ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Yard Trailer Switcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optime Tech

Switcher Coordinator - 2nd Shift

York, SC · On-site

Key Responsibilities Yard & Trailer Management * Safely operate switcher/yard trucks equipped with fifth-wheel coupling systems. * Connect, relocate, stage, and position trailers throughout the ...

Pet Supplies Plus

Trailer/Yard Spotter

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

Safely operate a yard jockey or trailer switcher * Repositioning trailers to and from and between dock doors * Compliance of safety equipment usage and safety policies application * Required ...

Pet Supplies Plus

Trailer/Yard Spotter

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

Safely operate a yard jockey or trailer switcher * Repositioning trailers to and from and between dock doors * Compliance of safety equipment usage and safety policies application * Required ...

Pet Supplies Plus

Trailer/Yard Spotter

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

Safely operate a yard jockey or trailer switcher * Repositioning trailers to and from and between dock doors * Compliance of safety equipment usage and safety policies application * Required ...

Pet Supplies Plus

Trailer/Yard Spotter

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

Safely operate a yard jockey or trailer switcher * Repositioning trailers to and from and between dock doors * Compliance of safety equipment usage and safety policies application * Required ...

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 ... The Yard Jockey is responsible for moving trailers safely throughout the yard, positioning trailers ...

InterAtlas Logistics

Yard Switcher

Newark, NJ

$18 - $25/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE As a Yard Switcher, you will safely and efficiently move trailers within the yard to support warehouse operations. Responsibilities include positioning trailers at dock doors ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConstruction JobsHeavy Equipment JobsYard Driver JobsYard Trailer Switcher Jobs

Yard Trailer Switcher information

See salary details

$15

$19

$24

How much do yard trailer switcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard trailer 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 trailer switcher?

Yard Trailer Switchers, also known as yard jockeys or yard hostlers, are responsible for moving trailers within a freight yard, warehouse facility, or distribution center. Their main job is to shuttle loaded or empty trailers between loading docks, parking areas, and staging zones, ensuring efficient workflow and safe operations. They typically operate specialized trucks called yard tractors or spotter trucks. Yard Trailer Switchers play a key role in logistics by helping keep goods moving smoothly and minimizing delays in shipping and receiving.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a yard trailer switcher?

To thrive as a Yard Trailer Switcher, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (often a CDL Class A or B), strong knowledge of yard safety procedures, and experience operating tractor-trailers and yard trucks. Familiarity with yard management systems, two-way radios, and basic vehicle inspection tools is typically required. Attention to detail, good communication, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment are essential soft skills. These skills ensure efficient trailer movement, minimize safety risks, and maintain smooth logistics operations in busy distribution or warehouse yards.

What are common challenges faced by yard trailer switchers, and how can they be managed?

Yard Trailer Switchers often encounter challenges such as coordinating trailer movements efficiently during peak times, working in varying weather conditions, and communicating with multiple team members to ensure safety and accuracy. Managing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and clear communication with dispatchers, warehouse staff, and drivers. Adhering to strict safety protocols and using yard management systems can help minimize errors and maintain a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Yard Trailer Switcher vs Yard Tractor Operator?

AspectYard Trailer SwitcherYard Tractor Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a valid driver's license and basic forklift or yard equipment trainingRequires a commercial driver's license (CDL) and specialized yard tractor operation training
Work EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor yard areas, moving trailers within a yardOutdoor yard areas, operating yard tractors to move trailers over short distances
Industry UsageCommonly used in freight yards, warehouses, and distribution centersPrimarily used in freight terminals, ports, and large distribution hubs

The Yard Trailer Switcher typically handles trailer movements within a yard using specialized equipment and requires basic licensing. In contrast, the Yard Tractor Operator operates yard tractors with a CDL, focusing on moving trailers over longer distances within the yard. Both roles are essential in freight logistics but differ in credentials and scope of operation.

More about Yard Trailer Switcher jobs

What cities are hiring for Yard Trailer Switcher jobs?

Cities with the most Yard Trailer Switcher job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Yard Trailer Switcher jobs?

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

Yard Trailer Switcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Yard Trailer Switcher job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 33% Full Time, and 66% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,879 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

CDL A Yard Jockey/Switcher - $25.76/HR

Madison, AL • On-site

TransForce Inc.
Trucking • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about TransForce Inc.external

$25.76/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Info

  • Job Location: Madison, Alabama
  • Route Type: Local
  • Type of Assignment: Temp to Hire
  • Transmission Type: Automatic

Job Requirements

  • Experience: 6+ months
  • Handling: No-touch freight

Additional Information

CDL A Yard Jockey/Switcher – $25.76 Per Hour | Madison, Alabama About the Position

Our client is seeking a CDL A Yard Jockey/Switcher to move and stage trailers in a local, on-site yard operation in Madison, Alabama. This is a home-daily opportunity with first- and second-shift availability and the potential for permanent employment.

Pay & Schedule
  • Pay rate: $25.76 per hour
  • Estimated weekly gross pay: $1,030
  • Schedule: 40 hours per week
  • First shift: 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Second shift: 6:30 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
  • Local work with daily home time
  • Employment type: Temp-to-perm
Job Details
  • Route type: Local
  • Work setting: On-site yard operations
  • Freight handling: No-touch
  • Primary function: Yard jockey and trailer switcher
Key Responsibilities
  • Move trailers throughout the yard.
  • Stage trailers for loading and unloading.
  • Support dock operations and maintain an efficient flow of equipment.
  • Follow all applicable safety procedures while operating in the yard.
Minimum Requirements
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License.
  • 2 years of recent, relevant, and verifiable driving experience.
  • Clean Motor Vehicle Record with no major traffic violations or preventable accidents in the last 3 years.
  • Must meet all DOT and FMCSA requirements.
  • Must be at least 21 years old.
Benefits
  • Competitive weekly pay.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Paid time off.
  • 401(k) retirement plan.
  • Referral program.
Why Work With TransForce

At TransForce, drivers come first. We provide consistent support, treat our drivers with respect, and connect them with quality opportunities that align with their goals. Our dedicated team is committed to your success, and safety remains a top priority.

TransForce logo

About TransForce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With the largest active driver community in the nation, TransForce is uniquely positioned to address the truck driver shortage in the United States. It is through this network that we attract and retain professional drivers including recent CDL graduates, U.S. military veterans, and seasoned professional drivers. Opportunity, choice and respect are just a few of the reasons why drivers choose us.

Industry

Trucking

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1991

View All TransForce Jobs

Apply