When most people think of driving jobs, they picture long-haul trucking or local package delivery. But there’s another option that often flies under the radar: local propane delivery. It’s steady, year-round work with a routine schedule, and while it carries responsibility, it can be a great fit for both newcomers to the industry and seasoned drivers looking to simplify their careers.
What Does a Propane Delivery Driver Do?
A propane delivery driver’s primary responsibility is to transport and deliver propane safely to residential, agricultural, and commercial customers. Instead of long-haul trips, you’ll usually be working within a set local area, driving a propane bobtail truck, and returning home at the end of each shift.
The work includes:
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Driving a specialized propane delivery truck.
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Connecting hoses and filling customer tanks.
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Performing safety checks and leak tests.
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Handling paperwork and documenting deliveries.
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Communicating with dispatch and customers.
It’s not just driving — it’s part truck driving, part customer service, and part safety technician.
Who Is This Job a Good Fit For?
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Entry-Level Drivers – If you’re new to CDL work, propane delivery can be a stable way to build experience without life on the road.
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Late-Career Drivers – Many seasoned drivers choose propane delivery as a “wind-down” job. It offers regular hours, home every night, and weekends off with most companies.
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Anyone Seeking Steady, Local Work – Propane demand is year-round, peaking in the winter, but steady enough to provide reliable employment.
Pros of Propane Delivery
✅ Home Daily – Unlike OTR (over-the-road) trucking, you sleep in your own bed every night.
✅ Predictable Schedule – Most positions run Monday through Friday, with weekends off.
✅ Year-Round Work – Unlike some seasonal jobs, propane delivery stays steady, especially in colder regions.
✅ Community Connection – You’ll build relationships with repeat customers.
✅ Safety Culture – Strict procedures are in place, and as long as you follow them, the job is safe.
Cons of Propane Delivery
⚠️ Hazardous Material – You’ll be hauling flammable gas, so attention to detail is critical.
⚠️ Physical Work – Handling hoses and tanks requires some lifting and outdoor labor.
⚠️ Lower Pay Compared to OTR – Typically not as high-paying as long-haul trucking, though often competitive with other local driving jobs.
⚠️ Peak-Season Demands – Winters can mean longer days to keep up with customer needs.
Job Requirements
While requirements vary by employer, most propane delivery jobs require:
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Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), usually Class B
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Hazardous Materials (HazMat) and Tanker Endorsements
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Clean driving record
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Ability to pass DOT physical and drug testing
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Basic mechanical aptitude and customer service skills
Some companies provide paid training for new hires, especially if you have a CDL but not HazMat certification yet.
How to Find Propane Delivery Jobs
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Local Propane & Fuel Companies – Check with companies like AmeriGas, Ferrellgas, Suburban Propane, or smaller local providers.
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Job Boards – Indeed, CDL Job Now, or niche trucking job boards often list propane delivery positions.
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Networking – Talk to current propane drivers or ask at local truck stops and driver groups.
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Seasonal Opportunities – Some companies hire extra drivers for the busy winter season, which can be a good foot in the door.
Tips for Applying
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Highlight safety awareness in your resume — propane companies want careful, responsible drivers.
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If you’re at the start of your career, emphasize reliability and willingness to learn.
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If you’re near retirement, highlight your years of driving experience and customer service strengths.
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Be prepared for background checks and safety-focused interviews.
Final Thoughts
Local propane delivery isn’t the flashiest driving job, but it’s steady, respectable work. For someone starting out, it’s a chance to gain CDL experience without endless miles on the interstate. For someone nearing retirement, it’s a way to stay active, earn supplemental income, and enjoy weekends and evenings at home.
If you’re looking for a safe, steady, and community-based driving job, propane delivery might just be the right fit.
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