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Local Yard Driver Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Non CDL Local Yard Driver

Saint James, MN ยท On-site

$23 - $24/hr

About US 1 Shorthaul's Yard Jockey (Spotter / Switcher) Position: PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES ... local laws. If you are experiencing issues or have questions, please email us at recruiting ...

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Local Yard Driver information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$19

$28

How much do local yard driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for local yard driver in Minnesota is $19.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by local yard drivers, and how can they effectively manage them?

Local Yard Drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces, coordinating with warehouse teams, and managing time efficiently during high-traffic periods. Effective communication with dispatchers and dock personnel is essential to avoid delays and ensure accurate trailer placement. Staying organized, being attentive to safety protocols, and remaining flexible when schedules or priorities shift can help drivers manage these challenges successfully and maintain smooth yard operations.

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

To thrive as a Local Yard Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (often a CDL Class A or B), knowledge of safe maneuvering practices, and experience operating yard tractors or hostlers. Familiarity with yard management systems, handheld scanners, and basic vehicle inspection tools is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and time management are important soft skills for effective coordination and safety. These abilities ensure efficient movement of trailers and containers within the yard, prevent accidents, and support smooth logistics operations.

What is the difference between Local Yard Driver vs Truck Loader?

AspectLocal Yard DriverTruck Loader
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL often preferredNone or basic forklift certification
Work EnvironmentYard, warehouse, or distribution centerLoading/unloading trucks, warehouse
Industry UsageLogistics, transportation, distributionWarehousing, freight handling
Job FocusDriving and yard managementLoading/unloading cargo

The main difference is that a Local Yard Driver primarily operates vehicles within a yard or local area, focusing on driving and yard management, while a Truck Loader specializes in loading and unloading trucks, often working alongside drivers. Both roles are essential in logistics and distribution, but they require different skills and certifications.

What is a local yard driver?

A Local Yard Driver, sometimes called a yard jockey or yard hostler, is responsible for moving trailers and containers around a freight yard, warehouse, or distribution center. They do not typically drive on public roads but instead ensure that trailers are positioned correctly for loading, unloading, and storage within the facility. Local Yard Drivers play a crucial role in keeping warehouse operations efficient and organized, often working closely with dispatchers and warehouse staff. Their job may also involve performing basic inspections and minor maintenance on vehicles.
What are popular job titles related to Local Yard Driver jobs in Minnesota? For Local Yard Driver jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Local Yard Driver jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Local Yard Driver job openings:
Infographic showing various Local Yard Driver job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,547 per year, or $20 per hour.

Non CDL Local Yard Driver

US 1 Shorthaul

Saint James, MN โ€ข On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Looking for job that gives YOU more?

Work with us and get more than a job.

We offer OVER 20 benefits! Grow with us at US 1 Shorthaul!

About US 1 Shorthaul's Yard Jockey (Spotter / Switcher) Position:


PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Correctly move trailers in and out of dock with yard goats
  • Responsible for drop and hook
  • Accurately perform yard audits at end of shift
  • Proper pre- and post-trip inspections and submitting reports indicating truck conditions
  • Adhere to guidelines of safety-sensitive functions pertaining to job responsibilities within yard
  • Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by management

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

  • Possess a team-player attitude
  • Ability to read, understand, and demonstrate safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals
  • Ability to request and complete trailer moves in the Yard Management System (YMS)
  • Attention to detail
  • Understanding and communicating in the English language is a requirement


EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, REQUIREMENTS:

  • Experience backing 48' to 53' trailers (including to dock doors and in tight spaces)
  • Minimum of 12 months of over the road or trailer spotting verifiable experience in the last 3 years
  • Minimum MVR requirements met
  • No preventable DOT accidents within the past 3 years
  • No application falsifications, application must include 10-year verifiable employment history with no gaps in employment
  • This position must pass pre-hire background and drug test
  • No drug related charges, past failed drug screens, past refused drug screens, and no SAP programs
  • No felony convictions within the past 7 years
  • Class A CDL (preferred)
  • Clearinghouse query consent
  • PSP below 90


POSITION TYPE, PAY, AND EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

  • This is a full-time non-exempt (hourly) position, paid weekly


TRAVEL:

  • No OTR for this position

About US 1 Shorthaul:

US 1 Shorthaul offers short division logistics services throughout 48 states, leading with integrity, experience, and most of all - safety. By utilizing the latest supply chain management technology, we implement an efficiency-driven process that provides our customers with practical solutions tailored to meet their goals with precision.


**No freight handling**

**No OTR**

**Home Daily**

**DROP & HOOK**


US 1 Shorthaul offers the following Perks & Benefits:

  • Weekly Pay
  • Paid Time Off
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Healthcare Flexible Savings Account (FSA)
  • Prescription Drug Benefits
  • 24-Hour NurseLine
  • 24/7 Virtual Doctor Visit
  • Employer paid Life Insurance
  • Employer paid AD&D Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability Benefits
  • Accident Benefits
  • Critical Illness Benefits
  • Wellness Screening Benefites

** PLUS MORE!**

US 1 Shorthaul is an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") Employer. In keeping with our commitment, we welcome all to apply including veterans and individuals with disabilities. US 1 Shorthaul does not discriminate against employees or applicants on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state, and/or local laws.




If you are experiencing issues or have questions, please email us at recruiting@us1shorthaul.com.