1

Hostler Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Yard Jockey/hostler experience a plus * Must B at least 21 years of age * Current DOT Medical Certificate * Clean MVR * Able to pass pre-employment drug and background screenings Competitive Pay and ...

Yard Associate

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.72/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Yard Associate

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.72/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Yard Associate

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.72/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Move trailers throughout the property, and operate a hostler in all types of weather * Enter job times and parts on repair orders to track activity * Operate specialized tooling and vehicles * Ensure ...

If hostler/yard mule duties required, experience preferred. * Ability to count and perform basic math, with or without a calculator. * Basic written and verbal communication skills. * Ability to lift ...

Yard Associate

Ruckersville, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.72/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Yard Associate

Ruckersville, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.72/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Yard Associate

Manassas, VA · On-site

$19.85 - $27.30/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Yard Associate

Ruckersville, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.72/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Yard Associate

Manassas, VA

$19.85 - $27.30/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Yard Associate

Manassas, VA

$19.85 - $27.30/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Yard Associate

Manassas, VA · On-site

$19.85 - $27.30/hr

Porter Hostler, Yard Hand, Yard Jockey, Yard Spotter, Entry Level Mechanic, Mechanic Trainee, Construction Laborer, Washbay Attendant, Equipment Washer, Forklift Driver, Warehouse Worker Base Pay ...

Showing results 21-40

Hostler information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$22

$28

How much do hostler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for hostler in Virginia is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hostler?

Historically, a hostler was a worker who tended horses and mules for travelers staying at an inn, though that is obviously no longer the case. Modern hostlers are workers who transport cargo and shipping containers over short distances, usually within a freight or train yard. As a hostler, you use a forklift or yard truck to hook and unhook trailers, secure their doors, ensure they are loaded and emptied as assigned, and park them in the correct places. You assist drivers who have questions and direct unresolved issues to your supervisor. Other duties include inspecting the truck and trailers, ensuring safety regulations are strictly observed, completing minor repairs, documenting and reporting more significant maintenance and safety issues, and submitting documents promptly. Additional responsibilities include keeping the yard clean and free of trash and weeds, and painting as needed.

What are some common challenges faced by hostlers when working with large fleets or in busy facilities?

Hostlers often work in fast-paced environments where managing the movement of many vehicles or railcars can be challenging. They must coordinate closely with dispatchers, mechanics, and other team members to ensure efficient operations and prevent bottlenecks. Weather conditions, tight schedules, and the need to maintain safety standards can add additional complexity. Adaptability, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are crucial for overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Hostler vs Truck Driver?

AspectHostlerTruck Driver
Required CredentialsDriver's license, possibly CDLCommercial Driver's License (CDL)
Work EnvironmentParking lots, terminals, warehousesRoads, highways, delivery routes
Employer & Industry UsageLogistics, shipping yards, warehousesFreight companies, transportation services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Hostlers primarily move trailers within a yard or terminal, focusing on parking and repositioning. Truck drivers operate vehicles on roads, delivering goods over long distances. While both roles require a CDL and involve transportation, hostlers work mainly in controlled environments, whereas truck drivers are on the road. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in the logistics industry.

Infographic showing various Hostler job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $46,287 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Yard Jockey, Nights

Gold Star Foods

Richmond, VA • On-site

$26.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Gold Star Foods rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 49 rated food wholesalers


Job description


Gold Star Foods is a leading nutritional food distributor for K-12 schools in the United States and we know that it’s our people who make the difference!  We are seeking CDL A Yard Jockey to join our team in Richmond, Virginia.  This integral position within the organization works closely with our shipping and transportation teams in a friendly, professional manner, to ensure trucks are working and properly loaded.

Schedule

  • Sundays  - Thursdays (occasional Fridays)
  • Night Shift Start Times: 2pm weekdays until loading is complete, and 9am Sunday (schedule subject to change)
  • Average: 50-55 hours in a 5-day work week

Principle responsibilities:

  • Review nightly schedule and ensure initial trailer placement is correct.
  • Ensure initial temp settings on the refer units are correct.
  • Follow prescribed nightly equipment location diagram.
  • Perform periodic temp checks on trailers throughout the night.
  • Perform minor repair duties as needed.
  • Perform a fuel level check on equipment.
  • Shuttle required equipment to designated locations as per schedule and Supervisor needs.
  • Report any equipment malfunctions to Supervisor.
  • Operate an industrial truck to move materials and product 
  • Take inventory of trailers in the yard 
  • Move trailers to and from repair shops as needed
  • Other responsibilities as assigned
  • Coordinate with shipping team to ensure trucks are at dock to be loaded as needed
  • Consistent, on-time attendance is a key responsibility
  • Complies with all DOT rules and regulations

 Required Skills:

  • Tractor trailer backing skills
  • Minor repair skills
  • Organizational and strategic thinking skills
  • Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work under pressure and exercise good judgement
  • Ability to follow safety regulations and check mechanics of the vehicle
  • Capacity to sit for extended periods of time
  • Capacity to lift up to 50 pounds throughout the day
  • Ability to work overtime 

 Qualifications:

  • Valid Class A Driver’s License with 1 year of commercial driving experience
  • Yard Jockey/hostler experience a plus
  • Must B at least 21 years of age
  • Current DOT Medical Certificate
  • Clean MVR 
  • Able to pass pre-employment drug and background screenings

Competitive Pay and Benefits:

  • $26.50 per hour
  • up to 9 Paid Holidays
  • Competitive Health Insurance
  • Paid Time Off 
  • 401(k) with Company match
  • Time off (up to 12 weeks) available during summers and school holidays

Do you have a Class A CDL and a clean driving record?


What Gold Star Foods employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom