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Yard Switcher Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

FedEx Group

PH - Switcher FT-2

Etiwanda, CA · On-site

Documents trailer moves using the Yard Management System (where available) or switcher cards ... Performs pre- and post-trip inspections on switcher equipment. * Understands and demonstrates ...

New

FedEx

PH - Switcher PT-1

Downey, CA · On-site

$23/hr

Essential Function • Performs trailer switches defined as hooking and moving a parked trailer ... yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard. • ...

FedEx

PH - Switcher PT-5

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$23.50/hr

Essential Function • Performs trailer switches defined as hooking and moving a parked trailer ... yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard. • ...

FedEx

PH - Switcher PT-5

Arcadia, CA · On-site

$23 - $23.50/hr

Essential Function • Performs trailer switches defined as hooking and moving a parked trailer ... yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard. • ...

FedEx

PH - Switcher FT-2

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

Essential Function • Performs trailer switches defined as hooking and moving a parked trailer ... yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard. • ...

FedEx

PH - Switcher CDL FT

Carson, CA · On-site

$26/hr

... yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard. • ... or switcher cards • Performs pre- and post-trip inspections on switcher equipment. • ...

OnTrac

Warehouse Hostler / Yard Driver

Commerce, CA · On-site

$27/hr

OnTrac is hiring a Warehouse Hostler / Yard Driver ! OnTrac Hostlers are responsible for safely ... Switching trailers as needed during the daily sort; hook up sets of trailers for line hauls leaving ...

OnTrac

Warehouse Hostler / Yard Driver

Commerce, CA · On-site

$27/hr

OnTrac is hiring a Warehouse Hostler / Yard Driver ! OnTrac Hostlers are responsible for safely ... Switching trailers as needed during the daily sort; hook up sets of trailers for line hauls leaving ...

FedEx

PH - Switcher CDL FT

Downey, CA · On-site

$23/hr

Essential Function • Performs trailer switches defined as hooking and moving a parked trailer ... yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard. • ...

FedEx

PH - Switcher CDL FT

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$25 - $25.50/hr

... yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard. • ... or switcher cards • Performs pre- and post-trip inspections on switcher equipment. • ...

FedEx

PH - Switcher CDL FT-1

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$25 - $25.50/hr

... yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard. • ... or switcher cards • Performs pre- and post-trip inspections on switcher equipment. • ...

NATIONAL RETAIL TRANSPORTATION

Switcher

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$1.0K - $1.1K/wk

The Switcher safely moves trailers to and from the warehouse dock to yard locations in a timely manner. What We Offer Our Truck Drivers: * Pay: $27/ per hour * Average Weekly : $1,000 to $1,100 ...

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All JobsYard Switcher JobsYard Switcher Jobs in California

Yard Switcher information

See California salary details

$14

$18

$24

How much do yard switcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard switcher in California is $18.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a yard switcher?

A yard switcher is a tractor-trailer or truck driver who works in the commercial sector. Large companies often employ yard switchers to move trailers or products around the yard or in and out of docks by operating warehouse machinery like forklifts and semi-trucks in tight spaces. Job duties include cleaning and moving trailers, operating under safety procedures, checking vehicle maintenance and service, and possibly recording the weight of containers. Qualifications for this career begin with a high school diploma, but professional truck driving education is required as well as a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Mechanical skills are vital for this job, and prior experience in truck driving is helpful.

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

To thrive as a Yard Switcher, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), good driving skills, and knowledge of yard operations and safety protocols. Familiarity with yard management systems, radio communication equipment, and basic vehicle maintenance tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication are essential soft skills for working efficiently and safely. These skills ensure the smooth, safe, and timely movement of trailers and containers within busy logistics yards.

What are some common challenges faced by yard switchers, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Yard Switchers often encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces, coordinating with multiple team members, and managing time-sensitive movements of trailers or containers. Staying alert to safety protocols and maintaining clear communication with dispatchers and other drivers are essential to overcoming these challenges. Regular equipment checks and ongoing training also help Yard Switchers perform their duties efficiently and safely, contributing to a smooth yard operation.

What is the difference between Yard Switcher vs Forklift Operator?

AspectYard SwitcherForklift Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a valid driver's license and yard-specific trainingRequires forklift certification and safety training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor yards, rail yards, or shipping docksIndoor warehouses or outdoor storage areas
Employer & IndustryLogistics, transportation, shipping companiesWarehousing, manufacturing, distribution centers
Common TasksMoving containers, switching railcars, yard organizationOperating forklifts to move pallets and goods

Yard Switchers primarily focus on yard organization and railcar switching in outdoor environments, often requiring a driver's license. Forklift Operators operate forklifts mainly indoors, handling palletized goods, and need forklift certification. Both roles are essential in logistics and warehousing industries but differ in environment and specific skills.

More about Yard Switcher jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Yard Switcher jobs in California?

The most popular types of Yard Switcher jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Yard Switcher jobs in California?

For Yard Switcher jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Yard Switcher jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Yard Switcher jobs?

Cities in California with the most Yard Switcher job openings:

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

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

Yard Switcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Yard Switcher job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,357 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

PH - Switcher FT-2

FedEx Group

Etiwanda, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Responsible for the movement of trailers to and from the unload / load doors and throughout the yard. May also be responsible for the physical loading, unloading and/or sorting of packages by hand, including lifting, pushing, pulling, carrying and placing, in a safe and efficient manner.

Essential Function
  • Performs trailer switches defined as hooking and moving a parked trailer from the yard to a load/unload door or hooking and moving a trailer from a door to the yard.
  • Communicates with management and/or central control to coordinate trailer movements in the yard.
  • Documents trailer moves using the Yard Management System (where available) or switcher cards.
  • Performs pre- and post-trip inspections on switcher equipment.
  • Understands and demonstrates effective yard switching safety processes and procedures. In addition to the above essential functions, Switchers may also be required to perform Package Handler essential functions as follows:
  • Utilizes “hand-to-surface” methods for all package handling.
  • Loads and unloads packages onto or from delivery vehicles, trailers, conveyor system carts and load gratings.
  • Lifts, carries, pushes and pulls packages on a continuous and repetitive basis for approximate shifts of two to four hours.
  • Determines the appropriate conveyor system by scanning packages, reading labels and charts, verifying numbers and memorizing information and sorts packages accordingly.
  • Performs other duties as assigned
Schedule:

- Day/Sun / Shift TBD.

Minimum Education:
  • None required
Minimum Experience:
  • No experience required; six (6) months of experience as a package handler or switching/CDL operator experience preferred.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and maintain a Department of Transportation (DOT) file.
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