Research Summary. Using a combination of public government and company data, along with insights from thousands of job postings, the Zippia data team has generated average salary estimates for various jobs across the US. Based on this data set, the team has identified the highest-paid types of owner/operators based on their average annual salaries.
Here is a summary of our findings for the highest-paying types of owner/operators:
-
Operator And Truck Driver is the highest-paid type of owner/operator with an average salary of $250,847 and an average hourly rate of $120.60.
-
The second highest-paying type of owner/operator is driver/owner operator, with an average salary of $169,793.
-
The average owner/operator salary is $167,288 per year, and the average hourly pay is $80.43.
Table Of Contents: Background | Table | Methodology | FAQs
Background
Choosing a career path can be challenging, and while salary is a crucial factor in your decision, it shouldn’t be the only consideration. Understanding the highest-paying owner/operator roles can help you plan your career trajectory effectively.
Here are the top salaries for various types of owner/operators:
-
Operator And Truck Driver
Average Salary: $250,847
An operator and truck driver is responsible for the safe and efficient transport of goods. To excel in this role, one must possess the necessary skills and credentials, including a valid license for operating large vehicles and the endurance for long hauls. Compliance with traffic regulations and conducting regular vehicle maintenance checks are also essential. Moreover, effective coordination with clients and team members is crucial to ensure timely and accurate deliveries.
-
Driver/Owner Operator
Average Salary: $169,793
Driver/owner-operators are self-employed truck drivers who transport goods for their clients. Many begin their careers working for established trucking companies to gain valuable experience before transitioning to owner-operator status. This role allows them to choose between freelance work or entering into lease agreements with specific companies. Aspiring owner-operators should consider various factors, including business setup, vehicle selection, and necessary licenses.
-
Managing Partner
Average Salary: $147,401
Managing partners oversee a company’s daily operations and are responsible for strategic and administrative decision-making. They maintain positive client relations and collaborate with employees, executives, and board members. Key responsibilities include recruitment, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing corrective actions. Candidates should possess a degree in business administration or a related field, alongside strong leadership and communication skills.
-
Managing Owner
Average Salary: $111,101
-
Operating Partner
Average Salary: $93,101
An operating partner coordinates a portfolio company’s operations and acts as a liaison with private equity firms. Their duties include team assessment, objective setting, guideline establishment, market research, and operational strategy development. They analyze data to identify strengths and weaknesses in existing processes, recommend solutions, and optimize operations. Moreover, effective communication with staff and adherence to company policies is essential.
Below is a comprehensive table of the highest-paying owner/operator roles, followed by an explanation of our methodology.
Highest-Paying Types Of Owner/Operators
| Rank | Job Title | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Operator And Truck Driver | |
| 2 | Driver/Owner Operator | |
| 3 | Managing Partner | |
| 4 | Managing Owner | |
| 5 | Operating Partner | |
| 6 | Owner | |
| 7 | General Manager/Partner | |
| 8 | Entrepreneur | |
| 9 | Truck Driver-Over-The-Road | |
| 10 | Company Driver | |
| 11 | Truck Driver Class A | |
| 12 | CDL Driver | |
| 13 | Over The Road Driver | |
| 14 | Truck Driver | |
| 15 | Tractor-Trailer Driver | |
| 16 | CDL Class A Driver | |
| 17 | Business Owner | |
| 18 | Commercial Driver | |
| 19 | Transportation Driver | |
| 20 | Co-Owner/Operator |
Methodology
Zippia utilizes publicly available information from government sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Foreign Labor Certification Data Center (FLC), and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to develop its salary estimates.
Our data science team also reviews job postings and company resources for the latest salary information for owner/operators.
After compiling the data, the team calculates a weighted average for each job title being estimated. For further details on our salary methodology, please read the detailed methodology.
Highest-Paying Types Of Owner/Operator Jobs FAQs
-
What is the highest-paid owner/operator job?
The highest-paid owner/operator job is an operator and truck driver. Operators and truck drivers earn an average salary of $250,847, which equates to $120.60 per hour.
Operators and truck drivers are responsible for the safe and efficient transport of goods. They must have the skills and credentials necessary for driving large vehicles and the stamina for long hauls. Compliance with traffic rules and conducting regular vehicle maintenance checks are essential. Furthermore, effective communication with clients and team members is crucial for accurate and timely deliveries.
-
What is a good salary for an owner/operator?
A good salary for an owner/operator is $167,288 or more. The average owner/operator salary is $167,288, so those earning at least this amount are considered to be making above-average paychecks.
However, it’s essential to note that average salaries can vary based on location, as companies may adjust their pay scales according to the local cost of living. Researching the average salary in your area for your expertise and experience level will provide a clearer picture of your earning potential.
If you’re just starting your career as an owner/operator, the average entry-level salary is around $132,536. Therefore, it’s important to consider that the $167,288 average includes owner/operators across all experience levels.
-
Do Owner/Operator jobs pay well?
Yes, owner/operator jobs pay well. While some owner/operator roles may offer higher salaries than others, the average salary of $167,288 is significantly higher than the average national salary of approximately $44,225 per year.
Additionally, many owner/operator positions have excellent earning potential, with the top 10% earning an average of $206,331 annually.
Keep in mind that owner/operator salaries can fluctuate based on experience, industry, and location. It’s advisable to conduct thorough research on the prevailing rates for owner/operators in your area and leverage that information when negotiating your salary.
-
Where do owner/operators get paid the most?
Owner/operators earn the most in North Dakota. In North Dakota, owner/operators have an average annual salary of $175,054, translating to an hourly wage of $84.16.
Following North Dakota, the states with the highest-paid owner/operators are Wyoming, Utah, and Oregon, with average salaries of $180,627, $174,457, and $188,607, respectively.
The cities with the highest-paid owner/operator salaries include:
-
Bridgeport, CT – $188,221
-
Des Moines, WA – $184,425
-
Wilmington, DE – $181,608
-
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
