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Yard Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Yard Hostler

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is ...

Yard Worker

Victorville, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

Work with Loader Operator to stage vehicles or pull vehicles in yard properly * Walk the yard and place debris in the cars being removed from the yard * Dismantle tires * Maintain a safe and clean ...

Yard Coordinator

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$20 - $23.75/hr

Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a hostler/yard truck, spotter, or commercial vehicle in a warehouse, distribution, or logistics environment. * Ability to safely couple and uncouple ...

Yard Coordinator

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$20 - $23.75/hr

Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a hostler/yard truck, spotter, or commercial vehicle in a warehouse, distribution, or logistics environment. * Ability to safely couple and uncouple ...

Yard Worker

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Work with Loader Operator to stage vehicles or pull vehicles in yard properly * Walk the yard and place debris in the cars being removed from the yard * Dismantle tires * Maintain a safe and clean ...

Yard Worker

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Work with Loader Operator to stage vehicles or pull vehicles in yard properly * Walk the yard and place debris in the cars being removed from the yard * Dismantle tires * Maintain a safe and clean ...

Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a hostler/yard truck, spotter, or commercial vehicle in a warehouse, distribution, or logistics environment. * Ability to safely couple and uncouple ...

Yard Coordinator

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$20 - $23.75/hr

Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a hostler/yard truck, spotter, or commercial vehicle in a warehouse, distribution, or logistics environment. * Ability to safely couple and uncouple ...

Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a hostler/yard truck, spotter, or commercial vehicle in a warehouse, distribution, or logistics environment. * Ability to safely couple and uncouple ...

Yard Specialist

Compton, CA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

The OOG Yard Specialist is responsible for coordinating and managing daily OOG yard operations ... This position works closely with drivers, equipment operators, dispatch, and the OOG Operations ...

Showing results 21-40

Yard Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$24

How much do yard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard operator in California is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a yard operator?

A Yard Operator is responsible for managing the movement, storage, and organization of materials, vehicles, or equipment within a facility's yard or storage area. They typically operate heavy machinery such as forklifts, cranes, or yard trucks to load, unload, and relocate items safely and efficiently. Yard Operators also inspect equipment, maintain inventory records, and ensure compliance with safety protocols. This role is essential in industries like logistics, shipping, construction, and manufacturing, where efficient yard management directly impacts overall operations.

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

To thrive as a Yard Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, strong mechanical aptitude, and experience with material handling or heavy equipment operation. Familiarity with forklifts, cranes, inventory management systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure operational efficiency, workplace safety, and accurate material handling within busy yard environments.

What are some common challenges yard operators face, and how can they be managed?

Yard Operators often work in fast-paced environments where managing multiple tasks—such as coordinating vehicle movements, ensuring safety protocols, and handling weather-related complications—can be challenging. Effective communication with dispatchers, drivers, and warehouse staff is essential for smooth operations. Staying organized, maintaining attention to detail, and adhering strictly to safety guidelines help manage these challenges and contribute to an efficient yard operation.

What is the difference between Yard Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectYard OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and safety certificationsRequires similar certifications, often including specific equipment licenses
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly outdoors in yards, warehouses, or storage facilitiesOperates machinery outdoors or on construction sites
Industry UsageCommon in logistics, shipping, and warehousing industriesCommon in construction, mining, and heavy industry
Job FocusManaging yard activities, organizing shipments, and equipment movementOperating heavy machinery like forklifts, bulldozers, or cranes

While both Yard Operators and Equipment Operators work outdoors and require safety certifications, Yard Operators focus on managing yard activities and logistics, whereas Equipment Operators specialize in operating heavy machinery. The roles often overlap in industries like logistics and construction, but their primary responsibilities differ.

What are popular job titles related to Yard Operator jobs in CA?

For Yard Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Yard Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,118 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Yard Hostler

Blackrock Logistics, Inc.

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description:

 **(2nd Shift 4:00PM- 4:00AM Thursday- Saturday and every other Wednesday)**


Position Summary: The Yard Hostler is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trailers and containers throughout the yard at Blackrock Logistics. Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is critical to keeping yard traffic flowing, minimizing dock delays, and maintaining the overall efficiency and safety of the company's warehouse and distribution operations. 

Key Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Safely operate a yard hostler (spotter) truck to move trailers and containers between dock doors, staging areas, and yard parking spots 
  • Connect and disconnect trailers, including air lines, electrical lines, and landing gear 
  • Spot trailers at assigned dock doors promptly to support loading and unloading schedules 
  • Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the yard truck and report any mechanical issues 
  • Inspect trailers and document seal numbers, damage, and overall condition 
  • Accurately record trailer movements using the yard management system or handheld device 
  • Coordinate with dock supervisors, warehouse staff, and dispatch to prioritize trailer moves 
  • Follow all safety protocols, Cal/OSHA and DOT regulations, and company policies 
  • Keep the yard organized, orderly, and free of hazards 
  • Perform other yard and warehouse duties as assigned 

Class C- $25.00

Class A- $28.00


Requirements:

 Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent 
  • Valid California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record 
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a yard hostler/spotter truck or comparable heavy equipment 
  • Ability to safely connect and disconnect trailers and operate yard equipment 
  • Basic proficiency with handheld scanners and/or yard management software 
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on a flexible or rotating schedule 
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks throughout the shift 
  • Strong commitment to safety and adherence to Cal/OSHA and DOT standards 

Preferred Skills and Experience: 

  • Valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) 
  • Prior experience in a high-volume distribution, warehouse, or logistics yard 
  • Familiarity with yard management systems (YMS) and warehouse management systems (WMS) 
  • Current forklift certification 
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) 
  • Working knowledge of Cal/OSHA and DOT safety regulations 

Physical & Environmental Requirements: 

Physical Demands: 

  • Prolonged standing (warehouse/onsite support) 
  • Walking for extended periods across facilities or yards 
  • Lifting up to 50 lbs 
  • Bending, stooping, kneeling, or crouching 
  • Reaching above/below shoulder level 
  • Repetitive hand/wrist movements (typing, scanning, equipment use) 
  • Operating equipment (forklift, pallet jack, etc.) 
  • Climbing stairs or ladders 

Work Environment: 

  • Outdoor work (yards, loading areas, client sites) 
  • Exposure to varying temperatures (heat/cold) 
  • Exposure to moderate/high noise levels 
  • Fast-paced, high-volume operational environment 

 Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to building a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We make all employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to any status protected by applicable law. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. The statements should not be construed as an exhausted list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. There may be additional duties outside the normal responsibilities to be performed as needed.