Truck Driver

733111 · Heavy

Career data Verified

Heavy truck drivers drive large trucks or truck and trailer units to transport goods and materials.

Most common salary $69k – $102k

Upper salary up to $116k

Training 0-1 year

Drives a heavy truck, requiring a specially endorsed class of licence, to transport bulky goods.

Manoeuvres vehicles into position for loading and unloading; loads and unloads vehicles using lifting and tipping devices; observes safety requirements when loading and unloading vehicles; makes regular quality checks of vehicles to ensure they can be driven safely; estimates weights to comply with load limitations and ensure safe distribution of weight; ensures goods are stowed and securely covered to prevent loss and damage; verifies loading documents, checks condition of goods and obtain certification of deliveries.

Works inside and outside vehicles constantly, driving and loading and unloading.
Works in all weather conditions.
Can be dusty, cold or hot, but many truck cabs are heated, air-conditioned and protected from the elements.
Often required to works shifts.
Jolting and jarring of driver could be frequent if driving over rough or sloping terrain.

Typically a light to medium physical demand job. However, occasionally the role involves a heavy physical demand (depending on the requirement for strapping down and loading).
Sits in vehicle cab constantly. Climbs up steps to enter and exit vehicle cab.
Uses upper limbs, feet and legs to stretch down and across and push or pull to operate controls and to place and retrieve items from load compartments if
May squat, crouch, bend or kneel occasionally to check vehicle and load.
Occasionally twists body or neck if reversing vehicle and for some loading and unloading activities.
Significant contact with water or skin irritants is not typically required.
Lifting and carrying is a frequent to limited requirement depending upon the type of truck operated and the loading and unloading mechanisms available for use.
Frequent repetitive hand, arm, leg and foot movements are required for the operation of truck controls.
Driving is constantly required.
Hand tools or equipment used will include pens to complete pick-up and delivery documentation requirements and also general tools for minor repairs and maintenance.
Mental skills necessary include practical, organisational and record-keeping skills.

Entry signal Reviewed

Enter via a short course or licence (days to weeks). A licence or registration is legally required.

Entry barrier Short course or licence

Licence / registration Licence/registration required

ANZSCO skill level 4

Next-day ready No

How this was determined (model-generated): Truck driver needs core Class 2-5 heavy licence. Proposal correct.

A current Class 2-5 Driver’s Licence depending on weight and type of vehicle to be driven (ANZSCO Skill Level 4). Some employers will also prefer or require a Dangerous Goods (D) Driver’s Licence Endorsement.