Three Types Of CDL Jobs Available In The Bakken

Posted on: 7 April 2015

The decrease in the price of oil has affected many companies and laborers in the Bakken oilfields of western North Dakota. While many people flocked to the Bakken to get a high-paying job in the oilfield, some are now losing that job. The good news is if you have your commercial driver's license, there are many companies not related to the oil industry who are looking for drivers. Here are three types of jobs you can get in the Bakken if you have your CDL.

School Bus Driver - In North Dakota, besides having your CDL, there are a few more requirements for school bus drivers. All school bus drivers must be at least 18 years old, must pass a physical and have a medical card. They must also have a passenger endorsement which is obtained by passing a written test.

Some companies hiring school bus drivers also look for the following:

  • No criminal convictions
  • Clean driving record
  • Pass a driving test for the specific kind of bus you want to drive

There are many advantages to driving a school bus, especially if you like working with kids. School bus drivers have a flexible schedule and can earn extra money by driving students to and from field trips and other activities.

Farm and Ranch Truck Driver

Besides the oil industry, another leading industry in North Dakota is agriculture. Farmers and ranchers in this state are always needing drivers who can haul livestock, grain or small equipment from one location to another. Some of the qualifications might include:

  • The ability to perform light maintenance on trucks and other equipment
  • Pass a drug screening
  • Have at least a high school degree

Because they sometimes don't have their own vehicle to supply, some farmers or ranchers prefer to hire owner/operators who have their own trucks. A few advantages to being a farm and ranch truck driver include working outdoors and traveling to different places.

Heavy Equipment Operator

These types of drivers operate heavy equipment such as backhoes, bulldozers and excavators that allow them to transport products or materials in either loose or packaged form. Besides having a CDL, other requirements include:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of applicable DOT regulations
  • Clean driving record
  • Pass a DOT physical examination

They might also be responsible for maintaining a log book and other written reports. Some of the advantages to being a heavy equipment operator include demonstrating problem solving skills and getting to use heavy large equipment.

If you are looking for temporary CDL job in the Bakken, you may want to consider checking with http://www.montustaffing.com/ or another local temporary employment agency.

Share