Companies across the country are always looking for ways to recruit more drivers. At Dot, we found that for some people who have never been a truck driver before, entering the industry can be intimidating.
So, we created the Warehouse to Driver Program—a gradual transition program that allows employees to get used to Dot and the way we function in the warehouse before attending driving school and then, ultimately, transitioning into a Dot driver role with Dot Transportation, Inc. (DTI).
How does the Warehouse to Driver Program work?
You will start working in one of our 12 warehouses across the country. For six to 12 months, you will learn the in’s and out’s of Dot’s warehouses, business model, and values. After those six to 12 months are up, you will start attending a Dot-approved driving school to get your Class A Commercial Drivers License (CDL).
While you are in driving school, you will continue to work reduced hours in the warehouse. Once you have obtained your CDL, you will transition into becoming a full-time Dot driver.
What if I am not 21 years old yet?
That’s okay! You can still go through our Warehouse to Driver Program, similar to the way anyone else would. The difference is that after you get your CDL and complete DTI training, you will drive within your state until you are 21. At that point, you will be legally allowed to drive a commercial vehicle across state lines.*
*The program may have slight variances depending on the location. Please reach out to the distribution center nearest you for more information.
What about paying for truck driving school?
DTI will pay for truck driving school upfront so you can obtain your CDL. This helps you focus on your education so you can hit the road as soon as possible and not be strapped financially.
How much can I expect to be paid in these positions?
Warehouse material handler salary
Warehouse pay sometimes varies depending on the location. That being said, if you visit our warehouse job postings, you will be able to see what the starting pay range is for each position at each location.
Truck driver salary
During your first year as a full-time truck driver, you will make from $48,000 to $62,000 depending on your position and schedule type. There is plenty of room to grow, as Dot’s traditional customer delivery specialist (CDS) drivers averaged almost $90,000 in 2018.
Don’t want to touch freight? No problem. The majority of our driver schedule types offer a no-touch option.
What happens after CDL training?
Once you have completed your CDL training and are officially ready to hit the road, you will go through Dot’s six to 12 weeks of orientation and training. As a Warehouse to Driver Program candidate, you will earn $750 per week. Most meals are provided during orientation and training.
What are the requirements for the Warehouse to Driver Program?
- Excellent work record
- Dot supervisor recommendation
- Six months of full-time Dot warehouse service
- Excellent driving record
- No felonies
- Less than Step 2 of discipline when working in a Dot distribution center (DC)
- DTI Director of Transportation approval
- DC-specific truck driver training
How do I apply?
1. Visit DotFoodsCareers.com/warehouse
2. In the “Search Jobs” are on the home page, filter the location to match the one nearest you.
3. After filtering to your location, click “Search.”
4. Click on the “Warehouse Material Handler” position.
5. Apply for the position by clicking on “Apply for this job online.”
That’s it! You’re on your way to an exciting career with Dot.
You can also take a look at other reasons why working at Dot is an excellent fit for your lifestyle and interests.
