As a truck driver you could find yourself involved with city pick-up and delivery, large truck and tractor-trailers as well as dump trucks or tow trucks. Some firms maintain their own fleet strictly for internal use while other companies haul goods for others. If you own a truck you could broker your services to either type of business. In addition to driving your other duties could include planning and scheduling deliveries, completing log books and documents required for border crossings, and learning how to use new technologies that affect the industry. Knowledge of safety regulations, dangerous goods regulations, first aid, and defensive driving may also be required. Technological advances in computers and satellite tracking may mean thast effective communication skills will be as important as driving skills.

WHAT YOU NEED:

To be a truck driver you need a Grade 10 education, to be at least 18 years of age and have a good driving record. Necessary driving experience varies from one year of basic driving for light-truck operators to three to five years driving for heavy truck operators. Licensing requirements may vary with the state or province and the size of the truck.

SALARY:
$32,000 to $38,000