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Shunter Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cascades

Shunter Driver

Rochester, NY

$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

Qualified Shunter Back to search results Apply now Job Number: 96850-594438 Work type: Casual ... Current C Class Driver's Licence * Valid shunting qualification (mandatory) * A strong 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 ... Dispatch/Driver Check in and Check out * Some SAP Operations (Reprinting Pick Tickets, Creating ...

Glanbia

Warehouse Operator

Clovis, NM

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

RC Shunter * Small forklift operations * Keeps records in accordance with good manufacturing ... Dispatch/Driver Check in and Check out * Some SAP Operations (Reprinting Pick Tickets, Creating ...

Glanbia

Warehouse Operator

Clovis, NM · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

RC Shunter * Small forklift operations * Keeps records in accordance with good manufacturing ... Dispatch/Driver Check in and Check out * Some SAP Operations (Reprinting Pick Tickets, Creating ...

Glanbia

Warehouse Operator

Clovis, NM

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

RC Shunter * Small forklift operations * Keeps records in accordance with good manufacturing ... Dispatch/Driver Check in and Check out * Some SAP Operations (Reprinting Pick Tickets, Creating ...

All JobsShunter Driver Jobs

Shunter Driver information

See salary details

$5

$16

$22

How much do shunter driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for shunter driver 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 is the difference between Shunter Driver vs Forklift Operator?

AspectShunter DriverForklift Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, possibly specific to commercial vehiclesForklift certification/license
Work EnvironmentRail yards, ports, freight terminalsWarehouses, factories, distribution centers
Industry UsageTransport, logistics, freight handlingMaterial handling, storage, shipping

While both roles involve vehicle operation within logistics environments, Shunter Drivers primarily move rail or freight vehicles within yards, requiring a commercial driving license. Forklift Operators operate forklifts to handle goods in warehouses, requiring specific certification. Each role is essential in freight and logistics sectors but differs in vehicle type, environment, and certification requirements.

What is a shunter driver?

A shunter driver is responsible for moving railway carriages or trucks within a rail yard or terminal to organize trains for departure or arrival. They operate specialized shunting locomotives and must follow safety procedures, often requiring relevant certifications and good spatial awareness. The role involves precise maneuvering in confined spaces and coordination with other railway staff.

What is the average salary of a shunter driver?

The average salary of a shunter driver typically ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Shunter drivers often work in rail yards or freight terminals, requiring knowledge of safety protocols and vehicle operation.

How much do shunter drivers get paid?

Shunter drivers typically earn between £20,000 and £30,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Experienced drivers with specialized skills or certifications may earn higher wages, and some roles offer shift premiums or overtime pay.

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

To thrive as a Shunter Driver, you need a valid driving license (often a specialized or HGV license), good knowledge of vehicle maneuvering, and an understanding of site safety procedures. Familiarity with yard management systems, radio communication devices, and vehicle inspection protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help ensure safe and efficient vehicle movements within depots or terminals. These skills and qualifications are essential to prevent accidents, maintain operational flow, and support overall site safety.

What are some common challenges faced by shunter drivers and how can they be addressed?

Shunter drivers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, tight schedules, and the need for precise maneuvering in busy or confined yard environments. Effective communication with yard staff and train controllers is essential to ensure safety and efficiency. Adhering to strict safety protocols and remaining alert to changing operational demands can help mitigate risks. Continuous training and familiarity with the specific yard layout can also greatly improve performance and confidence in the role.

What are shunter drivers?

Shunter drivers are professionals responsible for moving trains or railcars within rail yards, depots, or industrial sites. Their primary job involves safely positioning rolling stock using locomotives or specialized shunting vehicles, ensuring that trains are assembled, disassembled, or loaded efficiently. Shunter drivers must follow strict safety protocols, communicate with other rail staff, and sometimes perform basic inspections of railcars to guarantee operational standards are met. This role is crucial for the smooth functioning of railway operations and logistics.

How do you become a shunter driver?

To become a shunter driver, you typically need a valid driver's license, often a commercial driver's license (CDL), and relevant experience in operating heavy vehicles. Some employers require specific training or certification in vehicle maneuvering and safety procedures, and a good understanding of rail or freight yard operations is beneficial.
More about Shunter Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Shunter Driver jobs? Cities with the most Shunter Driver job openings:
What states have the most Shunter Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Shunter Driver jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Shunter Driver jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Shunter Driver jobs are:
Shunter Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shunter Driver job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,887 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Shunter Driver

Shunter Driver

Cascades

Rochester, NY

$22/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

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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