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Yard Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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: Various locations in San Antonio, TX job summary: CDL-A Drivers moving trailers bay to bay ...

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: Various locations in San Antonio, TX job summary: CDL-A Drivers moving trailers bay to bay ...

Yard Dog (Waste Silage) Driver

Weston, OR · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

The Yard Dog Driver (Waste Ensilage Driver) is responsible for safely and efficiently managing the movement of production waste trailers. This includes removing full trailers, positioning empty ones ...

Yard Dog (Waste Silage) Driver

Weston, OR · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

The Yard Dog Driver (Waste Ensilage Driver) is responsible for safely and efficiently managing the movement of production waste trailers. This includes removing full trailers, positioning empty ones ...

Yard Dog (Waste Silage) Driver

Weston, OR · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

The Yard Dog Driver (Waste Ensilage Driver) is responsible for safely and efficiently managing the movement of production waste trailers. This includes removing full trailers, positioning empty ones ...

Yard Dog (Waste Silage) Driver

Weston, OR · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

The Yard Dog Driver (Waste Ensilage Driver) is responsible for safely and efficiently managing the movement of production waste trailers. This includes removing full trailers, positioning empty ones ...

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Yard Truck Driver

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

At least 2 years of experience driving a terminal truck (yard truck, yard dog, mule) * At least 2 years of experience hauling metal cargo containers * Valid Class A Driver's License * Experience ...

Hostler (Blue Nights)

Columbia, MO · On-site

$20 - $24.75/hr

Inspection of all trailers and yard dog including yard dog vehicle checks. * Maintaining daily trailer inventory, trailer security and material tracking board. * Platteville Barn pick-up (day shift ...

Hostler (Blue Nights)

Columbia, MO · On-site

$20 - $24.75/hr

Judgment / Decision making EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE: • High School Diploma or equivalent. • Previous yard dog experience required. • Must possess a valid driver's license and pass a Department ...

The CDL Yard Dog Driver moves semi-trailers within the UPS World Port facility. This position requires operating a Yard Dog and a 53' trailer in a secure, high-traffic environment that includes other ...

The CDL Yard Dog Driver moves semi-trailers within the UPS World Port facility. This position requires operating a Yard Dog and a 53' trailer in a secure, hightraffic environment that includes other ...

Showing results 21-40

Yard Dog information

See salary details

$9

$17

$23

How much do yard dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard dog in the United States is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a yard dog?

A Yard Dog, also known as a yard jockey or spotter, is responsible for moving semi-trailers within a freight yard, distribution center, or warehouse facility. They ensure trailers are positioned correctly for loading and unloading, help organize the yard for efficiency, and perform basic equipment inspections. This role requires excellent maneuvering skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment to keep logistics operations running smoothly.

What does a yard dog do during a typical workday, and how does the role interact with other team members?

A typical day for a Yard Dog involves safely moving trailers and containers around the yard, coordinating closely with warehouse staff, shipping and receiving teams, and dispatchers to ensure timely load transfers. Yard Dogs must keep track of trailer locations, handle paperwork or logging duties, and perform routine inspections of their equipment. Many works in outdoor, fast-paced environments that require frequent communication and collaboration under tight deadlines. The role is essential in keeping logistics operations running smoothly and often provides valuable experience for those interested in advancing to higher-level positions within transportation or warehouse management.

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

To thrive as a Yard Dog, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), good driving skills, and an understanding of yard safety and trailer handling. Experience with yard management software, yard tractors, and basic maintenance tools is often required. Attention to detail, time management, and clear communication help Yard Dogs stand out in fast-paced logistics environments. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient movement of trailers, minimizing delays, and maintaining a safe, organized yard.

How much do yard dogs make?

Yard dogs typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. They are responsible for moving and organizing freight in warehouses or yards, often requiring physical stamina and basic safety training.
More about Yard Dog jobs

What cities are hiring for Yard Dog jobs?

Cities with the most Yard Dog job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Yard Dog jobs?

The most popular types of Yard Dog jobs are:

What states have the most Yard Dog jobs?

States with the most job openings for Yard Dog jobs include:

Infographic showing various Yard Dog job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,821 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

1st Shift CDL/Yard Dog Operator

Central Garden & Pet

Fort Wayne, IN

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Central Garden & Pet rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Central Garden & Pet

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,935 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Central Garden & Pet

  • 94%

    94% say it is easy to take sick days

    say it is easy to take sick days

  • 94%

    94% say they don’t worry about hours

    say they don’t worry about hours

  • 94%

    94% say they get paid breaks

    say they get paid breaks

Featured by Central Garden & Pet, based on 42 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

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/putaway.
 
Local travel only- Home Weekends. This would be a great opportunity for someone who just obtained their CDL but is not ready to go over the road.
 
Monday-Friday 7:00am-3:30pm PAID WEEKLY!! (OT will be required during peak season)
 
 
The CDL/Yard Dog Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trailers and containers within the yard and between the two (2) locations of the manufacturing plant. This role requires a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and involves operating yard trucks (yard dogs) to position trailers for loading and unloading. The CDL/Yard Dog Operator plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth flow of materials and products, maintaining yard organization, and supporting the overall logistics operations of the plant. Consistent and on-time attendance is vital!!
 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Safely operate yard trucks to move trailers and containers between dock doors, parking areas, and loading/unloading zones within the manufacturing facility’s yards.
  • Assist with the loading and unloading of trailers as needed, ensuring that materials and products are handled safely and efficiently.
  • Perform pre- and post-trip inspections of yard trucks and trailers to ensure they are in safe operating condition. Ensure that all inspection paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time.
  • Report any maintenance issues or safety concerns to the Warehouse Manager or Plant Manager immediately.
  • Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Ensure that all movements within the yard are conducted safely and in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Work closely with warehouse personnel, loaders, and the logistics team to ensure that trailers are moved in a timely manner to meet production and shipping schedules.
  • Other duties as requested, including general housekeeping of warehouse.
 
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Previous experience operating yard trucks or similar equipment in a logistics or manufacturing environment is preferred.
  • Strong understanding of safety protocols and regulations related to yard operations and vehicle operations.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including climbing in and out of trucks, lifting, and standing for extended periods.
  • Effective verbal communication skills for coordinating with team members and reporting to management.
 
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
  • A valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required.
  • Familiarity in a manufacturing environment preferred but not required.
 
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to lift, push, and/or pull up to 50 lbs.
 
BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid parental leave
  • Referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
 
POSITION INFORMATION
  • This position pays $25.00-$27.00 per hour depending on experience
 
Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be required to perform other related duties as requested to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
 
Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT) (NASDAQ: CENTA) is a leading consumer goods company in the pet and garden industries. Guided by the belief that home is central to life, the Company's purpose is to proudly nurture happy and healthy homes. For over 45 years, its innovative and trusted solutions have helped lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a diversified portfolio of market-leading brands including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Best Bully Sticks®, Cadet®, C&S®, Farnam®, Ferry-Morse®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, Pennington®, Sevin® and Zoёcon®. With fiscal 2025 net sales of $3.1 billion, Central has strong manufacturing and logistics capabilities supported by a passionate, entrepreneuri

Working at Central Garden & Pet

Perks for frontline workers

From Central Garden & Pet, via Breakroom

  • Safety is a top priority!

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Sick Time

  • Paid Breaks

  • Consistent shift and schedule

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance

  • 401k with Company Match

  • Referral Program with Cash Bonus

  • Education Assistance

  • Paid Parental Leave

About Central Garden & Pet, in their own words

From Central Garden & Pet

Our leading consumer and professional brands provide forward-thinking, high quality products to care for your lawn, garden, pets and community. We are committed to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier and communities grow stronger.

Company values

From Central Garden & Pet

The Central Way | We Do the Right Thing | We Strive to be the Best | We are Entrepreneurial | We Win Together | We Grow Every Day | We are Passionate

Diversity and inclusion statement

From Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet is committed to building a great place to work that embraces diversity as a key pillar of our culture. This is a journey, and we are committed to listening, learning and doing the work to move forward together.


What Central Garden & Pet employees say

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