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Yard Jocky Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NCW

Yard Jocky

Riverview, MI

$25/hr

Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Yard Jockey to support day-to-day yard and warehouse operations. In this role, you will be responsible for safely moving loaded and empty trailers to ...

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$17

$23

How much do yard jocky jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 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.
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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

NCW

Riverview, MI

$25/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Yard Jockey to support day-to-day yard and warehouse operations. In this role, you will be responsible for safely moving loaded and empty trailers to and from dock doors and designated yard areas using a powered industrial truck. You will also assist in the warehouse as needed to ensure accurate, damage-free inbound and outbound shipments.
This position requires a valid CDL and sit-down gas-powered forklift experience.

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate a powered industrial truck to move loaded and empty trailers to and from dock doors and designated yard areas.
  • Driving will be on company property only. No driving on main roads.
  • Operate a sit-down gas-powered forklift to move material within the warehouse facility safely efficiently.
  • Conduct routine inspections and basic maintenance on equipment, reporting any defects or mechanical issues
  • Maintaining accurate records of trailer locations, inventory, and movement schedules.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while following OSHA regulations, PPE requirements, and company policies.
Qualifications & Skills
  • Must have 2 years of spotter, yard jockey, or similar experience; CDL required.
  • Sit-down gas-powered forklift experience
  • Experience operating all forklifts preferred
  • Yard Jockey must have the ability to sit on a powered industrial truck for extended periods.
  • Follow instructions and keep complete and legible records.
  • A high degree of attention is required to prevent injury to others.
  • Ability to judge distances and heights. Have a good sense of balance.
  • Ability to lift and maneuver 50 lbs. if necessary.
  • Ability to work in varying temperatures, depending on the season.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish preferred
Employment Type & Compensation
  • Full-Time | Temp-to-Hire
  • Compensation: $25.00 per hour
  • Application Period: This position will remain open until filled
Available Shifts
  • 1st Shift, 2nd Shift
Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Personal Advancement
Employer Information
This position is being recruited by NCW on behalf of a client company. All hiring decisions will be made by the employer. NCW partners with organizations nationwide to connect top talent with opportunities across construction, manufacturing, warehousing & distribution, and engineering industries.
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to protected status in accordance with applicable laws.

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About NCW

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 2000 with a mission to do things differently, NCW is a team of staffing and professional recruitment specialists that deliver innovative solutions to hiring challenges. Here, our focus is on the people behind every role. We form long-standing partnerships with our clients and with the top talent in the market. We go beyond job requirements and resumes to learn the “whys” and the motivations of the companies and talent we serve. Committed to service excellence, our professional recruiters and temporary staffing specialists deliver an unmatched experience and unsurpassed results with every search. Matching the right person to the role requires an exceptional understanding of the market. The recruiters of NCW bring decades of staffing and recruiting expertise to the table. We understand the challenges employers face, and we know what talented people want from their next opportunities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

2000

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