Heavy Truck Driver in Jamestown, ND

The Salary Picture: Where Jamestown Stands

Alright, let's talk numbers. If you're a heavy truck driver looking at Jamestown, the median salary is the first thing you need to get your head around. According to the latest data, the median salary for a Heavy Truck Driver in Jamestown is $51,975 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.99. This is slightly below the national average of $53,090 per year, but in a city where the cost of living is significantly lower, that difference matters less than you might think.

The job market here is tight but stable. There are currently 63 jobs available for this role in the metro area. The 10-year job growth projection is a modest 4%. This isn't a boomtown scenario, but it’s not stagnant either. It reflects a consistent, steady demand driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and regional distribution.

To give you a clearer picture of how your earning potential stacks up over time, here’s a breakdown based on experience levels. These figures are extrapolated from the median and regional data for North Dakota.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$40,000 - $45,000	Typically local routes, less specialized equipment.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$50,000 - $60,000	Aligns closely with the median. May handle regional hauls.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$60,000 - $70,000	Often involves specialized loads (tanker, hazmat) or trainer roles.
Expert/Owner-Op (15+ years)	$70,000+	Can exceed $100k with the right contracts, but carries more risk.

How Jamestown Compares to Other ND Cities

Jamestown's salary is competitive within the state, especially when you factor in the cost of living. A driver in Fargo might earn a bit more on paper, but their housing costs are often double what you'd pay here.

City	Median Salary (Heavy Truck Driver)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)
Jamestown	$51,975	93.0
Fargo	$54,200	92.5
Bismarck	$52,500	95.1
Grand Forks	$50,800	90.5

The data shows Jamestown offers a solid middle ground. You're not getting the lowest salary in the state, nor the highest, but the dollars stretch further here.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get down to what you actually take home. A salary of $51,975 is a gross figure. After federal taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and North Dakota state taxes (which are relatively low), your monthly take-home pay will be approximately $3,300. This is a conservative estimate, as deductions for health insurance or retirement plans would lower this amount.

Now, let's look at the biggest fixed cost: rent. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Jamestown is $837 per month. This can vary, but it's a reliable baseline.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a single person earning the median salary:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$3,300	After taxes and basic deductions.
Rent (1BR)	$837	Can be as low as $700 in some areas.
Utilities	$150	Includes heat, electricity, internet.
Groceries	$350	For one person, cooking at home.
Fuel/Car Insurance	$250	Assuming a used vehicle; lower if you have a company truck.
Health Insurance	$200	If purchased on the marketplace; often covered by employer.
Miscellaneous	$300	Phone, personal care, occasional dining out.
Savings/Debt	$1,213	Leftover for student loans, savings, or extra payments.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

With a monthly surplus of over $1,200, buying a home in Jamestown is absolutely feasible for a single driver earning the median salary. The median home price in the Jamestown metro area is approximately $165,000. A 20% down payment would be $33,000, but many local lenders offer FHA or rural development loans with much lower down payments (sometimes as low as 3.5%). Your monthly mortgage payment on a $165,000 home, including taxes and insurance, would likely be between $900 - $1,100, which is very manageable with your budget.

Where the Jobs Are: Jamestown's Major Employers

The job market here is anchored by a few key industries: agriculture, manufacturing, and regional logistics. You won't find mega-carriers like Swift or Schneider with massive terminals, but you will find stable, long-term employers who value experienced drivers.

1. Simplot Grower Solutions: A major player in the agricultural sector, Simplot operates a large facility near the James River. They need drivers for local and regional hauls of potato products and fertilizers. Hiring is seasonal but consistent.
2. Midwest Motor Express: This is a regional LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) carrier with a terminal in Jamestown. They offer steady, predictable routes throughout the Midwest. They’re known for good equipment and are a great fit for drivers who prefer a set schedule.
3. RDO Equipment Co.: As a John Deere dealership, RDO needs drivers to move heavy equipment from their Jamestown location to farms across the region. This is specialized work that often pays a premium.
4. KLJ Engineering: While not a trucking company, this major engineering firm has a Jamestown office and frequently needs drivers for specialized hauls of construction materials and equipment for local infrastructure projects.
5. Jamestown Business Incubator (Local Logistics): Several smaller logistics and trucking companies operate out of this hub. It's a good place to find niche opportunities, like hauling for local manufacturers or specialized freight.
6. ND State Hospital: While not a traditional freight employer, the state hospital complex has its own fleet for moving supplies and equipment. The jobs are stable, with state benefits, and often have a set 9-5 schedule.
7. Regional Farm Co-ops: Several local co-ops, like Jamestown Farmers Grain Co., hire drivers for seasonal grain hauling. This is intense work during harvest but can be very lucrative.

Insider Tip: Many of the best jobs never get posted online. The driver community in Jamestown is tight-knit. Stop by the local truck stops (like the Kum & Go on I-94) or the Dakota Square Mall parking lot where drivers gather. A face-to-face conversation can often uncover an unlisted opportunity.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota's licensing process is straightforward but has specific requirements, especially for road tests.

• Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP): You must pass a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a medical exam from a certified FMCSA medical examiner. There is a mandatory 14-day waiting period after getting your CLP before you can take the road test.
• CDL Road Test: You'll need to provide a vehicle that matches the class of CDL you're seeking (e.g., a tractor-trailer). In Jamestown, road tests are typically administered by the ND Department of Transportation (NDDOT) office in town. It's wise to call ahead (701-252-1000) to schedule an appointment and confirm the vehicle requirements.
• Endorsements: If you want to haul tankers (N endorsement), hazmat (H endorsement), or doubles/triples (T endorsement), you'll need separate knowledge tests and, for hazmat, a TSA background check (which costs about $86.50 and takes time).
• Total Estimated Cost: For a standard Class A CDL with no endorsements, expect to pay around $250 - $400. This includes the permit fee, road test fee, and the actual CDL issuance. If you attend a CDL school (the closest major ones are in Fargo or Bismarck), tuition can range from $3,000 to $6,000.

Insider Tip: The NDDOT office in Jamestown can get busy. Go early in the morning, especially on a weekday. Have all your documents (proof of ND residency, medical card, etc.) organized and ready to go.

Best Neighborhoods for Heavy Truck Drivers

Living in Jamestown is easy, with minimal traffic and straightforward commutes. As a truck driver, you'll want to consider parking, access to I-94, and proximity to services.

• West Side (near I-94):

  • Vibe: The most convenient for a driver. Easy on/off the interstate. Home to many hotels, restaurants (like the iconic Pioneer Pizza), and truck-friendly services.
  • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month for a 1BR. Good selection of newer apartment complexes.
  • Best For: Drivers who value a quick commute to the interstate and want amenities within walking distance.

• North Side (near the University of Jamestown):

  • Vibe: Quieter, more residential. The commute to the industrial areas or I-94 is still only 10-15 minutes.
  • Rent Estimate: $700 - $850/month for a 1BR. You can find older, more affordable houses or duplexes here.
  • Best For: Drivers who prefer a calmer home environment and don't mind a short drive to work.

• East Side (near the James River):

  • Vibe: A mix of older homes and new developments. Closer to parks and the riverwalk. The commute to the western industrial parks is easy via the Main Ave bridge.
  • Rent Estimate: $800 - $950/month. Slightly higher due to proximity to the river and downtown.
  • Best For: Drivers who enjoy outdoor activities and want a balance of city access and quiet living.

• South Side (near the NDDOT and State Hospital):

  • Vibe: Very practical. Close to government and healthcare employers. Can feel a bit more isolated from the main commercial strip.
  • Rent Estimate: $650 - $800/month. Often the most affordable option.
  • Best For: Budget-conscious drivers or those who land a job at the State Hospital or a nearby industrial yard.

Insider Tip: Avoid the immediate downtown core if you drive a sleeper cab. Street parking is limited, and navigating some of the older, narrower streets with a long vehicle can be a hassle. The neighborhoods just outside downtown offer much easier parking.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Jamestown, career growth for a heavy truck driver is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about specialization and reliability.

• Specialty Premiums: The money is in the niches. Adding a Tanker (N) or Hazmat (H) endorsement can bump your pay by $2-$5 per hour. Drivers who can handle oversized/overweight permits for farm equipment or machinery (a common need here) are in high demand during planting and harvest seasons.
• Advancement Paths: The most common path to a higher income is moving from a company driver to an owner-operator. You'll need a strong credit score and a solid business plan, but the earning potential is significantly higher. Another path is into logistics or dispatch. Many local companies promote their most reliable drivers into these roles after they've built trust and understand the regional routes.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% job growth is modest, but it's tied to the stability of Jamestown's core industries. Self-driving truck technology is a distant concern for a regional hub like Jamestown; the local routes, farm access roads, and specialized loads (like livestock or delicate equipment) will require skilled human drivers for decades to come. The biggest threat to local employment is an economic downturn in the agricultural sector, but North Dakota's economy has proven resilient.

The Verdict: Is Jamestown Right for You?

Jamestown is a pragmatic choice for a heavy truck driver. It’s not a glamorous hotspot, but it offers a high quality of life for the cost, stable work, and a community that values a blue-collar work ethic.

Pros	Cons
Very Low Cost of Living: Your salary stretches far, making homeownership achievable.	Limited Nightlife/Entertainment: It's a quiet, family-oriented town.
Stable, Predictable Job Market: Less volatility than major freight hubs.	Winters are Harsh: Snow, ice, and extreme cold are a real part of the job.
Minimal Traffic: Easy commutes, even in a big rig.	Fewer Major Carrier Options: Less variety in company culture and benefits.
Strong Sense of Community: You'll get to know your neighbors and local business owners.	Isolation: It's a 90-minute drive to Fargo, the nearest major city.
Access to Outdoor Recreation: Hunting, fishing, and camping are world-class nearby.	Limited Specialized Training Locally: You may need to travel for advanced courses.

Final Recommendation: Jamestown is an excellent fit for a heavy truck driver who is looking to put down roots, build equity, and enjoy a stable, less stressful career. It's ideal for drivers in their 30s, 40s, or 50s who are past the "see the country" phase and want to focus on family, finances, and a predictable schedule. If you're a young driver craving a fast-paced, high-volume environment, you may find Jamestown too slow.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get a CDL in North Dakota?
The fastest possible timeline is about 3-4 weeks. This includes the 14-day mandatory waiting period after getting your CLP. If you attend a CDL school, plan for 4-8 weeks of full-time training, plus the permit and road test time.

2. Is it hard to find parking for a semi-tractor in Jamestown?
It's easier than in most cities. There are several large truck stops on I-94 (like the Kum & Go and Petro). Many employers also have private lots for employees. However, you cannot park a semi in a residential neighborhood overnight. Make sure your apartment complex or landlord has designated truck parking if you're considering living there.

3. What's the winter driving like for truckers in Jamestown?
It's challenging. I-94 is a primary east-west corridor and is aggressively plowed, but rural roads to farms and industrial sites can be treacherous. You must have experience with chains and know how to handle black ice. Many local jobs have a "weather delay" policy, but you are expected to be prepared.

4. Are there any union trucking jobs in Jamestown?
Union representation is not common in Jamestown's trucking industry. Most local employers are non-union. However, some regional carriers that service the area may have union contracts. It's best to ask about this directly during the interview process.

5. What's the best way to find a job before moving?
Check Indeed.com and NDworks.gov (the state's job board). Also, look up the websites of the major employers listed above and apply directly. However, your best bet is to contact a local CDL driving school (even if you're already licensed). They often have direct pipelines to local employers and know who is hiring.