Regional Class A-CDL Owner Operator - Reefer at Echelon Transportation LLC – Chicago, Illinois

As an Owner-Operator with Echelon Transportation, you’ll partner with a logistics leader specializing in high-value and cold-chain freight. This role is responsible for the safe, timely, and compliant transport of shipments, with a strong focus on maintaining Good Distribution Practice (GDP) standards to protect product integrity. You’ll benefit from mapped/validated trailers, consistent freight, transparent settlements, and access to cost-saving programs—while retaining full control of your business. At Echelon, we treat Owner-Operators as partners, providing the support and respect you need to run profitably and independently.

We’re not just moving freight—we’re building partnerships. At Echelon, Owner-Operators aren’t treated like disposable capacity. We know you’ve invested hundreds of thousands of dollars into your truck, your business, and your career. That’s why we’ve built a model designed to maximize your earnings, minimize your downtime, and respect your independence.

Here’s what makes us different:

• High-Value Freight = Higher Earnings: We specialize in high-value, time-sensitive, and cold-chain shipments. These lanes pay more because they demand professionalism and reliability. We reward that.
• Consistency Without the Headaches: No endless chasing of backhauls. Our network provides steady, pre-planned freight so you can stop worrying about your next load.
• Fast, Transparent Settlement: Weekly pay. No hidden deductions. You’ll know exactly what you earned and why.
• Support Without Control: We provide the reefer trailer, handle dispatch, billing, and customer management—but you stay in charge of your business.
• Lower Your Costs, Raise Your Margins: Access to fuel discounts, insurance programs, and maintenance partners that cut your overhead. We’re not here to nickel-and-dime you—we’re here to put more money in your pocket.
• A Reputation That Works for You: Shippers trust us because we’re selective. That means our name opens doors, and our brand works for you.
• Professional Respect: We don’t talk down to drivers. You’re a business owner, and we treat you like one. That means clear communication, no BS, and no false promises.

• Safely transport freight in Echelon trailer with your own truck per assigned route / lanes.
• Load / unload or coordinate with freight handlers as required.
• Maintain product integrity throughout our chain of custody.
• Ensure all high-value and temperature-sensitive shipments are handled, documented, & transported in compliance with GDP Standards.
• Maintain vehicle in roadworthy condition: regular maintenance, DOT inspections, proper insurance.
• DOT / FMCSA compliance with HOS, Log regulations, any required endorsements, insurance, ability to pass inspections.
• Communicate regularly with dispatch re: delays, issues, schedule changes.
• Uphold company standards for customer service, safety, and professionalism.
• Strong communication skills, reliability, proactive when issues arise (e.g. mechanical, weather, delays).

• Valid Class A-CDL in good standing.
• 24 months of verifiable experience.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Proof of ownership or valid lease of a Semi-truck (w/ sleeper).
• Clean MVR/driving record.
• Experience running owner-operator business: familiar with own cost control, maintenance, routing.

Benefits

• 2023-24 Reefer trailers provided
• 401K
• Health & Dental
• Samsara fleet management software
• Weekly pay
• Regional Freight moves w/ regular home time