High Pole/Pilot Driver

Corthell Transportation•Boise, ID

About The Position

The High Pole/Pilot Driver operates a designated lead pilot car equipped with a vehicle-frame-mounted high pole system, traveling directly ahead of oversized and overweight freight. The role verifies vertical clearances in real time, communicates hazards promptly to the main transport driver, and helps prevent infrastructure strikes. The position involves extended driving on highways, rural roads, and through urban construction zones, with exposure to varied weather and traffic conditions. On-site personal protective equipment includes high-visibility safety vests, hard hats, steel-toed boots, and eye protection. Pay is hourly and depends on experience; overtime is paid after eight daily hours. Daily per diem and hotel costs are provided.

Requirements

Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
State-recognized Pilot/Escort Vehicle Operator (P/EVO) certification, such as WITPAC or applicable state-specific credentials.
Defensive driving course training.
Familiarity with professional high-pole setups, including vehicle-frame-mounted systems and striker tips, amber warning lights, and two-way radios.
High attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and situational awareness.
Willingness to travel or work flexible or irregular hours.

Nice To Haves

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), which may be preferred or required by certain employers.

Responsibilities

Run ahead of oversized loads to gauge and physically test vertical clearances around bridges, overpasses, utility lines, and tree branches.
Maintain constant two-way radio contact with the main truck driver, other pilot cars, and multi-vehicle escort teams.
Review transport permits, state routing rules, and pre-trip survey instructions before and during moves.
Warn surrounding traffic and the main driver about road restrictions, sharp turns, narrow lanes, and active work zones.
Inspect, adjust, and secure the high pole, warning lights, flags, oversized-load banners, and communication gear daily.
Document route anomalies, report clearance issues, and help coordinate safe passage through complex intersections.