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Yard Switcher Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Bulk Loader (Shipper/Receiver)- 2nd

Detroit, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Operates yard switcher to move box trucks and tank wagons as needed. * Operates production equipment in a manner consistent with training and work instructions to ensure safety and the highest level ...

Yard Worker Yard/Warehouse

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

PURPOSE Under direct supervision performs a variety of yard activities including operating a forklift to move product and material throughout the yard. Provides customer service to customers.

Yard Auditor

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$19 - $24.50/hr

The Yard Auditor role is responsible for supporting finished goods yard and shipping operations through the safe and efficient movement, staging, loading, unloading, and inventory handling of ...

May also be required to move trailers on complex with yard switcher, fuel equipment and wash equipment. Career Framework Job Level: T2 Education: High School Diploma Experience: 1 year driving ...

Production Support Team - Yard

Alpena, MI · On-site

$37 - $48.25/hr

Maintenance of plant roads, sidewalks, rail tracks and switches, emptying of oil drums and ... Responsible for grounds/yard maintenance. * Demonstrates a commitment to communicating, improving ...

Yard Worker

Clinton Township, MI

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

PURPOSE Under direct supervision performs a variety of yard activities including operating a forklift to move product and material throughout the yard. Provides customer service to customers.

Showing results 21-40

Yard Switcher information

See Michigan salary details

$13

$16

$21

How much do yard switcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard switcher in Michigan is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.46 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Yard Switcher jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Yard Switcher job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Yard Switcher job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,758 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Traffic - Switcher 1st shift Penn

corporatehcm

Riverview, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY STATEMENT/POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Switcher is responsible for driving tractor-trailers, moving trailers within the facility grounds, and pulling and dropping trailers at the dock doors. They will also communicate with dispatch to inform them of any movements and perform other job requirements as necessary.

Candidates must have prior experience as a Yard Driver/Switcher, demonstrate teamwork skills, maintain a positive attitude, ensure perfect attendance, and meet the physical demands of the job, including lifting up to 15 pounds, sitting or standing for extended periods, climbing into the truck repeatedly, and tolerating heights. Strong communication skills with co-workers and the ability to follow instructions from supervisors are essential. The role requires ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle.

This is a 1st shift position (7:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday)

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES - Switcher:

  • Move trailers to docks and within the yard as directed.
  • Understand the department’s process flow.
  • Chock the tires of any trailer entered. The driver is responsible for ensuring the trailer’s tires are checked before driving onto the trailer, in accordance with MIOSHA regulations.
  • Operate the hi-lo safely and efficiently, adhering to all safety guidelines and protocols.
  • Load and unload materials and products from trailers and containers.
  • Inspect equipment before use to ensure safe operation.
  • Maintain accurate records of inventory movements and maintain paperwork as required.
  • Assist with training new personnel on safe operating procedures.
  • Communicate effectively with dispatch and other team members.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

SPECIAL SKILLS, EXPERIENCE OR QUALIFICATIONS - Switcher:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid operator’s license for hi-lo.
  • Active/current Driver’s License, preferably CDL.
  • Ability to identify production parts by part number.
  • Understanding of the production flow process.
  • Ability to organize and complete all necessary paperwork in English.

With more than 30 years of expertise, Hollingsworth is a leading provider of third-party logistics services. We pride ourselves in our commitment to the advancement of our workforce and develop and invest in our employees. Benefits include:

  • Weekly pay
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • 401K retirement plan with company match
  • Employee discounts
  • Training and development opportunities

#HLGSWRTH

Equal Employment Opportunity: Hollingsworth provides equal opportunity in employment, maintains a diverse workforce, and prohibits all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions, policies, and practices will comply with applicable federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws and regulations. We intend to maintain a work environment that is free of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation because of age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation (including transgender status, gender identity, or expression), pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions), physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), veteran status, uniformed service member status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. Hollingsworth is dedicated to the fulfillment of this policy regarding employment including but not limited to recruiting, hiring, placement, transfer, training, promotion, rates of pay and other compensation, termination, and all other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.


Substance-Free Employer: 

  • Hollingsworth does not hire employees who smoke or use tobacco products in states where this restriction is permitted.
  • Hollingsworth does not hire individuals who illegal drugs. This includes use of marijuana/cannabis which may be legal locally but is prohibited under US federal law.