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Rail Yard Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

... rail yard. This role is crucial to maintaining a smooth workflow, spotting trailers into active ... Must have previous experience as a Yard Hostler/Yard Goat, operating yard equipment or tractor ...

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

... rail yard. This role is crucial to maintaining a smooth workflow, spotting trailers into active ... Must have previous experience as a Yard Hostler/Yard Goat, operating yard equipment or tractor ...

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

... rail yard. This role is crucial to maintaining a smooth workflow, spotting trailers into active ... Must have previous experience as a Yard Hostler/Yard Goat, operating yard equipment or tractor ...

VBeyond

Certified Forklift Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

... yard. Remove palletized shingles from production line and transport to storage area. Load ... Warehouse and material handling of decking and rails.

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All JobsRail Yard Operator JobsRail Yard Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Rail Yard Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$21

$26

How much do rail yard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail yard operator in Riverside, CA is $21.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Rail Yard Operator vs Switcher Operator?

AspectRail Yard OperatorSwitcher Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, industrial settingsRail yards, industrial settings
Industry UsageCommonly used in rail yards for managing train movementsOften used interchangeably with Rail Yard Operator, focusing on switching tasks

Both Rail Yard Operators and Switcher Operators work in rail yards, handling train movements and switching cars. While their roles are similar, Rail Yard Operators may have broader responsibilities, including overseeing yard operations, whereas Switcher Operators primarily focus on moving and organizing railcars within the yard.

What does a rail yard operator do?

A rail yard operator is responsible for coordinating the movement and organization of trains and railcars within a rail yard. They direct the coupling, uncoupling, and positioning of railcars, operate switching equipment, and ensure safety procedures are followed during yard operations. Strong communication skills and knowledge of safety protocols are essential for this role.

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Rail Yard Operator jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Rail Yard Operator job openings:

Rail Yard Operator jobs near you

Yard Hostler Driver

Moreno Valley, CA • On-site

Cargomatic
Trucking • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Cargomaticexternal

$23 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Drive specialized terminal tractors to maneuver trailers between parking stalls, staging zones, and loading docks.

  • Perform trailer inspections, verify trailer numbers, and log trailer movements using digital systems.

  • Communicate with warehouse and logistics staff to coordinate trailer placement and ensure proper loading and unloading.

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

Employment Type: On-Site | Experienced 

Compensation: $23.00 - $26.00 per hour

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.

 
 

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