🗺 Location & Routes
- Base city: Newark, NJ
- Route type: Local Home Daily
- Freight: Intermodal containers (rail + port)
- Schedule: Monday–Friday early AM dispatch with occasional weekend rail shifts
📋 Job Description
- Haul intermodal containers between CSX and Norfolk Southern rail ramps in Newark and Port Newark terminals
- Perform drop & hook operations with 100% no-touch freight on rail chassis
- Reposition loaded and empty containers to distribution centers in Elizabeth, Linden, Carteret, and Secaucus
- Coordinate with rail appointment systems to align with train arrivals from Midwest and Southeast corridors
- Navigate short-haul routes (10–80 miles) through busy port and warehouse districts
- Maintain accurate ELD logs and rail documentation while operating day cab tractors
✅ Requirements
CDL Class A
Valid CDL-A license required
Experience
12+ months verifiable CDL-A experience
Age
Minimum 21 years old
MVR
Clean driving record, no major violations
Physical
Able to climb in/out of cab and handle chassis pins (mostly no-touch freight)
Endorsements
TWIC card preferred
🚛 Equipment & Fleet
- Truck assignment: Dedicated Freightliner Cascadia Day Cab
- Fleet average age: 3 years
- Features: Rail chassis systems, collision mitigation, backup cameras, ergonomic cabs
- Transmission type: Automatic
- Maintenance program: In-house shop with mobile repair support for urban operations
🏠 Home Time
- Return to Newark terminal every evening
- Consistent Monday–Friday schedule with predictable shifts
- Early AM start times aligned with rail arrivals
- Occasional weekend availability for high-volume rail moves
📍 Real Routes Our Drivers Take
- Newark CSX Ramp → Port Newark terminals → Elizabeth distribution centers (round trip)
- Norfolk Southern intermodal yard → Linden / Carteret warehouses (short chassis moves)
- Port Newark → Secaucus cross-dock facilities with return to home terminal
🎁 Benefits & Bonus Structure
📝 Hiring Process
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position truly home daily?
Yes. All drivers return to the Newark terminal each evening after completing their assigned moves.
What kind of freight will I haul?
Intermodal shipping containers only — 100% drop & hook with no loading or unloading required.
Do I need a TWIC card?
TWIC is strongly preferred for port access, but we can assist qualified drivers in obtaining one.
How does rail congestion affect my day?
Delays are possible during peak rail periods, but most routes stay within 10–80 miles and we adjust dispatches accordingly.
What chassis equipment will I use?
Modern rail chassis systems specifically designed for intermodal container transport.
Is overtime available?
Yes, particularly during weekend rail surges and high-volume weeks.
💼 Career Opportunities
Newark, New Jersey remains one of the strongest markets for local intermodal CDL-A drivers due to its strategic position as a major East Coast rail and port hub. This Local CDL-A Intermodal Rail Driver role provides a stable foundation with consistent weekly earnings between $1,300–$1,750, quarterly safety bonuses, and a modern 3-year-old Freightliner Cascadia fleet. Drivers typically begin in yard and local chassis operations, gaining deep knowledge of rail ramp procedures, port protocols, and tight urban distribution networks. From here, internal pathways include advancement to dedicated local accounts, regional runs along the I-95 corridor, or specialized intermodal trainer positions. Many experienced drivers move into yard supervisor or dispatch roles, leveraging their firsthand understanding of rail scheduling and chassis management. The company supports long-term growth through ongoing safety training, fleet technology upgrades, and a clear promotion track to Transportation Coordinator or Fleet Lead positions. With steady freight volumes from national rail corridors feeding into the Northeast, this role offers industry stability rarely found in over-the-road positions. Drivers build valuable port and rail credentials that open doors across the logistics sector while enjoying predictable home time every night in the Newark area.
🔗 Local CDL-A Intermodal Rail Driver – Newark, NJ
Looking for stable local CDL-A driving work in the Newark area? This intermodal rail driver position offers home daily schedules, competitive weekly pay of $1,300–$1,750, and a $1,200 sign-on bonus. Drivers operate late-model Freightliner Cascadia day cabs moving containers between CSX and Norfolk Southern rail ramps, Port Newark terminals, and nearby warehouses in Elizabeth, Linden, Carteret, and Secaucus. The role features 100% no-touch drop & hook freight on rail chassis with automatic transmissions and an average fleet age of just 3 years. Early morning dispatches align with train arrivals, keeping most routes short and manageable (10–80 miles). With 12 months of CDL-A experience and a clean MVR, you can qualify for this essential position supporting critical East Coast supply chain logistics. Newark’s position as a major intermodal gateway ensures consistent freight and earning potential without the long-haul lifestyle. Whether you’re transitioning from port drayage, seeking better home time, or wanting modern equipment with strong maintenance support, this local intermodal opportunity provides reliability and growth in one of the busiest freight markets in the country.
🚀 Apply for This CDL-A Position
Complete the form below to apply for Local CDL-A Intermodal Rail Driver in Newark, NJ.