High Pole/Pilot Driver

Corthell Transportation•Williston, ND

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—including bridges, power lines, low-hanging trees, and traffic signs—communicates hazards to the main transport driver, and helps prevent infrastructure strikes. The position involves extended driving on highways, rural roads, and through urban construction zones in varied weather and traffic conditions. Personal protective equipment is required on-site, including a high-visibility safety vest, hard hat, steel-toed boots, and eye protection. Pay depends on experience and is hourly, with overtime after eight daily hours, daily per diem, and hotels paid.

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) may be preferred or required by certain employers.

Responsibilities

Run ahead of oversized loads to gauge and physically test vertical clearances at 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-mandated routing rules, and pre-trip survey instructions before and during the move.
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.