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TransportationGreen JobOccupation aligned to O*NET green economy classifications.Critical OccupationOccupation identified by industry partners as critical to business success.

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

Drive a tractor-trailer combination or a truck with a capacity of at least 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). May be required to unload truck. Requires commercial drivers' license. Includes tow truck drivers.

Annual openings

3,615

Median wage

$61,500

Typical education

High school (GED)

Growth 2026–2032

+5%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

High school (GED)

Credential requirement

A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is generally required for this job.

Work experience

This is an entry-level role so no experience is required.

Getting a CDL is a good starting point with many Transportation and Construction employers seeking CDL drivers.
A CDL can be a great starting point that leads to owning your own truck and running a business or operating heavy equipment (potentially include a CDL Class A endorsement) in the Construction industry.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerNo
  • OutdoorsNo
  • With your handsYes

Interests it draws on

  • Transportation
  • Long Distance Transportation

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Inspect loads to ensure that cargo is secure.
  2. Check vehicles to ensure that mechanical, safety, and emergency equipment is in good working order.
  3. Crank trailer landing gear up or down to safely secure vehicles.
  4. Read bills of lading to determine assignment details.
  5. Collect delivery instructions from appropriate sources, verifying instructions and routes.
  6. Check all load-related documentation for completeness and accuracy.

Also includes

Specializations that share this occupation’s labor-market data.

  • Heavy Truck Driver
  • Truck Owner Operator
  • Special Endorsement Truck Driver
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