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Terminal Tractor Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

FullSteam

Yardgoat Drivers

Wasco, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Operate a yard goat/terminal tractor to move trailers throughout the facility yard. * Safely ... Valid driver's license required. * Ability to work in an outdoor yard environment and varying ...

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Drive specialized terminal tractors to maneuver 53-foot trailers between parking stalls, staging ... Driver's License: Must have a clean driving record and be able to pass an MVR background screening.

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Drive specialized terminal tractors to maneuver 53-foot trailers between parking stalls, staging ... Driver's License: Must have a clean driving record and be able to pass an MVR background screening.

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Drive specialized terminal tractors to maneuver 53-foot trailers between parking stalls, staging ... Driver's License: Must have a clean driving record and be able to pass an MVR background screening.

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Drive specialized terminal tractors to maneuver 53-foot trailers between parking stalls, staging ... Driver's License: Must have a clean driving record and be able to pass an MVR background screening.

Cargomatic

Yard Hostler Driver

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Drive specialized terminal tractors to maneuver 53-foot trailers between parking stalls, staging ... Driver's License: Must have a clean driving record and be able to pass an MVR background screening.

Western Express, Inc.

Tractor Technician

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

All outside terminals, located all over the country, have a small town, tight knit family ... Valid driver's license (CDL license is a plus) * Strong communication and listening skills * Basic ...

Western Express

Tractor Technician

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$30/hr

All outside terminals, located all over the country, have a small town, tight knit family ... Valid driver's license (CDL license is a plus) * Strong communication and listening skills * Basic ...

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Terminal Tractor Driver information

What does a terminal tractor driver do?

A Terminal Tractor Driver operates specialized vehicles, often called yard trucks or spotter trucks, to move trailers within a freight yard, warehouse, or shipping terminal. Their main role is to efficiently position trailers for loading and unloading, ensuring smooth workflow and timely transportation. They typically do not drive on public roads but instead work within the confines of logistics facilities. Safety, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are important for this job. Terminal Tractor Drivers play a critical role in keeping supply chains running efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a terminal tractor driver?

To thrive as a Terminal Tractor Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), knowledge of safe vehicle operation, and experience handling heavy equipment. Familiarity with terminal management systems, yard tracking software, and standard safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure efficient cargo movement, safety, and smooth coordination within busy terminal environments.

What are some common challenges terminal tractor drivers face during their shifts, and how can they be managed?

Terminal Tractor Drivers often work in fast-paced environments where efficiency and safety are critical. Common challenges include navigating crowded yards, adapting to changing weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple teams such as warehouse staff and forklift operators. To manage these challenges, it's important to stay alert, communicate clearly with dispatchers and co-workers, and follow all safety protocols. Being proactive and adaptable helps ensure smooth operations and reduces the risk of accidents or delays.

What is the difference between Terminal Tractor Driver vs Yard Jockey?

AspectTerminal Tractor DriverYard Jockey
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often requiredCDL may be preferred but not always mandatory
Work EnvironmentPort terminals, warehouses, distribution centersPort yards, shipping docks, freight yards
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, freight transportationShipping, freight handling, port operations
Job FocusTransporting containers within terminal areasMoving trailers and containers within yards

Both Terminal Tractor Drivers and Yard Jockeys operate vehicles within freight yards and ports, often requiring similar credentials and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in terminology and specific job functions, with Terminal Tractor Drivers typically focusing on container transport within terminals, while Yard Jockeys primarily move trailers within yards. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers find the right position in the logistics industry.

Infographic showing various Terminal Tractor Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Yardgoat Drivers

Wasco, CA • On-site

FullSteam
See more jobs at FullSteamexternal

$20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate a yard goat/terminal tractor to move trailers throughout the facility yard.

  • Safely position trailers at designated docks and staging areas, and move trailers in and out of loading and unloading areas as directed.

  • Perform yard checks, conduct basic pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the yard goat, and report equipment issues, safety hazards, or trailer damage promptly.

Job description

Yard Goat Drivers – Pistachio Season


Location: Wasco, CA

Pay Rate: $20.00/hour

Shifts: 1st & 2nd Shift

Seasonal Position

Benefits: Medical, Dental, AD&D


Position Summary

We are currently hiring Yard Goat Drivers to support our pistachio season operations in Wasco, CA. The Yard Goat Driver will be responsible for safely moving trailers and containers throughout the facility and yard, ensuring trailers are positioned correctly for loading, unloading, and production operations.


Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Operate a yard goat/terminal tractor to move trailers throughout the facility yard.
  • Safely position trailers at designated docks and staging areas.
  • Move trailers in and out of loading and unloading areas as directed.
  • Perform yard checks and maintain awareness of trailer locations.
  • Communicate effectively with warehouse, production, and shipping/receiving teams.
  • Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
  • Conduct basic pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the yard goat.
  • Report equipment issues, safety hazards, or trailer damage promptly.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management.


Qualifications
  • Previous yard goat, hostler, yard driver, or similar experience preferred.
  • Ability to safely operate a yard tractor in a busy warehouse/production environment.
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • Ability to work in an outdoor yard environment and varying temperatures.
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and extended hours as needed during peak season.
  • Strong attention to safety and detail.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality are essential.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.


Schedule
  • 1st Shift
  • 2nd Shift
  • Seasonal schedule may require overtime, weekends, and extended hours based on production needs.


Benefits
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • AD&D


Why Join Us?

Join our team for the 2026 Pistachio Season and become an important part of our seasonal operations. We are looking for dependable, safety-minded individuals who are ready to work in a fast-paced agricultural production environment.


Apply today to be considered for the Yard Goat Driver position in Wasco, CA!


Full Steam Staffing will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Full Steam Staffing is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing’s Fair Chance Act webpage.