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Yard Jocky Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Yard Jocky information

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$9

$17

$23

How much do yard jocky jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard jocky 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Yard Jockey, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Yard Jockey, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a solid understanding of trailer maneuvering, and experience with logistics or warehouse operations. Familiarity with yard management systems, two-way radios, and basic truck maintenance tools is often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, timely, and organized movement of trailers within busy yard environments, supporting overall operational efficiency.

What are some common challenges Yard Jockeys face during their shifts, and how can they effectively manage them?

Yard Jockeys often encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces, managing multiple trailer moves under time constraints, and coordinating efficiently with warehouse and transportation teams. Effective communication and staying organized are essential for minimizing delays and ensuring safety. Familiarity with yard layouts and maintaining situational awareness help Yard Jockeys anticipate potential bottlenecks and work smoothly, even during peak hours. Regular training and adherence to safety protocols also play a critical role in overcoming these daily challenges.

What is the difference between Yard Jocky vs Forklift Operator?

AspectYard JockyForklift Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, OSHA safety trainingForklift certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor yard, shipping/receiving areasIndoor warehouse, storage facilities
Employer & IndustryLogistics, transportation, shipping companiesWarehousing, manufacturing, distribution centers

Yard Jockies primarily operate yard tractors to move trailers in outdoor environments, while Forklift Operators handle pallet and cargo movement within warehouses. Both roles require safety training and certifications, but their work settings and equipment differ. Yard Jockies focus on trailer movement in logistics yards, whereas Forklift Operators work mainly inside warehouses managing inventory.

What are Yard Jockeys?

Yard Jockeys, also known as yard drivers, hostlers, or yard switchers, are responsible for moving trailers and containers within a freight yard, warehouse complex, or distribution center. Their primary duty is to efficiently transport trailers between loading docks, parking areas, and storage locations, ensuring the smooth flow of goods. Yard Jockeys typically operate specialized vehicles called yard trucks or terminal tractors, and their work is crucial for maintaining timely loading and unloading processes. They may also perform basic inspections of trailers and communicate with warehouse staff to coordinate trailer movements.
More about Yard Jocky jobs
What job categories do people searching Yard Jocky jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Yard Jocky jobs are:
Yard Jocky jobs near you
Infographic showing various Yard Jocky job openings in the United States as of July 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 $35,821 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Yard Jocky - Class A CDL local driver

RAINIER PURE BEEF COMPANY

Woodland, WA • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

CDL Class A Truck Driver (Local/Home Daily)

Rainier Pure Beef is looking for a dependable, safety-focused CDL Class A Truck Driver to join our transportation team. If you're looking for a stable, local driving position where you'll be home every day and play an important role in keeping a fast-paced food production operation running smoothly, we'd love to hear from you.

This is a home-daily position that offers a variety of work throughout the day. You'll rotate between yard jockey duties, local deliveries of finished beef products, transporting rendering materials and wastewater, and supporting our shipping department when deliveries are complete. No two days are exactly alike, making this an excellent opportunity for drivers who enjoy staying active and being part of a team.

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-5:30 PM (occasional overtime or schedule adjustments may be required based on business needs)

Pay: Competitive hourly wage based on experience.

What You'll Do
  • Safely operate a Class A tractor-trailer in compliance with DOT, FMCSA, company, and customer requirements.
  • Perform local deliveries of finished beef products to customers and warehouses.
  • Transport rendering materials and wastewater to designated off-site facilities.
  • Move trailers throughout the facility as a yard jockey to support production and shipping operations.
  • Inspect equipment before and after each shift and promptly report any maintenance or safety concerns.
  • Ensure all loads are properly secured and transported safely.
  • Complete driver logs, inspection reports, mileage records, and other required documentation accurately.
  • Communicate professionally with dispatch, warehouse personnel, customers, and team members.
  • Assist the Shipping team with loading, unloading, and staging freight during downtime.
  • Coordinate fueling, vehicle servicing, registration renewals, and routine maintenance as directed.
  • Maintain clean trucks and trailers while representing Rainier Pure Beef professionally at all times.
  • Follow all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety requirements.
What We're Looking For
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A).
  • Clean driving record and commitment to safe driving practices.
  • Minimum 2 years of commercial driving experience preferred.
  • Ability to safely back trailers and maneuver in tight spaces.
  • Experience operating tractor-trailers and yard trucks is preferred.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
  • Strong communication, organization, and time management skills.
  • Dependable attendance and a positive, team-oriented attitude.
  • Ability to pass required DOT screenings and maintain DOT qualification standards.
Why Join Rainier Pure Beef?

At Rainier Pure Beef, every employee plays an important role in delivering quality products to our customers. We offer stable employment, competitive pay, and opportunities to grow your career while working alongside a team that values safety, accountability, and respect.

Benefits
  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Home every day
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Company-provided safety equipment
  • Opportunities for training and advancement

If you're a reliable CDL driver who enjoys a mix of driving, equipment operation, and teamwork, we'd love to have you join the Rainier Pure Beef team.

Rainier Pure Beef is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Rainier Pure Beef Company participates in E-Verify.


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