Student Driver Trying to decide on a company with good pay hometime & get experience

Yes, you need hazmat endorsement for the tanker companies that hire new CDL grads.
Also think about companies with APU's so you can be comfortable during layovers and down time, plus using electronic equipment such as computers, TV, video games without running the trucks batteries down. Many companies, cities, states have strict idling laws and rules.
Here's a few coast-to-coast companies to consider:

Tyson Foods
Melton Truck Lines - APU's
Navajo Express - new Kenworth's with APU's.

 

Some will let unload the freight yourself but honestly as an OTR driver can be useful for catching a nap cause you never know you may need to drive 8-10hrs after the truck is unloaded. So since you are unloading you would have to logged in as on duty which just eats up your 14hr clock and cuts into your drive time.

 

How about OTR tanker outfits that train?

 

You have to complete CDL school first; at least 160 hours, then these companies will hire you for OTR hazmat/tanker:

Schneider Bulk
SVTN
CTL Transportation
Superior Carriers
Tidewater Transit
Trimac Transportation

3 companies that have their own CDL school and tanker divisions:

Prime Inc. (food grade)
Stevens (oil field water)
FFE (oil field water)