How To Become a Propane Delivery Driver: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as a propane delivery driver, including education, skills, salary and more.
Propane delivery drivers are responsible for delivering propane to customers in a safe and timely manner. This job requires excellent customer service skills and the ability to lift and move heavy objects. If you are interested in becoming a propane delivery driver, it is important to learn about the job requirements and the steps you need to take to pursue this career. In this article, we discuss what a propane delivery driver does, the average salary and how to become one.
What Does a Propane Delivery Driver Do?
Propane delivery drivers are responsible for the safe and timely delivery of propane to customers. They typically work for propane companies or gas stations and may be required to deliver propane to both residential and commercial customers.
The duties of a propane delivery driver include:
- Inspecting the condition of the truck before each delivery
- Checking the pressure and level of propane in the tank
- Connecting hoses from the truck to the customer’s tank
- Opening valves to allow propane to flow from the truck to the customer’s tank
- Monitoring the transfer of propane to ensure it is flowing properly
- Closing valves and disconnecting hoses once the transfer is complete
- Recording the amount of propane delivered and updating records
- Collecting payment from customers
- Providing excellent customer service
Propane Delivery Driver Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for a propane delivery driver is $54,075 per year. However, this figure can vary based on factors such as the company size, geographical location, and level of experience.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job prospects for propane delivery drivers will grow at an average rate over the next decade. The growing demand for propane gas, particularly in the residential sector, is expected to drive this growth.
How to Become a Propane Delivery Driver
Here are several steps you should take to become a propane delivery driver.
1. Earn a high school diploma or equivalent
Propane delivery drivers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to start this career. Some employers may prefer candidates who have taken courses in math, science and mechanical engineering. You can also consider taking classes in auto mechanics, welding and chemistry to help you better understand the propane industry.
If you don’t have a high school diploma, you can earn an equivalency certificate by passing a test approved by your state’s education department.
2. Obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) with a hazmat endorsement
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required to drive a propane delivery truck. To obtain one, you must be at least 21 years old and pass a written test and driving test. The written test covers road signs, traffic laws and general knowledge about safe driving practices. The driving test assesses your ability to operate a large vehicle in various conditions.
The hazmat endorsement on your CDL allows you to transport hazardous materials like propane. You may also need to complete a background check before obtaining your CDL.
3. Complete training provided by your employer
Most employers require new drivers to complete a training program before they start working. This typically lasts several weeks or months and covers topics such as safety, loading and unloading propane tanks, customer service and route planning. Some employers may also have their new drivers shadow an experienced driver for a few weeks to help them learn the job.
4. Gain experience driving a propane delivery truck
Once you have obtained your CDL with a hazmat endorsement, consider applying for entry-level propane delivery driver positions. It is helpful to gain experience driving a truck before working as a delivery driver because many employers require it.
Working as an assistant to a more experienced propane delivery driver can help you learn how to operate a truck and deliver propane safely and efficiently. You may also be able to work as a delivery driver for another type of product, such as food or fuel, to gain experience before working as a propane delivery driver.
5. Develop strong customer service skills
Customer service skills are important for propane delivery drivers to interact with clients and provide them with the best experience possible. Drivers should be friendly, polite and helpful when speaking with customers. They should also listen carefully to any concerns or special requests from their clients and do their best to meet those needs.
Drivers should always arrive on time for appointments and inform their clients of any changes in plans. They should also check that tanks are full before leaving a property and offer to help move furniture if necessary.
6. Be able to lift heavy objects and use a hose
Propane delivery drivers must be able to lift heavy objects and use a hose. The propane tanks that they deliver are very heavy, so you need to have the strength to carry them safely from your truck to the customer’s home or business.
You also need to know how to connect a hose to a tank and then open it to allow the gas to flow into the customer’s storage container.
7. Have good map reading skills
A propane delivery driver needs to have good map reading skills so they can find the locations of their customers and deliver the propane on time. Drivers should know how to use a GPS device or other mapping tools to ensure they don’t get lost while driving in unfamiliar areas. It’s also important for drivers to be familiar with local traffic laws and regulations, as well as any specific safety precautions related to propane deliveries.
