Need advice.

Which city/town are you near in New Mexico?
I'd go with Schneider and try to get in the tanker division. Tanker drivers make real good money with about any company.
KKW Trucking will also probably hire you. They run western states and Texas.

At least contact KKW and then compare the pay package before making a final decision.

 

Get 12 mos. experience with one of those companies, then plenty of other opportunities for the big paying jobs.
Here's an example of one where you can make over $100K:
Trimac Transportation Teams - Albuquerque, NM
Earn average $109,000 per Team Driver
$12,000 Sign On Bonus per Team
Apply to Rock Springs, WY
1 year verifiable tractor trailer experience
Valid Class A Commercial truck driver’s license (CDL)
Hazmat/Tanker Endorsements
TWIC card (Transportation Worker Identification Card). Visit tsa.gov for more information on how to obtain.

 

Western Express isn't a choice, it's a last resort. As long as you have options, you shouldn't even think about Western.

 

Here's one that pays really well; some are making over $70K once they get all the training behind them.
McLane Company - Shuttle Driver (Albuquerque, NM)
Possess a CDL Class A License and successful completion of the McLane Driver Training Program.

This position is responsible for the delivery of full trailers to the Domicile and taking empty trailers back to the Distribution Center.
Apply online.
This isn't OTR, so it may not be what you want.

 

Student Driver - Albuquerque, NM - No experience necessary.

Labatt Food Service is now hiring for a Student Driver at the Albuquerque location.

The Student Driver position is a paid training that teaches you the ins and outs of being a Route Driver for Labatt Food Service. This includes unloading 600-1,200 cases per day by hand at designated stops, learning how to drive a tractor-trailer 10-speed with a splitter, and interacting with customers. The routes are local and you will be able to be home with your family every night. Monday-Friday. No experience necessary. Must have a valid New Mexico Class A CDL or New Mexico Class A permit.

Candidates are welcome to fill out an application online or in-house. For an in-house application, please visit us at the Albuquerque office located at 221 Airport Dr. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87121 Monday-Friday from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. Must bring a valid NM Class A CDL or Class A Permit and proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

 

I went through the same with another food service company. I was sore and thought I made a mistake taking the job. Then before long, I had muscles bulging out all over the old body. People thought I was hitting the gym. In two or three weeks you'll adjust and be ok.