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Yard Hostler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Yard Hostler Reporting to the Operations Supervisor, the Yard Hostler is responsible for ensuring that trailers are moved within our yard in a safe and efficient manner by utilizing a Terminal ...

Yard Hostler is also responsible for yard management, good housekeeping, and ensuring that yard rules/standards are being adhered to. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Ensure effective and safe use of all ...

Yard Hostler

Lemont, IL

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Frozen Food Express is looking for a Yard Hostler in our Lemont, IL location. Available Shifts eligible for additional $1.00 in hourly rate on weekend and night shifts. Frozen Food Express is hiring ...

Yard Hostler

Tolland, CT

$18.75 - $23.25/hr

Frozen Food Express is looking for a Yard Hostler in our Lancaster, TX location, to handle transfer switches from yard to dock and back in our fast-paced environment. Our strategic vision at Frozen ...

Yard Hostler

Tolland, CT · On-site

$18.75 - $23.25/hr

Frozen Food Express is looking for a Yard Hostler in our Lancaster, TX location, to handle transfer switches from yard to dock and back in our fast-paced environment. Our strategic vision at Frozen ...

Yard Hostler and are able to perform coverage in this position as needed. Education and Experience * High School Diploma or equivalent * Excellent troubleshooting skills * Solid mechanical skills

Yard Hostler

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$23/hr

Yard Hostler * Pay Rate: $23.00 - $23.00 * Work Hours: Day Shift, Part Time, Weekend Work * Location: Charlotte, NC * Job Perks: Home Daily, No freight handling Date Posted: Jul. 21, 2026 Centerline ...

Yard Hostler

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$23/hr

Yard Hostler * Pay Rate: $23.00 - $23.00 * Work Hours: Day Shift, Part Time, Weekend Work * Location: Charlotte, NC * Job Perks: Home Daily, No freight handling Date Posted: Jul. 21, 2026 Centerline ...

Yard Hostler

Lemont, IL · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Frozen Food Express is looking for a Yard Hostler in our Lemont, IL location. Available Shifts eligible for additional $1.00 in hourly rate on weekend and night shifts. Frozen Food Express is hiring ...

Yard Hostler

Tolland, CT

$18.75 - $23.25/hr

Frozen Food Express is looking for a Yard Hostler in our Lancaster, TX location, to handle transfer switches from yard to dock and back in our fast-paced environment. Our strategic vision at Frozen ...

Class A Yard Hostler Industry: Transportation Job Type: Yard Hostler Pay Rate: $25.00 - $25.00 Work Hours: Full Time, Night Shift Location: Desoto, TX Job Perks: Home Daily, No Freight Handling ...

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Yard Hostler information

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$29

How much do yard hostler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard hostler in the United States is $22.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a yard hostler?

Yard Hostlers, also known as yard jockeys or terminal tractor drivers, are responsible for moving trailers and containers around freight yards, warehouses, or shipping terminals. They operate specialized vehicles to position trailers for loading and unloading, organize equipment in the yard, and ensure the efficient flow of goods. Yard Hostlers play a crucial role in logistics operations by maintaining yard organization and supporting the timely movement of freight.

What does a yard hostler do?

As a yard hostler, you move trailers and shipping containers around a construction yard. Your responsibilities include transporting empty and full trailers and containers in and out of dock doors. You drive inside and outside of truck yards, operate heavy machinery and vehicles, and keep trucks and trailers clean and operational. You use pallet jacks, forklifts, and other equipment to move and store goods and drive yard tractors to move trailers. Pre- and post-trip inspections are part of your daily duties, and you work both indoors and outside. You may also wash and maintain equipment in the truck yard.

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

To thrive as a Yard Hostler, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), strong spatial awareness, and experience operating trucks, trailers, and related equipment. Familiarity with yard management systems, trailer tracking technology, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for efficiently coordinating with warehouse teams and truck drivers. These abilities ensure safe, timely, and organized movement of trailers within busy distribution yards, directly impacting logistics efficiency.

What are some common challenges yard hostlers face during their shifts, and how can they be addressed?

Yard Hostlers often operate in busy, fast-paced environments where quick decision-making and attention to safety are crucial. They may encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces, coordinating with multiple drivers and warehouse staff, and adapting to changing schedules or priorities. Effective communication, strong spatial awareness, and a solid understanding of yard protocols help address these issues. Many employers provide regular training and safety briefings to ensure Yard Hostlers can manage these challenges efficiently and maintain a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Yard Hostler vs Locomotive Engineer?

AspectYard HostlerLocomotive Engineer
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL often preferredCommercial driver's license (CDL), certification
Work EnvironmentRail yards, switching areasOn locomotives, rail lines
Industry UsageRailroad yards, freight terminalsRailroads, freight and passenger trains
Job FocusMoving railcars within yardsOperating trains over routes

Yard Hostlers primarily move railcars within rail yards, requiring a CDL and working in switching areas. Locomotive Engineers operate trains over long distances, often with more extensive certifications. While both roles involve train movement, Yard Hostlers focus on yard operations, whereas Locomotive Engineers handle mainline train operations.

What cities are hiring for Yard Hostler jobs?

Cities with the most Yard Hostler job openings:

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

The most popular types of Yard Hostler jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Yard Hostler jobs?

The top employers for Yard Hostler jobs are:

What states have the most Yard Hostler jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Yard Hostler jobs?

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Infographic showing various Yard Hostler job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $47,640 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

WAREHOUSE SPECIALIST (YARD HOSTLER)

JW LOGISTICS OPERATIONS LLC

Phoenix, AZ

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Yard Hostler is responsible for safely moving trailers, containers, and equipment within the yard to support efficient dock operations. This role ensures trailers are positioned correctly for loading and unloading while maintaining yard organization, safety, and productivity.

  • Safely operate a yard truck/hostler to move trailers within the yard
  • Spot trailers at designated dock doors for loading and unloading
  • Move empty and loaded trailers to appropriate yard locations
  • Perform pre-trip inspections of yard equipment and report issues
  • Communicate with dock staff and supervisors regarding trailer movement priorities
  • Ensure trailer numbers, seal numbers, and locations are accurate
  • Maintain yard organization and traffic flow
  • Follow all safety procedures, DOT guidelines (as applicable), and company policies
  • Assist with general yard or warehouse duties as needed
  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • DOT certification
  • Valid driver’s license required (CDL not required unless specified)
  • Experience operating yard hostlers or similar equipment preferred
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
  • Strong safety awareness and attention to detail