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Yard Switcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SpartanNash

Yard Switcher

Norfolk, VA · On-site

For yard driving, determine trailer requirements/types for outbound loads and move trailer to appropriate docks. For local driving, deliver product, assist with unloading, verify accuracy of delivery ...

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Switcher (Yard Dog)

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$20.75/hr

Switcher (Yard Dog) Location: Byron Center, MI Shift: 2nd Shift | Monday-Friday | 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM Pay: $20.75 per hour Job Summary Are you an experienced material handler with yard switching and ...

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How much do yard switcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard switcher 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?

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 Yard Switchers?

Yard switchers, also known as yard jockeys or yard drivers, are workers responsible for moving trailers and containers around a freight yard, warehouse, or distribution center. They use specialized vehicles called yard trucks or terminal tractors to efficiently position trailers for loading, unloading, or storage. Yard switchers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of goods within logistics operations by organizing and managing trailer movements. Their work helps minimize delays and maximize productivity in busy yard environments.

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 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 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.
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Yard Switcher jobs near you
Yard Switcher

Yard Switcher

SpartanNash

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

SpartanNash rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 319 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

426th of 722 rated retailers

Job description

As a member of the C&S Wholesale Grocers family of companies, SpartanNash is a food solutions company that delivers the ingredients for a better life. A distributor, wholesaler and retailer with a global supply chain network, SpartanNash distributes grocery and household goods, including fresh produce and the Our Family portfolio of products, to locations in all 50 states.

Our braggingly happy team members - ranging from bakery managers to order selectors; from IT developers to vice presidents of finance; from HR Business Partners to export specialists - create braggingly happy customers spanning national accounts, independent and chain grocers, e-commerce retailers, U.S. military commissaries and exchanges, and the Company's own brick-and-mortar grocery stores, pharmacies and fuel centers.

Ready to contribute to the success of our food solutions company? Apply now!

Location:

1133 Kingwood Avenue - Norfolk, Virginia 23502

Position Summary:

Schedule for this role: 2:30pm to 11:00pm Sunday to Thursday.

This role is responsible to safely drive commercial truck within the transportation yard for unloading/loading of trailers and to deliver product to local specified customers. For yard driving, determine trailer requirements/types for outbound loads and move trailer to appropriate docks. For local driving, deliver product, assist with unloading, verify accuracy of delivery, complete necessary paperwork and pick up return products for the distribution center. Perform routine vehicle inspection and operate vehicle in a safe and efficient manner, in compliance with DOT regulations.

Here's what you'll do:

  • Responsible to safely drive commercial truck within the transportation yard for unloading/loading of trailers and to deliver products to local specified customers; communicate with supervisors, dispatchers and warehouse personnel as appropriate.

  • Maintain the yard in a neat and orderly manner; ensure the yard fueling station is properly maintained and clean, ensure tractors and trailers are positioned in the correct place, clean tractors and trailers, etc.

  • Conduct yard check of trailers and complete trailer inventory to maintain control (knowledge) of all trailers to include empty available trailers and loaded, outbound trailers ready for dispatch.

  • Operate commercial truck to move and reposition trailers to and from the loading docks.

  • Secure trailer doors (various types) and ensure loads are secure by using appropriate locks and seals.

  • Deliver products to local customers as required, assist to unload truck/trailers at delivery locations, verify correct products are delivered and obtain delivery confirmation and customer signature.

  • Inform appropriate warehouse associate(s) of invoice discrepancies, pick up and return and unload damaged, customer return products.

  • Report any unsafe loading conditions at delivery locations and notify transportation dispatcher/supervisor of any damaged and/or defective equipment.

  • Perform pre-trip inspection on vehicle to ensure all mechanical, safety, and emergency components are in working condition and in accordance to DOT regulations.

  • Maintain a safe work environment and ensure adherence to safety guidelines; follow established safety procedures at all times when driving, moving trailers from dock doors, etc.

  • Responsible to perform post-trip duties, fuel tractor/trailer as necessary; secure tractor/trailer, complete DOT logs and record deliveries/pick ups, provide all paperwork to appropriate warehouse/transportation personnel as required.

  • Perform simple vehicle maintenance (i.e. clean interiors and exteriors, take vehicle for state inspection, filling tires with air, etc.).

  • Report damage and/or repair requirements; coordinate with the dispatcher/supervisor to accomplish routine vehicle maintenance and repairs.

  • Additional responsibilities may be assigned as needed.

Here's what you'll need:

  • High school diploma or GED (preferred)

  • Must have a valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (required)

  • Six Months or at least 50,000 miles of all seasons commercial driving experience (required)

  • Must pass DOT physical examination and DOT pre-employment drug test, subject to periodic random alcohol and drug test.

  • Must be able to work up to 60 hours per week including nights and weekends.

  • Good communication skills: ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

  • Good organizational, prioritization, and attention to detail skills.

  • Good customer service skills.

  • Ability to read maps and route schedules, and operate vehicles in a variety of traffic and weather conditions.

  • Knowledge of federal regulations and DOT guidelines.

  • Must be flexible working in shifts including evenings and weekends.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Must be able to lift and/or move up to 100 pounds frequently during loading and unloading (average case weight of 18.7 pounds, 83% of cases are less than 30 pounds). Must be able to push and pull loaded pallets and carts weighing up to 2,700 pounds. The employee is required to sit up to eleven hours per day and climb in and out of tractor and trailer often. Overnight travel may be required. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is subject to a vehicle environment and is exposed to outside weather conditions frequently, including load/unload in extreme weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment us usually low to moderate, but is occasionally moderate to high.

As part of our People First culture, SpartanNash is proud to offer a robust and competitive Total Rewards benefits package.

SpartanNash is an Equal Opportunity Employer that invests in Associate development, recognizes and celebrates success, fosters two-way communication, and promotes a sense of belonging. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, including those with disabilities and Veterans.

We are not able to sponsor work visas for this position.

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