The trucking industry is an interesting, challenging and constantly evolving field. The job prospects for this profession are also very good due to the many retirements and the Covid-19 pandemic.

In Quebec, the average annual salary of a truck driver in 2022 is $60,467 and can reach $108,160 in some cases.

Is the job of truck driver for you? Find out more about the requirements needed to become a trucker.

Long working days

The days of a truck driver are rather long. Sometimes we talk about routes stretching over several thousand kilometers. Since the trucker often has to cover these long distances alone, he must be able to stay awake and alert for long periods of time, day and night.

In some cases, trucking pairs are formed to alternate driving. While one drives the truck, the other can rest in the back. Breaks are therefore rather rare in this profession.

Flexible hours

The majority of trucking jobs offer stable, but variable hours. Truckers may be called upon to work days, evenings, nights, weekdays, weekends or even certain public holidays.

To become a truck driver, you have to like flexible hours, but also busy weeks. Indeed, for this job, it is not uncommon for a normal work week to be 60 hours.

Liking variety

The truck driver’s trade allows you to travel and see the country. Often, it offers different routes and itineraries that allow truckers to explore new things and new landscapes all the time.

If you are a person who likes routine, the trucking industry is not for you. The trucker must take care of different tasks in addition to driving his truck sometimes on unknown routes.

Having a perfect driving record

Of course, you must have an impeccable driving record to be a truck driver. When driving, you must demonstrate several key qualities. Truck drivers must be:

Cautious : Caution is always required when a driver is behind the wheel of their truck. They must also be careful before they get underway by making sure their truck is ready to go and that its merchandise is regulated and secure.
Courteous : Truck drivers not only share the road with other truckers but also with the motorists, pedestrians and cyclists they pass along the way. Therefore, they must make sure they are respectful and think about the safety of other road users.
Able to adapt to road conditions : Rain or shine, truck drivers must be able to adapt to all the weather conditions they encounter. He must also plan his itinerary according to the work or road closures that may take place.
Alert : To avoid accidents, collisions or skidding, truck drivers must always be ready to react. They must stay focused, attentive to the road and ready to respond to all contingencies.
Autonomous : As they are often alone in their truck, drivers must be autonomous. In some cases, they must plan their own route and adapt it in the event of a delay, an accident or construction.

Job opportunities

Currently, many truckers are preparing for retirement or are already retired. Career opportunities for newcomers are therefore very interesting due to the many vacancies for this profession.

If you like to travel, if the routine is not for you and if you are ready to take on challenges, the job of truck driver is for you. Contact the Extra Multi-Ressources team to learn more about the job opportunities available to you!