Hiring 716: Truck drivers wanted and the pay is impressive

There’s a truck driver shortage taking shape across the country. According to American Trucking Associations, 50,000 were needed by the end of last year. Despite being a well-paying job, the trucking industry is struggling to find men and women who want to get behind the wheel of a big rig.

CDL Driver, Ray Klatt sees it firsthand out on the roads but he can’t understand why. “It’s not seen as a desirable occupation anymore,” Klatt said. Klatt's been driving for Relco Systems for 23 years. “I run to Chicago two to three times a week. I know that route so well, it's scary.” For this dad, being a truck driver just works. “I was able to raise my kids I wasn't on the road all the time.” In fact, Klatt said the actual time spent away from home is a misconception, and one of the driving forces behind the driver shortage.

Treg Lewis is Relco's operations lead. He said right now they are in desperate need of drivers. Lewis said he could hire 15 to 20 drivers today.

The pay varies but Lewis said it's competitive. It's likely you'd start out at least at $50,000. “Our drivers tend to make more than the industry average," Lewis explained. “You're getting paid to travel,” said Klatt. “Not many jobs can say that.”

Relco requires a clean driving record and prior commercial driving experience to apply. For more information, call 716-434-8100.