If you’re looking for a new job, there are lots to consider. What kind of lifestyle do you want? What starting pay are you looking for? What skills do you currently possess? What skills would you like to learn? Would you have to relocate for the new position? All these questions (and more) are important to take into consideration when starting to fill out job applications. If you have some experience driving trucks and also enjoy agriculture, then hopper bottom jobs may be something to look further into.
What is a Hopper Bottom Job?
In its simplest form, a hopper bottom job is one that involves driving a large truck that has a hopper bottom trailer attached. Typically, these hopper bottom trailers are used to transport things like dirt, soil, fertilizer, sand, and grains and corn from place to place. Usually, the trailer is filled from the top and then the cargo can be emptied and delivered through the hoppers located on the bottom of the trailer. Since grain transportation is one of the most common uses for hopper bottom trailers, most hoppers allow for the easy pass-through of multiple types of grain. The emptying can be stopped and started, so multiple deliveries can be made with the same truck and trailer.
What are the Job Duties?
Obviously, the major duty you have is the transportation of the hopper bottom trailer from point A to point B, usually with the help of a semi-tractor. Aside from driving, you may also be responsible for operating the trailer during loading and delivery. You may be given a company truck to pull the trailer, or you may work on a contract basis using your own semi-tractor.
What are the Qualifications?
Having a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is a must. You also will likely be required to show a Class A CDL.