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Yard Trailer Switcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Federal Express Corporation

PH - Switcher FT

Fargo, ND

$20.50 - $22.50/hr

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 ...

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Yard Trailer Switcher information

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$15

$19

$24

How much do yard trailer switcher jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 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 are some common challenges faced by Yard Trailer Switchers, and how can they be effectively 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day often include specialized roles such as experienced contractors, high-level consultants, or certain executive positions. In the context of yard trailer switchers or similar roles, high daily earnings are uncommon unless combined with overtime, bonuses, or specialized skills in logistics, transportation, or management. Typically, such high daily pay requires significant experience, certifications, or working in high-demand industries.

What are Yard Trailer Switchers?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Yard Trailer Switcher, and why are they important?

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.

Do yard jockeys make good money?

Yard jockeys, also known as yard switchers or trailer switchers, typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $15 to $25, depending on experience and location. They often work in warehouse or distribution center environments, using equipment like forklifts or yard trucks, and may receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

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.

What is a yard switcher job?

A yard switcher is a transportation worker responsible for moving and organizing trailers within a freight yard or terminal. They operate yard trucks or shunters to connect trailers to trucks for delivery or storage, often working in shifts and requiring safety training and licensing. The role involves precise maneuvering in a busy environment and coordinating with other logistics staff.

Do you need a CDL to be a yard switcher?

Yard trailer switchers typically do not require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) as they usually operate within a yard or terminal environment using lighter vehicles. However, some employers may prefer or require a CDL if the job involves operating larger or specialized equipment. It's important to check specific job requirements for the position you're interested in.
More about Yard Trailer Switcher jobs
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What states have the most Yard Trailer Switcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Yard Trailer Switcher jobs include:
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Yard Trailer Switcher jobs near you

PH - Switcher FT

Federal Express Corporation

Orlando, FL

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

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:

Additional Details:


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)

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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