How to Be Monster Truck Driver/Rider - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 21, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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The cause of the increased demand for Monster Truck drivers and riders is the growing popularity of Monster Truck shows and events. Drivers and riders are needed to operate the massive vehicles and perform stunts, such as jumps, wheelies and donuts. This demand is also driven by the thrill-seeking audience who come to witness these daredevil stunts.

Furthermore, the Monster Truck industry is growing in size, with more and more events being held worldwide. As a result of this increased demand, Monster Truck drivers and riders are now earning higher salaries and enjoying greater job security. In addition, the Monster Truck industry is providing excellent opportunities for aspiring drivers and riders to showcase their skills and make a name for themselves.

Steps How to Become

Become Familiar With the Monster Truck Industry. To become a successful Monster Truck Driver/Rider, you should familiarize yourself with the industry. Research the different types of Monster Trucks and their capabilities, as well as the regulations and safety procedures associated with driving them.
Obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL). To drive a Monster Truck, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid Commercial Drivers License (CDL). You can obtain a CDL by taking classes at a driver-training school or by enrolling in an online program.
Join a Professional Monster Truck Racing Team. To gain more experience driving Monster Trucks, you should join a professional racing team. This will provide you with the opportunity to practice your driving skills, learn from experienced drivers, and get noticed in the industry.
Practice and Compete. To become a successful Monster Truck Driver/Rider, you must practice and compete regularly. Make sure to stay up-to-date on the latest tricks, techniques and safety procedures.
Network With Other Drivers. To build relationships with other drivers and learn more about the Monster Truck industry, you should attend Monster Truck events and network with other drivers.

As a Monster Truck driver/rider, one needs to be knowledgeable and experienced in order to drive/ride safely and efficiently. First, one must be familiar with the different types of Monster Trucks and their capabilities to ensure they choose the right truck for the job. Second, it is important to know the rules and regulations of the sport to ensure safety for all involved.

Third, a driver/rider should understand the basics of suspension setup and steering geometry to maximize the potential of their truck and ensure a smooth ride. Finally, one should practice driving/riding regularly to stay sharp and develop muscle memory. When all of these elements are taken into consideration, Monster Truck drivers/riders can be confident that they are ideal and efficient at what they do.

You may want to check Skateboarder/Rider, Kayaker/Rider, and Horse Rider for alternative.

Job Description

Drive Monster Trucks in competitions and exhibitions
Perform stunts and tricks with Monster Trucks
Perform maintenance and repairs on Monster Trucks
Load and unload Monster Trucks for transportation
Demonstrate driving techniques to new drivers and riders
Follow safety rules and regulations on and off the track
Monitor Monster Trucks for optimal performance
Inspect Monster Trucks for compliance with safety regulations
Communicate with sponsors, event organizers, and fans
Train drivers and riders in safety procedures and driving techniques

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of truck mechanics and basic repair
Ability to operate and maneuver large trucks in a safe and efficient manner
Experience in operating manual and automatic transmissions
Knowledge of local, state and federal laws governing vehicle safety and operation
Ability to read maps and follow directions
Ability to maintain and inspect vehicle before, during and after use
Ability to work in a team environment
Physically able to handle the rigors of the job, such as climbing into and out of the truck
Understanding of applicable safety rules and regulations
Ability to communicate effectively with co-workers, supervisors, and race officials
Ability to make quick decisions in a dynamic environment
Ability to stay focused and alert during races or events

Being a successful truck driver or rider requires having a variety of skills and abilities. The most important skill is the ability to remain focused and attentive at all times. This includes maintaining concentration when driving for long periods of time, monitoring traffic laws, and keeping an eye out for any potential hazards.

Having good driving skills is also essential, as maneuvering a large truck in tight spaces can be difficult. Other important skills include the ability to make quick decisions, good communication skills, and problem-solving skills. Lastly, its important to have the physical stamina and strength to handle the rigors of being a monster truck driver or rider.

When all these skills are combined, they can help ensure a safe, successful, and rewarding career in monster trucking.

Delivery Driver/Rider, Horse Jockey/Rider, and Bus Rider are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have driving/riding monster trucks?
What safety protocols do you follow when operating a monster truck?
How do you ensure the proper maintenance of a monster truck before and after races?
What troubleshooting strategies do you use when dealing with mechanical issues related to a monster truck?
How do you handle difficult or hazardous track conditions?
How do you manage crowd control during events?
How do you handle the pressure of being in the drivers seat of a monster truck?
What strategies do you employ to entertain the crowd during events?
How would you rate your ability to quickly assess and react to changing race conditions?
What techniques do you use to minimize risk while operating a monster truck?

Common Tools in Industry

Safety Equipment. Protective clothing and gear (e. g. helmet, gloves, overalls) to protect a driver/rider from potential injury.
Suspension System. A system designed to provide a smooth ride for the driver/rider and to absorb shocks from the terrain. (e. g. coilover shocks, leaf springs)
Steering Wheel. A device used to control the direction of the Monster Truck. (e. g. hydraulic steering, power steering)
Transmission System. An engine component that connects the engine to the wheels and provides power to them. (e. g. manual transmission, automatic transmission)
Tire Changing Tools. Tools used to change tires on a Monster Truck. (e. g. tire irons, lug wrenches)
Engine Maintenance Tools. Tools used to maintain and repair the engine of a Monster Truck. (e. g. spark plug wrench, oil filter wrench)
Racing Tools. Tools and equipment used for racing Monster Trucks. (e. g. timing lights, timer boards)

Professional Organizations to Know

Monster Truck Racing Association (MTRA)
United States Hot Rod Association (USHRA)
National Hot Rod Association (NHRA)
Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA)
American Motorcycle Association (AMA)
Professional Bull Riders (PBR)
American Autocross Racing Association (AARA)
National Tractor Pullers Association (NTPA)
World Championship Monster Truck Racing (WCMT)
International Monster Truck Association (IMTA)

We also have Donkey Rider, Raft Guide/Rider, and Delivery Service Rider jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Monster Truck Racing. A form of motorsport in which large, specially modified pickup trucks compete in races with obstacles.
Monster Truck Shows. An entertainment event featuring Monster Truck racing and often other activities such as freestyle motocross, car-crushing demonstrations, and wheelie competitions.
Off-Road Racing. A form of motorsport that takes place on unpaved surfaces, typically including mud, rocks, and other natural terrain.
Motocross Racing. A form of off-road motorcycle racing held on enclosed off-road circuits.
Rock Crawling. A type of off-road motorsport in which drivers attempt to traverse difficult terrain, usually large rocks, using modified vehicles with large tires and high ground clearance.
Dirt Track Racing. A form of motorsport that takes place on an oval dirt track, typically with stock cars or modified vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required to become a Monster Truck Driver/Rider?

To become a Monster Truck Driver/Rider, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, and be able to pass a background check. Additionally, some organizations may require additional qualifications such as the completion of a driving school or an advanced driving certification.

What are some of the key responsibilities of a Monster Truck Driver/Rider?

The key responsibilities of a Monster Truck Driver/Rider include preparing and maintaining the vehicle prior to an event, driving and performing stunts during live events, and providing post-event maintenance.

How much money do Monster Truck Drivers/Riders typically make?

The salary of a Monster Truck Driver/Rider can vary greatly depending on their experience, the size of the organization they are working for, and the number of live events they participate in. However, on average, Monster Truck Drivers/Riders make an annual salary of around $60,000.

What is the safety record of Monster Truck Drivers/Riders?

The safety record of Monster Truck Drivers/Riders is generally very good. Most organizations have strict safety protocols in place to ensure the safety of both drivers and spectators. Additionally, all Monster Truck Drivers/Riders must pass a background check and be licensed before being allowed to compete in events.

What type of equipment is used by Monster Truck Drivers/Riders?

Monster Truck Drivers/Riders use a variety of specialized equipment including modified suspension and engine systems, large-diameter tires, roll cages, and heavy-duty protective gear. Additionally, they also use specialized tools such as hydraulic jacks and winches.