Introduction
Texas is a hub for the trucking industry, offering numerous opportunities for truck drivers to earn high salaries. With a diverse economy that includes oil, agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics, the state provides some of the highest paying trucking jobs in the country.
If you’re a truck driver in Texas or considering starting your trucking career here, this guide will cover the best-paying trucking jobs, salary expectations, and how to qualify.
Top 8 Highest Paying Trucking Jobs in Texas
1. Oilfield Trucking 🛢️🚛
💰 Average Salary: $80,000 – $130,000+
📝 Why It Pays So Much: Texas is a leading oil producer, and truck drivers transport crude oil, natural gas, and equipment to and from drilling sites. The demand for skilled oilfield truck drivers is consistently high.
🛠️ Requirements:
✔️ CDL-A with Hazmat (H) and Tanker (N) endorsements
✔️ Experience in driving on rough, off-road terrain
✔️ Knowledge of oilfield safety protocols
2. Oversized Load Hauling 📏🚛
💰 Average Salary: $90,000 – $150,000+
📝 Why It Pays So Much: Texas has a booming construction and manufacturing industry, and oversized load haulers move heavy equipment, machinery, and industrial components. These loads require advanced driving skills and permits.
🛠️ Requirements:
✔️ CDL-A with specialized endorsements
✔️ Experience with oversized and overweight loads
✔️ Coordination with escort vehicles for safe transport
3. Hazmat Trucking ☢️🚛
💰 Average Salary: $80,000 – $120,000+
📝 Why It Pays So Much: Texas is a major player in the chemical and petrochemical industries, and drivers with Hazmat endorsements can earn premium pay for transporting hazardous materials safely.
🛠️ Requirements:
✔️ CDL-A with Hazmat (H) and Tanker (N) endorsements
✔️ Clean driving record and background check
✔️ Strong understanding of federal and state safety regulations
4. Owner-Operator Trucking 🏢🚛
💰 Average Salary: $150,000 – $300,000 (after expenses)
📝 Why It Pays So Much: Owner-operators in Texas can choose high-paying loads and set their own schedules. The state’s extensive highway system supports long-haul routes that maximize earnings.
🛠️ Requirements:
✔️ CDL-A and experience as a company driver
✔️ Own or lease a truck
✔️ Business management skills
5. Tanker Truck Driving 🚛💧
💰 Average Salary: $75,000 – $110,000+
📝 Why It Pays So Much: Texas has a strong agriculture and chemical industry, requiring drivers to haul liquids like fertilizers, chemicals, and milk. Tanker driving requires extra caution and skill.
🛠️ Requirements:
✔️ CDL-A with Tanker (N) and Hazmat (H) endorsements
✔️ Experience in handling liquid loads
✔️ Attention to safety and load stability
6. Livestock Hauling 🐄🚛
💰 Average Salary: $70,000 – $100,000+
📝 Why It Pays So Much: Texas is a leader in cattle and livestock production, and experienced livestock haulers are in high demand to transport animals safely and efficiently.
🛠️ Requirements:
✔️ CDL-A with experience in livestock hauling
✔️ Knowledge of animal care and welfare
✔️ Ability to handle stressful situations with livestock
7. Team Driving 👥🚛
💰 Average Salary: $90,000 – $150,000 per driver ($200,000+ combined)
📝 Why It Pays So Much: Team drivers cover long distances quickly by alternating driving shifts, making them ideal for time-sensitive deliveries across Texas and beyond.
🛠️ Requirements:
✔️ CDL-A with long-haul experience
✔️ Good communication and teamwork skills
✔️ Willingness to drive extended hours
8. Private Fleet Trucking (H-E-B, Walmart, etc.) 🛒🚛
💰 Average Salary: $80,000 – $120,000+
📝 Why It Pays So Much: Major companies like H-E-B, Walmart, and PepsiCo operate private fleets that pay well and offer excellent benefits.
🛠️ Requirements:
✔️ CDL-A with a clean driving record
✔️ Customer service skills for interacting with clients
✔️ Reliable work history and experience
How to Secure a High-Paying Trucking Job in Texas
✅ Earn Essential Endorsements: Get your Hazmat (H), Tanker (N), and Doubles/Triples (T) endorsements to qualify for specialized roles.
✅ Gain Experience: Many high-paying trucking jobs require 2+ years of experience. Start with general freight and work your way up.
✅ Network with Industry Contacts: Join trucking forums, job boards, and local trucking associations to connect with employers.
✅ Consider Owner-Operator Opportunities: If you have the means to own a truck, being an owner-operator in Texas can significantly increase your earnings.
✅ Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Employers seek safe, responsible drivers. Avoid traffic violations and accidents.
Best Companies for High-Paying Trucking Jobs in Texas
- Walmart: Known for offering some of the highest wages for private fleet drivers.
- H-E-B: A Texas-based grocery giant with a reputation for competitive pay.
- Schneider National: Offers opportunities in tanker and hazmat trucking.
- Stevens Transport: Specializes in refrigerated trucking with competitive pay.
- Groendyke Transport: A leader in liquid bulk transportation with strong earnings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the highest paying trucking jobs in Texas, focus on specialized roles like oilfield trucking, hazmat transport, or oversized load hauling. These positions often require additional training and experience, but they provide substantial financial rewards.
