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Switcher Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Federal Express Corporation

PH - Switcher PT-2

Trenton, NJ · On-site

$22.05 - $23.05/hr

Essential Function Performs trailer switches defined as hooking and moving a parked trailer from the yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard. Communicates ...

Bowhead

Avaya UC Infrastructure Engineer

NJ · On-site

This position serves as a key technical resource responsible for maintaining switching systems and supporting telecommunications operations in accordance with contract requirements. Responsibilities ...

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All JobsSwitcher JobsSwitcher Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Switcher information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$16

$22

$28

How much do switcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for switcher in Philadelphia, PA is $22.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.76 and $22.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a switcher?

A yard switcher, sometimes called a yard jockey, works in the trucking or railway industry. Their primary job duties are to move trailers or rail car beds around the yard, preparing them to load or unload cargo. The yard switcher makes sure that the area remains clear so traffic can pass through easily. A switcher works in the freight yard rather than as a truck driver or train operator, although they should be familiar with driving a tractor-trailer semi, locomotives, or other specialized equipment.

What does a switcher do?

Switchers, also known as production switchers or video switchers, are professionals who operate specialized equipment to select between different video and audio sources during live broadcasts or video productions. Their main responsibility is to ensure smooth transitions between cameras, graphics, and other media elements, helping create a seamless viewing experience. Switchers work closely with directors and technical crews, often in real-time, to execute the visual plan for television, live events, or streaming productions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a switcher?

To thrive as a Switcher, you need a strong understanding of train operations, track switching procedures, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with radio communication systems, signaling devices, and sometimes computerized dispatching tools is typically required. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safe, efficient, and coordinated movement of rail cars within rail yards or industrial sites.

What are some common challenges faced by a switcher in a live broadcast environment?

As a Switcher in a live broadcast setting, one of the main challenges is maintaining focus and quick reflexes during fast-paced productions, as you are responsible for selecting and transitioning between video feeds in real-time. You must communicate clearly with the director and camera operators to ensure seamless transitions and avoid on-air mistakes. Additionally, managing last-minute changes and technical issues under pressure is common, so strong problem-solving skills and adaptability are essential.

What is the difference between Switcher vs Installer?

AspectSwitcherInstaller
CredentialsMay require basic electrical or technical certificationsOften requires specialized certifications or licenses for installation work
Work EnvironmentPrimarily involves switching or configuring existing systemsInvolves setting up, installing, and configuring new systems or equipment
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in electrical, telecommunications, and technology sectorsCommon in construction, electrical, and technical service industries
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare Switcher vs Installer to understand roles in system setup or configuration

The main difference between a Switcher and an Installer lies in their primary responsibilities. Switchers typically focus on configuring or switching existing systems, often requiring basic certifications. Installers, on the other hand, are responsible for setting up and installing new systems, often needing specialized licenses. Both roles are essential in technical and electrical industries, but they differ in scope and certification requirements.

More about Switcher jobs

What are popular job titles related to Switcher jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

For Switcher jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Switcher jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Switcher jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

Switcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switcher job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,813 per year, or $22 per hour.

PH - Switcher PT

Federal Express Corporation

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$22.25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Responsible for the movement of trailers to and from the unload / load doors and throughout the yard. May also be responsible for the physical loading, unloading and/or sorting of packages by hand, including lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying and placing, in a safe and efficient manner.

Essential Function
Performs trailer switches defined as hooking and moving a parked trailer from the yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard.
Communicates with management and/or central control to coordinate trailer movements in the yard.
Documents trailer moves using the Yard Management System (where available) or switcher cards.
Performs pre- and post-trip inspections on switcher equipment.
Understands and demonstrates effective yard switching safety processes and procedures. In addition to the above essential functions, Switchers may also be required to perform Package Handler essential functions as follows:
Utilizes "hand-to-surface" methods for all package handling.
Loads and unloads packages onto or from delivery vehicles, trailers, conveyor system carts and load gratings.
Lifts, carries, pushes and pulls packages on a continuous and repetitive basis for approximate shifts of two to four hours.
Determines the appropriate conveyor system by scanning packages, reading labels and charts, verifying numbers and memorizing information and sorts packages accordingly.
Peforms other duties as assigned


Minimum Education
None required

Minimum Experience
No experience required; six (6) months of experience as a package handler or switching/CDL operator experience preferred.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities
Must have a valid driver's license and maintain a Department of Transportation (DOT) file.
Ability to understand and follow instruction regarding work duties and safety methods.
Ability to discern numbers and information in order to sort packages correctly.
Ability to use basic tools and equipment such as skate wheel rollers, dock carts, hand-held scanners, chutes and unloading devices.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work well in a fast-paced team environment.

Job Conditions
May work in hot and cold temperatures
May work in an environment with fumes
May work in an area with loud noise


Preferred Qualifications:

Pay Transparency:

Pay: $22.25

Additional Details: Preload Shift


For details on our comprehensive benefits, click here.


Federal Express Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including, Vets/Disability.

Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application process. Applicants who require reasonable accommodations in the application or hiring process should contact recruitmentsupport@fedex.com.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

  • Know Your Rights
  • Pay Transparency
  • Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  • Employee Polygraph Protection Act

E-Verify Program Participant: Federal Express Corporation participates in the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' E-Verify program (For U.S. applicants and employees only). Please click below to learn more about the E-Verify program:

  • E-Verify Notice (bilingual)
  • Right to Work Notice (English) / (Spanish)

Employment Type: PART_TIME

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