Cary native Trey O’Shea spends most of his days on four wheels between two buns. 

O'Shea is one of the drivers of the famous Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. The Green Hope High School graduate is about halfway through his one-year stint as "Tailgate Trey," traveling the country in the ultimate road trip. 

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There are six Wienermobiles traveling the country each year. All have two drivers. It is similar to an entry-level marketing job, O'Shea says. He and co-pilot "Meatloaf Maggie" started in June bringing the giant hot dog on wheels to events in various cities across the country. 

Although the 27-foot hot dog might look big enough to sleep in, it isn't a "wienerbago," O'Shea says. They sleep at hotels and get a stipend to pay for meals. They usually have two days off during tour stops so they can explore the city. 

O'Shea was inspired to apply for the job after hearing stories from one of his professors at VCU who was a driver many years ago. 

"Once I heard about all of his awesome stories and how he brought positivity everywhere he went, I just knew this was the job for me so I put in an application," O'Shea said.  

For O'Shea this week's tour stop meant parking the Wienermobile in his parent's driveway and getting homecooked meals from his mom. 

How to become a Wienermobile driver? 

Applications are due at the end of the January each year and the gig is for one year (June-to-June). Only 12 positions are available for six vehicles. You need to be a recent college graduate with a bachelor's degree in marketing, journalism or communications. Applications are closed for 2026, but keep an eye on the Wienermobile website for updates on when applications open for 2027. 

Where to find the Wienermobile this week in the Triangle

Thursday, Feb 26 - Harris Teeter MEAT-Up
1-5 p.m. at 4221 Corners Parkway, Raleigh

Friday, Feb 27  – Bricks ‘N Brews: Wienermobile Build Challenge
Noon to 4 p.m. at 1118 Kentworth Dr, Holly Springs

Saturday, Feb 28  – Western Wake Farmers' Market
8:30 a.m. to noon at 101 Town Hall Drive, Morrisville

Sunday, Mar 1  – Marbles Kids Museum
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 201 E Hargett St, Raleigh