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Yard Switcher Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HD Supply

Yard Switcher

Flower Mound, TX · On-site

Current Class A or B CDL issued by the state in which the candidate resides with a hazardous ... Prior yard jockey experience. Job Summary Operates a switcher truck to move tractor trailers around ...

Diamond Chemical Company LLC

Be Seen First

Yard Switcher

East Rutherford, NJ · On-site

$24/hr

... Yard Switcher for the first and second shift ... Must have a CDL Class A license with Hazmat endorsement. Able to safely drive trailers in tight ...

New

HD Supply

Yard Switcher

Flower Mound, TX

Current Class A or B CDL issued by the state in which the candidate resides with a hazardous ... Prior yard jockey experience. Job Summary Operates a switcher truck to move tractor trailers around ...

Request Foods

Yard Switcher - Contract

Holland, MI

$25/hr

Yard Switcher Operator (Level 5) - 2nd Shift (Temporary Job until August) Hours: 3:00pm - shift end ... Must possess a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) "A", or have the ability to obtain ...

IWS Group

Yard Jockey-Switcher

Edison, NJ

$18.50/hr

Yard Jockey / Switcher Location: Edison Pay: $18.50 Schedule: Full-Time | Monday-Friday 4:00pm-12 ... Valid driver's license required; CDL preferred (or required if applicable). * Experience operating ...

Central Transport

Yard Switcher - Flint, MI

Flint, MI · On-site

Previous yard switcher or CDL driving experience (Class A CDL preferred). * Strong attention to safety and yard organization. * Ability to work in a fast-paced, outdoor environment. * Reliable ...

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Yard Switcher Driver information

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$15

$19

$24

How much do yard switcher driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard switcher driver in the United States is $19.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a yard switcher driver?

Yard Switcher Drivers, also known as yard jockeys or hostlers, are responsible for moving trailers and containers within a freight yard, warehouse facility, or distribution center. They do not drive on public roads but instead use specialized vehicles to position trailers for loading, unloading, or storage. Their main duties include ensuring the efficient flow of trailers, performing safety checks, and sometimes assisting with minor maintenance. Yard Switcher Drivers play a crucial role in keeping logistics operations running smoothly and efficiently.

What are some common challenges yard switcher drivers face during their shifts?

Yard Switcher Drivers often encounter challenges such as maneuvering large trailers in tight spaces, managing time effectively to keep up with fast-paced shipping schedules, and adapting to changing weather conditions that can impact visibility and safety. Communication with warehouse staff and other drivers is critical to avoid delays and ensure accurate trailer placement. Staying organized and alert is essential, as the work environment can be busy with constant movement of equipment and personnel.

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

To thrive as a Yard Switcher Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a good driving record, and knowledge of safe vehicle maneuvering in confined spaces. Familiarity with yard management systems, radio communication devices, and basic vehicle inspection tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently under time pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe movement of trailers and containers within busy yards, minimizing delays and accidents.

What is the difference between Yard Switcher Driver vs Rail Yard Clerk?

AspectYard Switcher DriverRail Yard Clerk
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL often preferredHigh school diploma, clerical skills
Work EnvironmentRail yards, industrial settings, operating vehiclesOffice, administrative areas within rail yards
Job DutiesMoving railcars, switching tracks, operating yard equipmentScheduling, record-keeping, coordinating shipments

The Yard Switcher Driver primarily operates vehicles to move railcars within the yard, focusing on physical tasks and vehicle operation. In contrast, the Rail Yard Clerk handles administrative duties, managing records and coordinating logistics. Both roles are essential in rail yard operations but differ significantly in responsibilities and required skills.

Do you have to have a CDL to drive a yard switcher driver?

Yes, yard switcher drivers typically need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) because they operate heavy equipment and locomotives within rail yards. Some positions may require specific endorsements or certifications depending on the equipment used and company policies.
More about Yard Switcher Driver jobs

What cities are hiring for Yard Switcher Driver jobs?

Cities with the most Yard Switcher Driver job openings:

What states have the most Yard Switcher Driver jobs?

States with the most job openings for Yard Switcher Driver jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Yard Switcher Driver jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Yard Switcher Driver jobs are:

Yard Switcher Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Yard Switcher Driver job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,879 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Yard Switcher

National Retail Systems, Inc.

North Bergen, NJ • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

NRT knows what really matters to truck drivers: better pay, more home time, and new trucks. NRT totaled over 50 million road miles and prayed over 70,000 containers in 2017. We will keep you busy all year.  National Retail Transportation, Inc. is hiring full-time Yard Switchers in North Bergen, NJ. Drivers for the second shift make $23/Hour, and drivers working the third shift make $24/Hour. Up to 20 hours of overtime are available a week. Please contact a recruiter to learn more.
Summary:
  • Yard Switcher/Spotter Driver – North Bergen, NJ.
  • Full Time.
  • Home Daily.
  • $24 an Hour
  • Late Model Trucks.
  • Paid Vacation.
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Flexible Schedules.
  • No-touch freight.
  • Direct deposit available.
  • Full Benefits.

Responsibilities:
  • Safely moving trailers to and from the warehouse dock to yard locations in a timely and professional manner with daily reports.
  • Storing equipment in safe areas.
  • Notifying management of repairs that need to be made.

Requirements:
  • Class A CDL.
  • Safe driving record (MVR, CSA, and previous employment).
  • Ability to pass DOT pre-employment drug screening and meet DOT medical requirements. 
  • Good stable work record.
  • Current DOT physical.
  • At least 1 year of Tractor Trailer experience.

If you have any questions or need assistance, call Kendall anytime at 201-314-2852