CDL-A Trainee Truck Driver – Real Mentorship, Late-Model Equipment – Des Moines, IA

American Driver; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly pay

Orientation pay bonus

Rider & pet policy

Health coverage

401(k)

Paid time off

Job summary

American Driver is hiring entry-level CDL-A drivers in Des Moines, IA for hands-on training with a mentorship program. Trainees will use late-model trucks and receive guaranteed coaching pay during training and guaranteed solo pay for the first 90 days, with potential earnings well above $70k in the first year.

The role features a 3–5 week mentorship, 100% assigned trucks, comprehensive benefits, and safety-focused support from dispatch, safety, and shop teams, with rider and pet policies and a

Qualifications

• Valid Class A CDL
• 21+ years old
• Certificate from an accredited CDL school (120+ hours)
• Clean MVR and PSP
• Must pass DOT physical and pre-employment drug screening

Responsibilities

• Receive hands-on training through a 3–5 week mentorship
• Operate late-model equipment once solo, with 1-on-1 guidance
• Maintain safety and compliance with DOT requirements
• Participate in 24/7 operations support and onboarding processes

Skills

CDL A training

Safety awareness

Education

CDL school certificate

Tools

MVR/PSP review

Job description

Job Openings CDL-A Trainee Truck Driver – Real Mentorship, Late-Model Equipment – Des Moines, IA

About the job CDL-A Trainee Truck Driver – Real Mentorship, Late-Model Equipment – Des Moines, IA

Starting your career in trucking should come with confidence, not uncertainty. We are actively hiring entry-level CDL-A drivers who want proper hands-on training, brand-new equipment, and reliable earnings from day one. We focus on doing things right, giving you the time, support, and tools you need to become a skilled, independent professional.

• Flexible home time: weekly or bi-weekly, depending on your location and route assignment
• Guaranteed weekly pay during your paid coaching phase, training one on one with a certified mentor
• Guaranteed solo pay: $1,000 weekly minimum for your first 90 days solo, no matter what
• Solo earning potential: $1,400 to $1,800 expected weekly gross, $70,000 to $85,000+ first-year potential
• Consistent, year-round freight keeping you moving efficiently
• Weekly direct deposit

Equipment & Training:

• 3 to 5 week mentorship program, hands-on training tailored to your pace so you hit the road fully prepared
• 100% assigned trucks, no slip-seating: your truck is yours alone once you go solo
• Late-model fleet, 2024 and newer Freightliners, Volvos, and Kenworths equipped with modern safety tech, APUs, inverters, and refrigerators
• Real 1-on-1 mentorship: tight-space backing, mountain driving, trip planning, ELD logging, and winter driving from experienced instructors
• 24/7 operations support, direct access to safety, shop tech, and dispatch anytime you're on the road
• $300 orientation pay bonus on your very first paycheck
• Rider and pet policy, bring your loved one or pet on the road right after training
• Health coverage: medical, dental, and vision options
• 401(k) plan options
• Paid time off, scheduled vacation time
• Safety performance and clean DOT inspection bonuses

Requirements:

• Valid Class A CDL, 21+ years old
• Certificate from an accredited CDL school, 120+ hours
• Clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) and PSP
• Must pass DOT physical and pre-employment drug screening

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.