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Shunter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cascades

Shunter Driver

Rochester, NY · On-site

$22/hr

Join us as a Shunter Driver in Rochester and help bring materials to life in a workplace where health and safety always come first. What's in it for you Taking care of our people is in our nature ...

Aurizon

Qualified Shunter

Stuart, FL · On-site

Qualified Shunter Back to search results Apply now Job Number: 96850-594438 Work type: Casual Location: Stuart Categories: Transport Operations & Logistics Location: Stuart We're looking for a safety ...

Glanbia

Warehouse Operator

Clovis, NM · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

RC Shunter * Small forklift operations * Keeps records in accordance with good manufacturing process and local and state laws. * Utilizes GPS processes, driving zero losses and upholds the culture of ...

Glanbia

Warehouse Operator

Clovis, NM · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

RC Shunter * Small forklift operations * Keeps records in accordance with good manufacturing process and local and state laws. * Utilizes GPS processes, driving zero losses and upholds the culture of ...

Glanbia

Warehouse Operator

Clovis, NM · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

RC Shunter * Small forklift operations * Keeps records in accordance with good manufacturing process and local and state laws. * Utilizes GPS processes, driving zero losses and upholds the culture of ...

Glanbia

Warehouse Operator

Clovis, NM

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

RC Shunter * Small forklift operations * Keeps records in accordance with good manufacturing process and local and state laws. * Utilizes GPS processes, driving zero losses and upholds the culture of ...

All JobsShunter Jobs

Shunter information

See salary details

$5

$16

$22

How much do shunter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for shunter in the United States is $16.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Shunters in managing rail yard operations?

Shunters often encounter challenges such as working in all weather conditions, coordinating movements with multiple team members, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. The role requires keen attention to detail to avoid delays and prevent accidents, as shunters are responsible for assembling and disassembling trains efficiently. Effective communication with signalers, drivers, and yard supervisors is crucial, as is adapting to changing schedules or priorities throughout shifts.

What qualifications do shunting jobs require?

Shunter jobs typically require a valid forklift or locomotive operator license, good physical fitness, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Some positions may also require prior experience with rail or freight handling and basic safety training. Qualifications can vary depending on the employer and specific role.

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

To thrive as a Shunter, you need a strong understanding of railway operations, manual handling skills, and typically a relevant vocational qualification or on-the-job training. Familiarity with radio communication systems, railway signaling technology, and sometimes specific safety certifications like Personal Track Safety (PTS) are important. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and the ability to work well under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the safe and efficient movement of rail vehicles within yards, minimizing risks and maintaining operational schedules.

What are the duties of a shunter?

A shunter is responsible for moving railway cars or trucks within a yard or terminal to organize and assemble trains or loads. They operate switching equipment, such as locomotives and hand tools, and ensure safety protocols are followed during vehicle movements. Shunters often work in outdoor environments and may need to hold relevant safety certifications or licenses.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A shunter, also known as a yard switcher, can earn around $4,000 weekly in some regions, especially with overtime and experience. These roles typically require strong organizational skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and sometimes certification in railway operations or equipment handling. High-paying logistics or transportation roles without a degree often depend on experience and union agreements.

What is the difference between Shunter vs Yard Operator?

AspectShunterYard Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a valid driver's license and safety certificationsRequires similar licenses and safety training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, freight terminals, industrial sitesRail yards, freight terminals, industrial sites
Employer & Industry UsageRail companies, freight operatorsLogistics companies, freight handling facilities
Job FocusMoving rail cars within yards, coupling/uncouplingManaging freight movement, organizing rail cars

Both Shunters and Yard Operators work in rail yards and freight terminals, handling rail cars and ensuring smooth operations. While their roles overlap, Shunters primarily focus on moving and coupling rail cars, whereas Yard Operators may have broader responsibilities in managing freight logistics within the yard.

What are shunters?

Shunters are railway workers responsible for moving train carriages and wagons within rail yards, depots, and stations. Their main role is to organize and assemble trains by coupling and uncoupling wagons, ensuring the correct formation for scheduled services. Shunters work closely with train drivers and signal operators to ensure safe and efficient yard operations. The position requires attention to detail, good communication skills, and a strong focus on safety procedures.
More about Shunter jobs
What states have the most Shunter jobs? States with the most job openings for Shunter jobs include:
Shunter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shunter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,887 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Shunter Driver

Cascades

Rochester, NY • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Welcome to Cascades!

Every day, our team takes pride in rolling up their sleeves to create products that are mindful of the environment.
Join us as a Shunter Driver in Rochester and help bring materials to life in a workplace where health and safety always come first.

What’s in it for you

Taking care of our people is in our nature - so you’ll enjoy:

  • Starting pay: $22.00
  • Hours: 6:00am to 4:00pm
  • Full-time position with guaranteed hours for job stability
  • A full range of benefits: group insurance, telemedicine, and an employer-contributed retirement plan
  • Profit sharing and employee share purchase plan - so you can share in our success
  • Employee assistance program, because your physical and mental well-being matters
  • Referral bonus - help grow the team and get rewarded
What you’ll do

As a Shunter Driver, you’ll be at the heart of operations - right on the floor where materials take shape. 
Your day-to-day:

  • Safely operate non-CDL yard trucks or hostlers to move trailers, transfer trailers, and containers within the transfer station yard
  • Spot and stage equipment at designated loading, unloading, and parking locations
  • Perform pre- and post-use inspections of yard vehicles and report any mechanical or safety issues
  • Follow established yard traffic patterns, safety rules, and environmental procedures
  • Communicate clearly with scale house personnel, equipment operators, supervisors, and drivers to coordinate yard movements
  • Secure trailers and containers using wheel chocks or other required safety devices
  • Maintain a clean, orderly, and efficient yard
  • Immediately report safety hazards, spills, damage, or near-miss incidents
  • Comply with all company policies, OSHA standards, and site-specific safety requirements
  • Assist with other yard or operational duties as assigned
Your strengths as a Shunter Driver

You are a natural fit for this role if:

  • Valid driver’s license (non-CDL)
  • Ability to safely operate yard vehicles and equipment after training
  • Prior experience in a yard, transfer station, waste, recycling, or industrial environment preferred
  • Strong focus on safety and situational awareness
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions


If you bring the same care to who you are as to what you do, we’d love to meet you!

Apply now and join our team as Shunter Driver in Rochester.

Cascades values diversity and inclusion and considers all applications equitably. This posting is for an active vacancy within our organization.

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