Here’s my thoughts:
Current gig: plant production manager. CDL A with haz and tanker. I drive two days a week, 3 in the office. Sometimes I drive more when going to another facility, all expenses paid by the company’s dime (hotel, food, toiletries / supplies if needed.) 8-10 hr work shifts. 46-50 hr weeks. 62-65k a year depending on volume and OT and variables like that. Will crack 70-75 as more clients pick up but maintain a similar schedule.
I’m seeing ads for 85-110k for OTR but that seems like the freight market is subject to that pay OR you’re local and running hard all 11 or 14 hours depending on the situation. A dry bulk company straight said “we’ll run you your whole 14 every day”.
I enjoy a good work life balance. I’m home in my own bed every night. I’m a hard worker, but I’m a social person and a musician.
Is turning down that money crazy?
Also for local jobs it sounds like fuel haulers do very well but are home every night.
I have a great job but it’s at a small company. I’m not sure when any real big raises my happen. We’re burning through cash on a lot of r&d for our emerging technology. I’m trying to balance more money with my lifestyle too.
Any thoughts or input appreciated. I’ve never worked full on OTR or full time “home daily” driving when they mean max hours every day.
Thanks guys. I’ve gotten a lot of great feedback from this community.
