Ups Driver Helper Hourly Pay: A Complete Guide
The holiday season is upon us, and UPS is ramping up hiring to meet increased delivery demands. One of the seasonal positions that opens up is UPS driver helper, who rides along with drivers to assist with deliveries.
If you’re considering becoming a UPS driver helper for the holidays, one of your top questions is likely: How much does UPS pay driver helpers per hour?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: UPS driver helpers typically earn around $14 – $30 per hour, depending on location and prior experience. Seasonal driver helper shifts often run 4-8 hours.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about UPS driver helper pay, including average wages, how drivers get paid, pay rates in different cities, tips for earning more as a helper, and more.
Average Hourly Pay for UPS Driver Helpers
National Average Pay Range
The national average hourly pay for UPS driver helpers ranges from $12 to $30 per hour, according to Glassdoor data. This rate can vary based on factors like location, prior UPS experience, and time of year. Driver helpers typically earn on the lower end of the pay scale.
During the busy holiday season, UPS driver helper wages tend to increase due to high package volume. The average holiday pay rates are $18 – $22 per hour. However, these seasonal positions only last through January.
Pay Scale Based on Location
UPS driver helper pay will also differ based on which city and state you work in. For example, average earnings in Los Angeles, CA range from $14 – $23 per hour. In Houston, TX, helpers make around $11 – $18 per hour on average. Major metro areas tend to offer higher wages.
Here are the average hourly wages for UPS driver helpers in select major cities according to Glassdoor and Indeed data:
- New York City: $17 – $28
- Chicago: $14 – $22
- Philadelphia: $13 – $24
- Phoenix: $12 – $18
- San Antonio: $11 – $16
Prior UPS Experience
Applicants with previous UPS experience as a driver, handler, or other position can increase their hourly pay rate as a seasonal helper. Those with 1+ years of UPS experience may earn $3 – $5 more per hour on average.
Driver helpers who perform well during peak season may also be offered permanent part-time handler positions after the holidays, which start at around $14 per hour on average.
How UPS Driver Helpers Get Paid
UPS driver helpers play a crucial role in ensuring packages are delivered efficiently and on time. But how do they get compensated for their hard work? Let’s take a closer look at how UPS driver helpers get paid.
Hourly Wages
UPS driver helpers are typically paid an hourly wage for their services. The exact amount can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the specific collective bargaining agreement in place. On average, UPS driver helpers earn around $15 to $20 per hour.
However, it’s important to note that this can vary and may increase with tenure and performance.
It’s worth mentioning that UPS has a reputation for providing competitive wages to its employees. The company understands the value of its workforce and strives to compensate them fairly for their efforts.
This commitment to fair compensation has contributed to UPS’s reputation as an employer of choice in the transportation and logistics industry.
Bonuses and Incentives
In addition to their hourly wages, UPS driver helpers may also be eligible for bonuses and incentives. These additional earnings can provide an extra boost to their overall compensation.
UPS offers various incentive programs designed to reward exceptional performance and dedication. For example, driver helpers who consistently meet or exceed productivity targets may be eligible for performance-based bonuses.
These bonuses can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on individual and team performance.
Furthermore, UPS also provides opportunities for advancement within the company. Driver helpers who demonstrate exceptional skills and commitment may have the chance to become full-time UPS drivers, which typically come with higher pay and additional benefits.
It’s important to keep in mind that UPS driver helper compensation can vary based on several factors. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to visit the official UPS website or consult with a UPS representative.
Pay Rates for Major Cities
New York City, NY
When it comes to UPS Driver Helper hourly pay rates, New York City, NY stands out as one of the highest paying cities. The bustling metropolis offers competitive wages to attract and retain top talent. On average, UPS Driver Helpers in New York City earn around $15 to $17 per hour.
However, it’s important to note that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience, location within the city, and the specific UPS facility.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles, CA is another city that offers attractive pay rates for UPS Driver Helpers. With its vibrant economy and high cost of living, UPS recognizes the need to offer competitive wages in order to attract and retain employees in this region.
On average, UPS Driver Helpers in Los Angeles earn around $14 to $16 per hour. However, it’s important to keep in mind that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience and the specific UPS facility.
Chicago, IL
Chicago, IL is known for its strong transportation and logistics industry, making it an ideal location for UPS Driver Helpers. The city offers competitive pay rates to ensure that employees are fairly compensated for their hard work.
On average, UPS Driver Helpers in Chicago earn around $13 to $15 per hour. However, it’s important to note that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience, location within the city, and the specific UPS facility.
Houston, TX
Houston, TX is a bustling city with a growing economy, making it an attractive destination for UPS Driver Helpers. The city offers competitive pay rates to ensure that employees are fairly compensated for their contributions. On average, UPS Driver Helpers in Houston earn around $12 to $14 per hour.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience and the specific UPS facility.
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, PA is a city rich in history and opportunities. UPS recognizes the importance of offering competitive pay rates to attract and retain talented individuals in this region. On average, UPS Driver Helpers in Philadelphia earn around $12 to $14 per hour.
However, it’s important to note that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience, location within the city, and the specific UPS facility.
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, AZ is a city known for its warm weather and thriving economy. UPS understands the need to provide competitive wages to attract and retain employees in this region. On average, UPS Driver Helpers in Phoenix earn around $11 to $13 per hour.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience and the specific UPS facility.
San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, TX is a vibrant city with a strong job market. UPS recognizes the importance of offering competitive pay rates to attract and retain talented individuals in this region. On average, UPS Driver Helpers in San Antonio earn around $11 to $13 per hour.
However, it’s important to note that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience, location within the city, and the specific UPS facility.
San Diego, CA
San Diego, CA is a city known for its beautiful beaches and thriving economy. UPS understands the need to provide competitive wages to attract and retain employees in this region. On average, UPS Driver Helpers in San Diego earn around $13 to $15 per hour.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience and the specific UPS facility.
Dallas, TX
Dallas, TX is a city that offers numerous opportunities for employment. UPS recognizes the importance of offering competitive pay rates to attract and retain talented individuals in this region. On average, UPS Driver Helpers in Dallas earn around $11 to $13 per hour.
However, it’s important to note that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience, location within the city, and the specific UPS facility.
San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA is a city located in the heart of Silicon Valley, known for its thriving tech industry. UPS understands the need to provide competitive wages to attract and retain employees in this region. On average, UPS Driver Helpers in San Jose earn around $15 to $17 per hour.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that pay rates may vary based on factors such as experience and the specific UPS facility.
Tips for Earning More as a Driver Helper
Working as a driver helper for UPS can be a great way to earn some extra income, especially during the holiday season when the demand for package deliveries is high. If you’re looking to maximize your earnings as a driver helper, here are some tips to consider:
Pick Up Extra Shifts
If you’re looking to boost your paycheck, one of the most effective ways is to pick up extra shifts whenever possible. UPS often needs additional driver helpers to meet the surge in packages during busy periods.
So, don’t hesitate to ask your supervisor if there are any available shifts that you can take on. By putting in the extra effort and working additional hours, you can significantly increase your hourly pay.
Ask About Bonuses
In addition to your regular hourly pay, UPS offers various bonuses and incentives that can further enhance your earnings. These bonuses can be based on factors such as performance, attendance, or meeting certain goals.
Make sure to inquire about any available bonuses or incentive programs and strive to meet the requirements to qualify for them. Taking advantage of these opportunities can be a great way to boost your income as a driver helper.
Consider Driving for UPS After Seasonal Role
If you enjoy working as a driver helper and want to continue with UPS beyond the holiday season, consider exploring opportunities to become a full-time driver. UPS often hires drivers from within their existing pool of driver helpers, so this can be a great way to transition into a more permanent role with higher earning potential.
Talk to your supervisors or check the UPS careers website for more information on how to apply for a driver position.
Remember, as a driver helper, your hourly pay is determined by the number of hours you work. By taking advantage of these tips and actively seeking opportunities to increase your workload or qualify for bonuses, you can maximize your earnings and make the most out of your role as a driver helper at UPS.
Other UPS Jobs and Pay Rates
UPS Package Handler
If you’re interested in a job at UPS but don’t necessarily want to be a driver helper, you may want to consider becoming a UPS package handler. As a package handler, you’ll be responsible for sorting, loading, and unloading packages.
This job is physically demanding, as it requires you to lift and move heavy packages throughout your shift. However, it can be a great option if you enjoy staying active and working in a fast-paced environment.
According to Glassdoor, the average hourly pay for a UPS package handler is around $14. This can vary depending on factors such as location and years of experience. It’s also worth noting that UPS offers various benefits to package handlers, including healthcare and retirement plans.
UPS Personal Vehicle Driver
If you have your own vehicle and prefer to use it for deliveries, you might consider becoming a UPS personal vehicle driver. This role requires you to use your own car or van to deliver packages within a specific area.
As a personal vehicle driver, you’ll have more flexibility in terms of your schedule and the routes you take.
The hourly pay for UPS personal vehicle drivers can vary, but according to Indeed, the average pay is around $18 per hour. This can be a great option if you prefer to work independently and have control over your own vehicle.
UPS Delivery Driver
If you’re interested in a career as a professional driver, you might consider becoming a UPS delivery driver. As a delivery driver, you’ll be responsible for driving a UPS truck and delivering packages to customers’ homes and businesses.
This role requires a valid driver’s license and the ability to lift heavy packages.
According to Glassdoor, the average hourly pay for a UPS delivery driver is around $27. Again, this can vary depending on factors such as location and years of experience. Becoming a UPS delivery driver can be a rewarding career option if you enjoy being on the road and interacting with customers.
Conclusion
Working as a seasonal UPS driver helper allows you to earn a solid hourly wage and get first-hand experience of what it’s like delivering packages for UPS. By picking up extra shifts when possible and asking about bonus opportunities, you can maximize your hourly pay rate during the busy holiday season.
After your role as a driver helper wraps up, consider applying for a permanent UPS position if you enjoyed the fast-paced, physical nature of the job. With full-time UPS jobs like delivery driver and package handler also paying competitively, you can turn seasonal employment into a long-term logistics career.
