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Hostler Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$22 - $27.25/hr

Yard Hostler Driver Locations & Schedules: * Moreno Valley, CA - * Monday - Thursday, 3:00 PM -1:00 AM * Friday - Sunday, 3:00 PM - 1:00 AM * Prince George, VA * Monday - Thursday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

New

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Moreno Valley, CA

$22 - $27.25/hr

Yard Hostler Driver Locations & Schedules: * Moreno Valley, CA - * Monday - Thursday, 3:00 PM -1:00 AM * Friday - Sunday, 3:00 PM - 1:00 AM * Prince George, VA * Monday - Thursday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $26.50/hr

Yard Hostler Driver Yard Hostler Driver Locations & Schedules: * Moreno Valley, CA * Monday - Thursday, 3:00 PM - 1:00 AM * Friday - Sunday, 3:00 PM - 1:00 AM * Prince George, VA * Monday - Thursday ...

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $28/hr

Yard Hostler Driver Locations & Schedules: * Moreno Valley, CA - * Monday - Thursday, 3:00 PM -1:00 AM * Friday - Sunday, 3:00 PM - 1:00 AM * Prince George, VA * Monday - Thursday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

New

XPO Logistics

Dockworker (Hostler)

Fontana, CA · On-site

$28.16 - $34.22/hr

What you'll need to succeed as a Dockworker (Hostler) at XPO Minimum qualifications: * Be at least ... A valid driver's license * Able to do basic math calculations, with and without a calculator * To ...

Vektor Logistics

Yard Hostler (2nd Shift)

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $28.25/hr

Valid California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record * Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a yard hostler/spotter truck or comparable heavy equipment * Ability to safely ...

New

BIAGI BROS INC

Hostler Spotter

Sonoma, CA

$23 - $25/hr

Driver may be required to complete tasks inside the warehouse depending on requirements of the ... Primarily work is performed in a hostler truck/outdoors. Employee will be exposed to hot, cold, wet ...

XPO

Dockworker (Hostler)

Fontana, CA

$28.16 - $34.22/hr

What you'll need to succeed as a Dockworker (Hostler) at XPO Minimum qualifications: * Be at least ... A valid driver's license * Able to do basic math calculations, with and without a calculator * To ...

CR England

Yard Hostler

Delano, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Yard Hostler Location: Shafter, CA Pay: $24.00 Schedule: Morning Summary: We are seeking an ... Valid driver's license * ⁠Ability to operate yard goats and other material handling equipment ...

Vektor Logistics

Yard Hostler (1st Shift)

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $28.25/hr

Valid California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record * Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a yard hostler/spotter truck or comparable heavy equipment * Ability to safely ...

New

TEC Group

Yard Hostler (1st Shift)

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Valid California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record * Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a yard hostler/spotter truck or comparable heavy equipment * Ability to safely ...

TEC Group

Yard Hostler (2nd Shift)

Rancho Cordova, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Valid California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record * Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a yard hostler/spotter truck or comparable heavy equipment * Ability to safely ...

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All JobsHostler Driver JobsHostler Driver Jobs in California

Hostler Driver information

See California salary details

$10

$22

$27

How much do hostler driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for hostler driver in California is $22.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hostler driver?

A hostler driver is a professional responsible for moving trucks, trailers, or other vehicles within confined areas such as warehouses, distribution centers, freight yards, or ports. Unlike long-haul truck drivers, hostler drivers typically do not drive on public roads but instead reposition vehicles for loading, unloading, or maintenance purposes. Their work is essential for ensuring efficient logistics operations and smooth workflow within transportation hubs. Hostler drivers may also be referred to as yard jockeys, yard spotters, or switchers. Safety, attention to detail, and familiarity with heavy vehicle operation are important skills for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hostler driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hostler Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), strong knowledge of yard operations, and experience operating tractor-trailers or yard trucks. Familiarity with vehicle inspection protocols, yard management systems, and safety regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this position. These abilities ensure the safe, efficient, and organized movement of trailers and equipment within busy logistics or warehouse environments.

What are some common challenges faced by hostler drivers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Hostler Drivers often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maneuvering large trailers in tight spaces, and maintaining safety while operating heavy equipment. Effective communication with yard supervisors and other team members is crucial to avoid congestion and ensure efficient workflow. Staying up to date on safety protocols and regularly inspecting equipment can help Hostler Drivers manage risks and maintain a smooth yard operation. With experience, many Hostler Drivers can advance to supervisory or logistics roles within the company.

What is the difference between Hostler Driver vs Yard Driver?

AspectHostler DriverYard Driver
CredentialsDriver's license, possibly CDLDriver's license, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentPorts, terminals, warehousesYard, shipping yards, ports
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, portsLogistics, shipping, ports
Job FocusMoving containers between trucks and storagePositioning and organizing containers in yard

Hostler Drivers and Yard Drivers both operate vehicles in port and shipping environments, often requiring similar licenses. The main difference is that Hostler Drivers typically move containers between trucks and storage areas, while Yard Drivers focus on organizing and positioning containers within the yard. Both roles are essential in port logistics and share similar credentials and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Hostler Driver jobs in California?

For Hostler Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hostler Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Hostler Driver jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Hostler Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Hostler Driver job openings:

Hostler Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hostler Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,076 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Yard Hostler Driver

Cargomatic

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$22 - $27.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Cargomatic rating

4.3

Company rating: 4.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Yard Hostler Driver

Locations & Schedules:

  • Moreno Valley, CA -
    • Monday – Thursday, 3:00 PM –1:00 AM
    • Friday - Sunday, 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM
  • Prince George, VA
    • Monday – Thursday, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    • Monday - Thursday, 6:00 PM – 4:00 AM
    • Friday – Sunday, 8:00 PM – 6:00 AM
    • Friday – Sunday, 6:00 PM – 4:00 AM
Yard Hostler Driver

The Yard Hostler Driver is responsible for safely and efficiently moving semi-trailers, shipping containers, and straight trucks around a warehouse, distribution center, or rail yard. This role is crucial to maintaining a smooth workflow, spotting trailers into active loading dock doors, staging areas, and parking stalls without driving on public highways.

Key Responsibilities

  • Shunting Trailers: Drive specialized terminal tractors to maneuver 53-foot trailers between parking stalls, staging zones, and active loading docks.

  • Hydraulic Control: Use in-cab hydraulic lifts to raise and lower trailer legs, moving equipment safely without the need to manually crank landing gear.

  • Yard Management: Verify trailer numbers for accuracy and log every trailer movement using onboard digital systems, inventory tracking tools, or dockyard management systems.

  • Safety & Inspection: Perform thorough pre-trip and post-trip equipment inspections on yard tractors and trailers. Chock trailer wheels, manage dock locks, and report any damage or maintenance needs to supervisors.

  • Coordination & Communication: Communicate effectively with warehouse, dock, and logistics staff via two-way radio or phone to ensure trailers are placed correctly for loading and unloading schedules.

  • General Maintenance: Keep the yard clean, organized, and safe. Use assigned fuel stations to fuel vehicles as needed and accurately fill out driver vehicle inspection reports and logs accurately.

Requirements & Qualifications

  • Driver's License: Must have a clean driving record and be able to pass an MVR background screening.

  • Experience:

    • Must have previous experience as a Yard Hostler/Yard Goat, operating yard equipment or tractor-trailers, a minimum of 2+ years of experience is highly preferred.

    • Experience repositioning, driving, and hauling international and/or domestic containers is required.

  • Spatial Skills: Exceptional mirror-backing and maneuvering skills in tight, congested, and busy industrial spaces.

  • Knowledge of Regulations: Working knowledge of DOT regulations governing safe driving, hours of service, inspection, maintenance, and vehicle safety control systems.

  • Basic Skills: Ability to read, write, and perform basic mathematical calculations to handle receipts, maintain logs, and use handheld minicomputers/tablets.

Physical Requirements

  • Physical Stamina: Comfort working outdoors in all weather conditions and frequently climbing in and out of the tractor cab.

  • Lifting: Ability to safely lift and transport items, sometimes up to 50 pounds.

  • Medical Standards: Must meet the medical standards of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) DOT Department of Transportation, which includes passing a drug and alcohol test.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Cargomatic is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

What Cargomatic employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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