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Career Details : Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

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Description

Drive tractor-trailer truck to transport products, livestock, or materials to specified destinations.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed. For example, a drywall installer might benefit from experience installing drywall, but an inexperienced person could still learn to be an installer with little difficulty.

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma and may require some vocational training or job-related course work. In some cases, an associate's or bachelor's degree could be needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees.

Tasks

  • Drives tractor-trailer combination, applying knowledge of commercial driving regulations, to transport and deliver products, livestock, or materials, usually over long distance.
  • Maneuvers truck into loading or unloading position, following signals from loading crew as needed.
  • Inventories and inspects goods to be moved.
  • Wraps goods using pads, packing paper, and containers and secures load to trailer wall using straps.
  • Reads bill of lading to determine assignment.
  • Inspects truck before and after trips and submits report indicating truck condition.
  • Drives truck to weigh station before and after loading, and along route to document weight and conform to state regulations.
  • Maintains driver log according to ICC regulations.
  • Fastens chain or binders to secure load on trailer during transit.
  • Gives directions to helper in packing and moving goods to trailer.
  • Works as member of two-person team driving tractor with sleeper bunk behind cab.
  • Services truck with oil, fuel, and radiator fluid to maintain tractor-trailer.
  • Loads or unloads, or assists in loading and unloading truck.
  • Obtains customer's signature or collects payment for services.

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    Important Abilities

    General Work Activities

    Important Skills

    Frequent Work Context

    • Consequence of Error
    • Degree of Automation
    • Responsible for Others' Health & Safety
    • Provide a Service to Others
    • Frustrating Circumstances
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