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Yard Dog Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

1st Shift CDL/Yard Dog Operator

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description CDL Driver/Yard Dog Operator **This is a physically demanding job involving, not only driving between warehouses but assisting both via forklift and manually in loading/unloading trucks ...

1st Shift CDL/Yard Dog Operator

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description CDL Driver/Yard Dog Operator **This is a physically demanding job involving, not only driving between warehouses but assisting both via forklift and manually in loading/unloading trucks ...

1st Shift CDL/Yard Dog Operator

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description CDL Driver/Yard Dog Operator **This is a physically demanding job involving, not only driving between warehouses but assisting both via forklift and manually in loading/unloading trucks ...

1st Shift CDL/Yard Dog Operator

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description CDL Driver/Yard Dog Operator **This is a physically demanding job involving, not only driving between warehouses but assisting both via forklift and manually in loading/unloading trucks ...

Yard Dog Driver

Woodland, CA · On-site

$17.75/hr

  • Dental

  • Life

Operate Yard Dog (will be operating forklift when not operating Yard Dog). * Before operating the assigned forklift, check oil, radiator water, checking for obvious hydraulic leaks, etc. * Report any ...

Yard Dog Driver

Dallas, TX · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

The Yard Dog Driver works closely with Operations, Transportation, and Yard teams to ensure the ... Previous experience operating a yard truck, tractor-trailer, or other commercial vehicles.

Currently seeking a Yard Dog CDL Driver. The position is on the southside of San Antonio. Schedule ... High School diploma or equivalent, preferred. * 1-3 years of recent experience operating truck ...

Shunt/Yard Dog

San Antonio, TX

$17.75 - $23/hr

Job Title: Shunt/Mule Driver/Yard Dog Schedule: Days and Nights (12-hour schedule) Location ... High School diploma or equivalent, preferred * 1-3 years of recent experience operating truck ...

Shunt/Yard Dog

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Job Title: Shunt/Mule Driver/Yard Dog Schedule: Days and Nights (12-hour schedule) Location ... High School diploma or equivalent, preferred * 1-3 years of recent experience operating truck ...

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Showing results 1-20

Yard Dog Operator information

See salary details

$13

$20

$25

How much do yard dog operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard dog operator in the United States is $20.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Yard Dog Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectYard Dog OperatorForklift Operator
CredentialsTypically requires OSHA safety training, possibly a commercial driver's license (CDL)Requires forklift certification/license
Work EnvironmentOutdoor yard, truck yards, shipping docksIndoor warehouses, loading docks, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageLogistics, shipping, transportationWarehousing, manufacturing, distribution centers
Job RoleMoves trailers and containers within yards, assists with truck positioningOperates forklifts to move goods and materials

Yard Dog Operators primarily handle trailer movement within outdoor yards, often requiring CDL and safety training, while Forklift Operators focus on indoor material handling using forklifts. Both roles are essential in logistics and warehousing, but they differ in environment and specific equipment used.

What are some typical challenges faced by yard dog operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Yard Dog Operators often face challenges such as working in fast-paced environments, maneuvering large trailers in tight spaces, and coordinating with multiple teams to ensure timely trailer movements. Effective communication with warehouse staff and fellow operators is crucial to avoid delays and ensure safety. Staying organized, maintaining situational awareness, and adhering to safety protocols can help manage these challenges and contribute to smooth yard operations.

What is a yard dog operator?

A Yard Dog Operator, also known as a yard jockey or switcher, is responsible for moving trailers and containers within a freight yard, warehouse facility, or distribution center. Their main job is to safely and efficiently transport trailers between loading docks, parking areas, and staging locations using a specialized tractor called a yard truck or yard dog. This role helps ensure smooth operations by positioning trailers for loading or unloading and keeping the yard organized. Yard Dog Operators play a crucial part in the logistics and supply chain process, working closely with warehouse staff and truck drivers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a yard dog operator?

To thrive as a Yard Dog Operator, you need a commercial driver's license (CDL), knowledge of safe trailer handling, and strong spatial awareness. Familiarity with yard management systems, radio communication equipment, and basic maintenance tools is commonly required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for managing tight schedules and coordinating with warehouse staff. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring efficient yard operations, safety, and timely movement of trailers within distribution centers.
More about Yard Dog Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Yard Dog Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,677 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Yard Dog Operator Truck Driver

Trane Technologies plc

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$21.79/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Trane Technologies rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 299 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

117th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

Be a part of our mission! As a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable, and efficient climate solutions for buildings, homes and transportation, it's our responsibility to put the planet first. For us at Trane Technologies, and through our businesses including TraneandThermo King, sustainability is not just how we do business-it is our business. Do you dare to look at the world's challenges and see impactful possibilities? Do you want to contribute to making a better future? If the answer is yes, we invite you to consider joining us in boldly challenging what's possible for a sustainable world.

Learn about our benefits designed for you to Thrive at work and at home.

We boldly go.

Where is the work:

On-Site (5 days)

What's in it for you:

The Yard Dog Operator (Truck Driver) is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trailers within the finished goods yard to support outbound shipping flow, trailer staging, and overall yard organization. This role operates yard tractor equipment to position, relocate, and stage trailers in alignment with shipping priorities and standard work. The Yard Dog Operator helps maintain safe yard traffic flow, equipment readiness, trailer accuracy, and compliance with safety and operational requirements. This position works primarily in an outdoor finished goods yard environment and requires the ability to perform effectively in changing and sometimes extreme weather conditions.

What you will do:

  • Operate yard tractor or other approved yard-moving equipment to move trailers safely and efficiently throughout the finished goods yard.
  • Position, relocate, and stage empty and loaded trailers to support shipping schedules and yard flow requirements.
  • Perform trailer spotting activities in accordance with established standard work, traffic patterns, and operational procedures.
  • Coordinate trailer movements based on daily shipping priorities and direction from yard or logistics leadership.
  • Inspect trailers and yard equipment before and during use to identify visible damage, safety concerns, or operating issues.
  • Report equipment, trailer, or yard safety issues promptly and follow escalation procedures as required.
  • Maintain accurate trailer location awareness and support trailer tracking, logs, boards, or system updates as required.
  • Verify trailer numbers, status, and placement accuracy before and after moves.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, safety rules, yard traffic requirements, and standard work expectations.
  • Support inventory and shipment flow by ensuring trailers are available and staged in the correct locations at the correct time.
  • Assist with yard organization, visual management, and 5S activities to maintain a safe and orderly work environment.
  • Partner effectively with logistics, shipping, transportation, production, quality, and safety personnel.
  • Participate in team meetings, operational updates, and improvement initiatives as needed.
  • Demonstrate positive, professional, and proactive behavior in alignment with company values.
  • Maintain flexibility to work overtime, weekends, or in other departments as business needs require.

What you will bring:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Experience in yard operations, shipping, logistics, distribution, manufacturing, or related operations preferred.
  • Experience operating yard dog, yard tractor, terminal tractor, or similar trailer-moving equipment preferred.
  • CDL required; or ability to obtain.
  • Working knowledge of trailer movement, yard flow, shipping support, and safe equipment operation preferred.
  • Ability to follow standard work, traffic patterns, and operational procedures required.
  • Experience using shipping, trailer tracking, yard management, or reporting systems preferred.
  • Powered industrial vehicle experience or certification preferred, where applicable.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications preferred.

Annual Base Salary Range or Hourly Base Pay Range:

$21.79

Compensation Type:

Hourly

Incentive Eligible:

No

Sales Commission Eligible:

No

Disclaimer: We strive to provide competitive compensation for this position, tailored to a variety of factors. The actual compensation will depend on elements such as seniority, merit, geographic location, education, experience, travel requirements, and union designation. Our compensation range is generally based on the national average for the country. Additionally, benefits may vary depending on the region, business alignment, union involvement, and employee status.

Thrive at work and at home:


  • Benefits kick in on DAY ONE for you and your family, including health insurance and holistic wellness programs that include generous incentives - WE DARE TO CARE!
  • Family building benefits include fertility coverage and adoption/surrogacy assistance.
  • 401K match up to 6%, plus an additional 2% core contribution = up to 8% company contribution.
  • Paid time off includes 15 vacation days, 9 paid holidays, 3 floating holidays, sick leave, and additional options to support volunteer and parental leave.
  • Educational and training opportunities through company programs along with tuition assistance and student debt support.

Disclaimer: Benefit offerings may vary depending on Collective Bargaining Agreements and local/state regulations.


Safety Sensitive Role:

Yes

The company designates certain roles as Safety Sensitive. Safety Sensitive roles may require that you pass additional drug screening.

We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits and programs. We are an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, pregnancy, age, marital status, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any legally protected status.


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About Trane Technologies

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Trane Technologies and through our businesses including Trane® and Thermo King®, we create innovative climate solutions for buildings, homes, and transportation that challenge what's possible for a sustainable world. We're a team that dares to look at the world's challenges and see impactful possibilities. We believe in a better future when we uplift others and enable our people to thrive at work and at home. We boldly go.

Industry

Industrial machinery manufacturing and machinery manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US