The Job Description of a Truck Driver Owner Operator

by Kent Tukeli

Tractor trailer truck drivers haul large amounts of cargo over long distances, delivering a wide variety of goods. Some drivers invest in their own big rigs with an eye on greater profits. Heavy truck drivers, who own and drive their own truck, take on the responsibilities of an owner operator.


All owner operator truck drivers require a commercial driver's license (CDL), consisting of a written portion and driving test depending on the state. Drivers must also pass random drug tests while on the job in order to maintain a good standing. Committing a felony with a motor vehicle is grounds to revoke a driver's CDL. According to the American Association of Owner Operators, one must own and drive at least one of their own rigs in order to be classified as an owner operator.


Owner operators are responsible for safely driving large cargo trucks over long distances while adhering to all traffic laws. They are also involved with loading and unloading cargo, planning routes, interacting with dispatchers and logging all trucking activities. Drivers monitor wear and tear and maintain their rigs and equipment to ensure optimum functionality. Owner operators must perform business-related duties as well, establishing a solid pipeline of work to maximize profitability. Other business duties include accounting responsibilities, such as submitting tax information and calculating business expenses to determine net income.

Work Environment

Owner operator truck drivers suffer a greater incidence of injury compared to other professions, mainly due to road accidents. The job typically requires long hours on the road driving alone, resulting in a physically and psychologically demanding atmosphere. Driving is a sedentary occupation, leading to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and problems with the musculoskeletal system. Poor diet choices on the road, combined with a lack of exercise, promotes weight gain and obesity.

Pay and Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average pay for all heavy truck drivers is $37,770. Owner operators have the opportunity to earn increased wages because they use their own rigs. After expenses such as fuel, insurance and tolls, owner operators average $49,711 per year. Overall, the heavy trucking industry projects to grow at a rate of 21% between 2010 and 2020, faster than many other occupations, due to increased business and household demand for a variety of goods.

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