump trucks, such as earth movers, to diversify your skill set.
Another perk of working as a dump truck driver is that you tend to experience daily home time since worksite hours tend to operate within standard business hours. You will still experience the challenge of operating your vehicle, but with the reward of more reasonable hours.
Other opportunities in the industry are presented to those wanting to be owner-operators. If you are looking to become a dump truck owner-operator you will need to authorize your own LLC, complete any necessary DOT applications, purchase your truck, and gain any necessary registrations.
Is Driving a Dump Truck Right for You?
If you are looking for an exciting and unique trucking job, becoming a dump truck driver may be the opportunity you have been looking for! Not only will you get the chance to improve your skills as a truck driver, but you can earn a living doing something you love.
Explore job opportunities and training near you to begin your career as a dump truck driver or to begin your training!