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Yard Switcher Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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. • ...

PRIMARY PURPOSE As a switcher, it will be your responsibility to safely move trailers as needed for ... the yard Maintain running list of all common carrier trailers moved into doors during shifts ...

Yard Jockey

Chester, VA · On-site

$24 - $25/hr

About US 1 Shorthaul's Yard Jockey (Switcher) Position: PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: * Correctly move trailers in and out of dock with yard goats * Accurately perform yard audits at end of shift

Yard Jockey

Chester, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

About US 1 Shorthaul's Yard Jockey (Switcher) Position: PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: * Correctly move trailers in and out of dock with yard goats * Accurately perform yard audits at end of shift

Drive trucks around the yard to switch empty and full containers to and from shipping areas and trailer parking areas. * Move trailers safely and efficiently to support shipping, receiving ...

Drive trucks around the yard to switch empty and full containers to and from shipping areas and trailer parking areas. * Move trailers safely and efficiently to support shipping, receiving ...

Drive trucks around the yard to switch empty and full containers to and from shipping areas and trailer parking areas. * Move trailers safely and efficiently to support shipping, receiving ...

The Yard Operator has a variety of duties and a broad skill set that makes this position an ... For Operations that have rail; shift full and empty cars, operate locomotive, activate switches ...

The Yard Operator has a variety of duties and a broad skill set that makes this position an ... For Operations that have rail; shift full and empty cars, operate locomotive, activate switches ...

The Yard Operator has a variety of duties and a broad skill set that makes this position an ... For Operations that have rail; shift full and empty cars, operate locomotive, activate switches ...

Yard Driver

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Yard Driver The Yard Driver is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trailers, containers, and equipment throughout the facility yard to support production and shipping operations. This ...

Yard Driver

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Yard Driver Location: Chesapeake Department: Non-Ferrous Reports To: NF Supervisor and/or NF Manager Position Summary The Yard Driver is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trailers ...

Yard Driver

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Yard Driver Location: Chesapeake Department: Non-Ferrous Reports To: NF Supervisor and/or NF Manager Position Summary The Yard Driver is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trailers ...

Yard Jockey

Barhamsville, VA

$18 - $23.25/hr

JC Pallet is looking for a yard jockey at the Bladenboro, NC facility. If these core values interest you: Customer Service Above all Else, Share the Success, Absolute Integrity and We Are Family ...

Yard Jockey

Barhamsville, VA · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

JC Pallet is looking for a yard jockey at the Bladenboro, NC facility. If these core values interest you: Customer Service Above all Else, Share the Success, Absolute Integrity and We Are Family ...

Showing results 21-40

Yard Switcher information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$19

$24

How much do yard switcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard switcher in Virginia is $19.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $20.96 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Yard Switcher jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Yard Switcher job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Yard Switcher job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,537 per year, or $19 per hour.

PH - Switcher PT

FedEx

Christiansburg, VA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 8 days ago


FedEx rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 1,110 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 64 rated delivery companies


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.
• Peforms other duties as assigned
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.
• Ability to understand and follow instruction regarding work duties and safety methods.
• Ability to discern numbers and information in order to sort packages correctly.
• Ability to use basic tools and equipment such as skate wheel rollers, dock carts, hand-held scanners, chutes and unloading devices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work well in a fast-paced team environment.
Job Conditions
• May work in hot and cold temperatures
• May work in an environment with fumes
• May work in an area with loud noise
Preferred Qualifications:
Pay Transparency:
Pay: 21.25
Additional Details: The desired location for this position would be Christiansburg, VA. Employees will be required to work at the FedEx location five days a week.
Pay Transparency:
The compensation listed reflects the pay range or rate of pay reasonably expected for this posted position at the posted location or locations. If this opportunity includes multiple job levels, the pay information represents the ranges for each level in that job family. Actual pay is determined by several job-related factors permitted by law and relevant to the position, including, but not limited to, experience relative to the job, tenure, market level, pay at the location for this job, performance, schedule, and work assignment. In California, the compensation listed reflects the range or rate of pay reasonably expected for this posted position upon hire. In New Jersey, any compensable Security and Walk time will be paid to non-exempt/hourly employees at the state minimum wage.
For details on our comprehensive benefits, click here
Federal Express Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer including, Vets/Disability.
Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application process. Applicants who require reasonable accommodations in the application or hiring process should contact recruitmentsupport@fedex.com.
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:
  • Know Your Rights
  • Pay Transparency
  • Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  • Employee Polygraph Protection Act

E-Verify Program Participant: Federal Express Corporation participates in the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' E-Verify program (For U.S. applicants and employees only). Please click below to learn more about the E-Verify program:
  • E-Verify Notice (bilingual)
  • Right to Work Notice (English) / (Spanish)

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About FedEx

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

On our first day of operations, we delivered 186 packages. Now, we deliver millions every day, all over the globe. Collaboration and innovation fueled our growth. Dedication to an outstanding customer experience drives us to where now meets next

Industry

Couriers and messengers services, trucking, printing and printing services and retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Memphis, TN, US