CDL Jobs in the Oilfield: Opportunities and Career.

The oilfield is often associated with drilling rigs and roughnecks, but behind every successful operation is a strong logistics and transportation workforce. This is where CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) jobs play a critical role.

From hauling water and fuel to transporting heavy equipment, CDL drivers are in constant demand across oil & gas operations often with competitive pay, steady work, and clear career progression.

What are CDL jobs in the Oilfield?

CDL jobs in the oilfield involve operating commercial vehicles to support drilling, completions, production, and well servicing operations. These roles are essential for keeping rigs supplied, equipment moving, and operations running safely and efficiently.

Most oilfield CDL roles require:

• A valid CDL (Class A or B)

• Clean driving record

• Safety training (RigPass, HAZWOPER, H2S, etc.)

• Willingness to work long shifts and remote locations

Common CDL Jobs in the Oilfield

1. Water Truck Driver

Transports water used for drilling, hydraulic fracturing, and dust control. ✔ High demand ✔ Entry-friendly CDL role

2. Vacuum Truck Driver

Handles waste fluids, produced water, and cleanup operations. ✔ Strong pay ✔ Requires safety awareness and PPE compliance

3. Fuel / Hotshot Driver

Delivers diesel, chemicals, and equipment to active job sites. ✔ Fast-paced ✔ Time-critical deliveries

4. Sand Hauler (Frac Sand Driver)

Transports proppant to fracturing sites. ✔ One of the highest-paying CDL oilfield jobs ✔ Long hours, rotational schedules

5. Flatbed & Lowboy Driver

Moves heavy equipment, pipe, and machinery. ✔ Specialized skill set ✔ Great career growth

6. Cement & Bulk Truck Driver

Supports cementing and well completion operations. ✔ Technical role ✔ Often paired with service companies

CDL License Types for Oilfield Jobs

License Type	Typical Oilfield Use
CDL Class A	Tractor-trailers, sand haulers, heavy equipment
CDL Class B	Water trucks, vacuum trucks, cement units
Endorsements	Tanker (N), Hazmat (H), Combination (X)

Having tanker and hazmat endorsements significantly improves job opportunities.

Safety Training Required for Oilfield CDL Jobs

Oilfield drivers are expected to meet strict safety standards. Common required training includes:

• IADC RigPass

• OSHA HAZWOPER

• H2S Awareness

• Defensive Driving

• Stop Work Authority

• LOTO Awareness

• Fire Safety & Emergency Response

These certifications not only improve safety—but also increase employability and pay potential.

Pay & Work Schedules

CDL oilfield jobs are known for competitive wages, often higher than standard trucking roles.

• Entry-level drivers: Competitive hourly or day rates

• Experienced drivers: Higher pay + overtime

• Schedules: Rotational shifts, long hours, remote locations

Many drivers prefer oilfield work due to faster income growth compared to long-haul trucking.

Career Growth for Oilfield CDL Drivers

CDL jobs can be a gateway into other oilfield careers, such as:

• Lead driver or supervisor

• Logistics coordinator

• Safety officer

• Equipment operator

• Field service technician

With additional training and experience, drivers can move into higher-responsibility roles within oil & gas companies.

Is a CDL Job in the Oilfield right for you?

Oilfield CDL roles are ideal if you:

• Prefer hands-on, field-based work

• Are comfortable with long shifts and remote sites

• Value safety-focused environments

• Want strong earning potential without a college degree

Conclusion

CDL jobs are a backbone of oilfield operations, offering steady demand, strong pay, and clear career pathways. Whether you’re starting your oilfield journey or transitioning from traditional trucking, oilfield CDL roles provide a solid and rewarding career option. At LearnToDrill, we offer industry-recognized safety training required by oil & gas employers worldwide including IADC RigPass, HAZWOPER, H2S Awareness, and more.

👉 Get certified. Stay compliant. Get hired faster. Explore our safety courses today at LearnToDrill.