Heavy Truck Driver Career Guide: Great Falls, Montana

Writing from the perspective of a local career analyst who's watched the trucking industry in Great Falls evolve over the past two decades, this guide cuts through the noise. We'll look at what it really takes to live and work as a heavy truck driver in this Montana hub. The data doesn't lie, and the local context matters just as much as the paycheck. Let's get to work.

The Salary Picture: Where Great Falls Stands

The numbers tell a clear story. As a heavy truck driver in Great Falls, your earnings are solidly in the middle of the pack for the state and slightly below the national average. The median salary is $51,911/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.96/hour. For context, the national average sits at $53,090/year, so you're about 2% below the national figure—a common trend for many professions in Montana's cost-of-living environment.

Great Falls is part of a metro area with 241 jobs for heavy truck drivers currently listed, indicating a stable but not explosive market. The 10-year job growth is projected at 4%, which aligns with national trends but suggests you'll need to be proactive about skills and networking to advance.

Where does this place us in Montana? Great Falls is often overshadowed by Billings and Bozeman in terms of headline salaries, but the cost of living here is a significant equalizer. You'll earn less than a driver in Billings but your rent will be substantially lower, which we'll break down later.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn at different career stages in the Great Falls area. These figures are based on local job postings, industry reports, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for the region.

Experience Level	Typical Years	Annual Salary Range (Great Falls)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$42,000 - $48,000	Local/Regional routes, yard spotting, basic equipment checks. Often paid hourly.
Mid-Career	3-7 years	$48,000 - $58,000	Over-the-road (OTR) routes, specialized freight (e.g., agriculture, fuel), mentoring new drivers.
Senior Driver	8-15 years	$58,000 - $66,000+	Dedicated accounts, trainer roles, hazardous materials (HAZMAT) endorsements, complex logistics.
Expert/Specialist	15+ years	$66,000 - $75,000+	Owner-operator (with own truck), fleet manager, safety/compliance specialist, specialized heavy haul.

Insider Tip: The jump from Mid-Career to Senior often hinges on endorsements. Getting your HAZMAT, Tanker (X), or Doubles/Triples (T) endorsement can immediately increase your earning potential by $3-$5/hour with many local carriers like J.B. Hunt or Schneider.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your budget. With a median salary of $51,911, your take-home pay after federal and Montana state taxes will be approximately $41,000-$42,000 per year (or about $3,400-$3,500/month). This assumes you're single with no dependents and take the standard deduction.

The single biggest factor in your budget is housing. Great Falls has a remarkably affordable rental market. The average 1BR rent is $745/month, and the Cost of Living Index is 92.6 (US avg = 100), meaning you get more for your money here than in most cities.

Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for a median-earning heavy truck driver in Great Falls:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes & Local Context
Rent (1BR)	$745	You can find apartments in this range in neighborhoods like Black Eagle or the South Side.
Utilities (Inc. Internet)	$180	Winter heating costs can spike, especially in older buildings.
Car Payment & Insurance	$450	Essential for commuting to yards or running errands. Truckers often have a reliable personal vehicle.
Fuel (Personal Vehicle)	$150	Great Falls is spread out; expect regular trips to the 10th Ave S corridor or industrial parks.
Groceries & Household	$400	Average for one person. The Great Falls Farmers' Market can help with fresh, affordable produce in season.
Health Insurance	$250	Costs vary widely. Many drivers are covered through employer plans, but individual premiums can be high.
Phone & Miscellaneous	$200	Data plans for logistics apps and ELDs are a necessity.
Savings/Debt	$500	Building an emergency fund is critical in this industry.
TOTAL	$2,875	Leaves a buffer of ~$525/month from a $3,400 take-home pay.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Great Falls is around $240,000. With a $2,400/month take-home pay and minimal debt, a driver with a solid credit score can comfortably afford a mortgage. The 2024 USDA Rural Development loan program offers fantastic options here, with 0% down payment for eligible areas (which Great Falls County qualifies for). This is a game-changer for drivers looking to build equity.

Where the Jobs Are: Great Falls's Major Employers

The job market here is diverse, but it's not dominated by one or two giants like in some logistics hubs. You'll find opportunities with regional carriers, local businesses, and agricultural outfits. Here are the key players:

1. A & L Trucking: A local staple based in Black Eagle, specializing in agricultural commodities and regional flatbed work. They're a go-to for drivers who want to stay close to home, with predictable routes to farms and elevators across North Central Montana. Hiring Trend: Steady, often looking for drivers with HAZMAT for fuel deliveries.

2. Mountain West Oil (Petro Transport): This is a major hauler for the region's oil and gas industry. Based in the 10th Avenue South industrial area, they require HAZMAT and Tanker endorsements. Routes often go to the Bakken, but many are intra-state. Hiring Trend: High demand for drivers with clean records and experience with petroleum transport.

3. Great Falls Transit (Valley Metro): While not a "heavy truck" job, they operate paratransit and fixed-route buses. It's a stable, local driving option with benefits and a pension, appealing to drivers seeking a better work-life balance. Hiring Trend: Consistent, with a need for CDL-B drivers.

4. J.B. Hunt Transport: J.B. Hunt has a significant presence in Great Falls, primarily for their Dedicated Services line. They serve major clients like Walmart and local manufacturers. This is a large corporate option with structured pay, benefits, and potential for regional or OTR work. Hiring Trend: Active, often recruiting for their "Dedicated" accounts, which offer more consistent home time.

5. Schneider National: Similar to J.B. Hunt, Schneider has a terminal in Great Falls. They are a major recruiter for new drivers and offer a variety of routes, including flatbed and intermodal. Their training programs are well-regarded for entry-level drivers. Hiring Trend: High volume of hiring, especially for newer CDL holders.

6. Local Agriculture & Food Processors: Companies like Mountain West Co-op and General Mills (which has a facility in the area) require regular trucking services for shipping grain, flour, and other products. These are often local, daytime routes. Hiring Trend: Seasonal peaks during harvest, but steady year-round demand.

Insider Tip: The best jobs are often found through word-of-mouth at local truck stops like the I-15 Love's Travel Stop or the Flying J. Stop in for a coffee, strike up a conversation. Many local owners don't post on major job boards.

Getting Licensed in MT

Montana's process is straightforward but has specific steps. The total cost for a new CDL can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on if you go through a paid company program or a private school.

1. Get Your Montana Driver's License: If you're new to the state, you must transfer your out-of-state license within 90 days.
2. Pass a Written Knowledge Test: Study the Montana Commercial Driver License Manual. You'll test for General Knowledge, plus any endorsements you want (Air Brakes, etc.).
3. Get Your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): This requires a passing knowledge test and a vision screening. You must hold your CLP for a minimum of 14 days before testing for the CDL.
4. Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): This is a federal mandate as of February 2022. You must complete a registered training program. Many local companies (like Schneider) offer this for free if you sign a contract to drive for them for a set period (e.g., one year).
5. Schedule Your Skills Test: This includes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and an on-road driving test. Schedule this at a Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office that conducts CDL skills tests—the Great Falls office is located at 120 5th Ave S.

Timeline: From starting the process to holding your CDL, expect 4-6 weeks if you're dedicated. If you go through a company's training program, the timeline might be longer due to their schedule but the financial barrier is much lower.

Best Neighborhoods for Heavy Truck Drivers

Not all neighborhoods are equally suited for a trucker's lifestyle. Consider commute, parking (for your personal vehicle and, if you're OTR, for your truck during home time), and access to amenities.

1. Black Eagle: This is a historic, blue-collar neighborhood just north of the Missouri River. It's home to A & L Trucking and the old smelter site. Rents are very reasonable, often $700-$800 for a 1BR. The commute to the 10th Ave S industrial corridor is 10-15 minutes. Best for: Drivers who want a short commute and a tight-knit community feel.
2. South Side: This large residential area, south of Central Ave and west of 10th Ave S, is where many industrial workers live. It's close to major shopping (the Great Falls Mall area), grocery stores, and the MVD. Rents for a 1BR average $750-$850. Best for: Convenience and access to services. Parking is generally easier here.
3. Sun River / West End: Located west of the I-15, this area offers a more suburban feel with newer housing developments. It's a bit farther from the industrial parks (20-25 minute drive), but rents are comparable, around $700-$800. Best for: Families or drivers who prefer a quieter, residential environment away from the city center.
4. Downtown Great Falls: While charming, downtown's historic buildings mean limited parking and higher rents ($850-$1,000+ for a 1BR). It's a short drive to the industrial areas, but not ideal if you need to park a big rig at home. Best for: Drivers who value nightlife and walkability and don't mind a small apartment with limited space.

Insider Tip: If you need to park a personal vehicle that's often used for errands, South Side or Black Eagle are your best bets. Avoid the tight streets of the historic downtown if you have a full-size pickup.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying in the driver's seat is one path, but growth often means evolving your role. In Great Falls, advancement isn't always about moving to a bigger company; it's about specialization and responsibility.

• Specialty Premiums: As noted, endorsements are key. HAZMAT can add $2-$4/hour. Tanker (X) is essential for the oil and agriculture sectors. Doubles/Triples (T) is less common here but still valuable for specific regional loads.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Trainer: Senior drivers can mentor new hires for a premium. This is a common path at J.B. Hunt and Schneider.
  • Owner-Operator: The ultimate goal for many. You'll need significant savings for a down payment on a truck and insurance. Local owner-operators often contract with companies like A & L or Mountain West Oil, focusing on regional routes to maximize home time.
  • Fleet Manager/Safety Coordinator: Transitioning off the road into a managerial role. This requires strong knowledge of FMCSA regulations, logistics software, and people skills. Companies like J.B. Hunt have local offices where such roles are filled.
  • Specialized Heavy Haul: This involves oversized loads, which are less common in Great Falls but do occur for agricultural and construction equipment. It requires additional certification and experience.

10-Year Outlook (4% Growth): The slow but steady growth means competition for the best jobs will increase. Drivers who invest in technology (ELDs, logistics apps), maintain a spotless safety record, and build a strong local network will thrive. The rise of e-commerce will keep demand for regional and last-mile drivers stable, even as long-haul OTR jobs face more automation uncertainty.

The Verdict: Is Great Falls Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very low cost of living and affordable housing.	Wages are slightly below the national average.
Stable job market with diverse employers (ag, oil, national carriers).	Harsh winters can make driving hazardous and reduce home time.
Short commutes to work and amenities.	Limited entertainment compared to larger cities; you need to enjoy the outdoors.
Excellent access to outdoor recreation (Missouri River, Big Belt Mountains).	Smaller job market means fewer options if you want to switch companies.
Strong potential for homeownership.	Can be isolating if you're OTR and away for weeks at a time.
Tight-knit trucking community.	Becoming a trainer/owner-op requires significant local investment.

Final Recommendation: Great Falls is an excellent choice for a heavy truck driver who values stability, affordability, and quality of life over chasing the highest possible salary. It's ideal for drivers who are OTR but want a solid home base to return to, or for regional drivers who want to be home most nights. If you're an entry-level driver looking for an affordable place to get your CDL and start your career, the low cost of living means you can build savings quickly. However, if you're solely motivated by maximizing your annual income and prefer the hustle of a major logistics hub, you might look toward Billings or Bozeman, understanding you'll pay significantly more for housing.

FAQs

Q: What's the winter driving like in Montana?
A: It's a serious part of the job. I-15 and US-2 can see rapid weather changes, with snow, ice, and high winds. You'll need experience with chain laws and winter driving in a heavy vehicle. Many local companies have strict weather policies. It's not a deal-breaker, but it's a non-negotiable skill to develop.

Q: Are there enough jobs for new drivers with no experience?
A: Yes, but with a caveat. National carriers like Schneider and J.B. Hunt have offices in Great Falls and actively recruit new drivers, often with their own training programs. However, the local agricultural and oil companies typically want 1-2 years of experience. Your best bet is to start with a national carrier, gain experience, then transition to a local outfit for better home time.

Q: How is the parking situation for OTR drivers returning home?
A: This is a common concern. Most OTR drivers in Great Falls live in apartments or homes and park their personal vehicles there. If you're an owner-operator with your own truck, you'll need to find secure parking. Some apartment complexes have rules against parking big rigs, so it's crucial to verify this before signing a lease. Many drivers use the parking lots at the Love's or Flying J for short-term stays, but that's not a permanent solution.

Q: Is it worth getting HAZMAT and Tanker endorsements in Great Falls?
A: Absolutely. For the oil and gas industry (Mountain West Oil) and agriculture (fuel for farms), these endorsements are a golden ticket. They open up a significant segment of the local job market that pays higher wages and often offers more consistent, regional routes compared to long-haul.

Q: What's the best way to network locally?
A: Be seen. Go to the Great Falls Truckers Association meetings if they're active. Frequent the coffee shops and diners near the industrial parks (like the Perkins on 10th Ave S) during shift changes. The trucking community here is small and friendly; a recommendation from a fellow driver is often the fastest way to a new job.