Yard Truck Driver

Yard Hostler Driver

Yard Hostler Driver

Locations & Schedules:

• Moreno Valley, CA
  • Monday Thursday, 3:00 PM 1:00 AM
  • Friday - Sunday, 3:00 PM 1:00 AM
• Prince George, VA
  • Monday Thursday, 7:00 AM 5:00 PM
  • Monday - Thursday, 6:00 PM 4:00 AM
  • Friday Sunday, 8:00 PM 6:00 AM
  • Friday Sunday, 6:00 PM 4:00 AM

The Yard Hostler Driver is responsible for safely and efficiently moving semi-trailers, shipping containers, and straight trucks around a warehouse, distribution center, or rail yard. This role is crucial to maintaining a smooth workflow, spotting trailers into active loading dock doors, staging areas, and parking stalls without driving on public highways.

Key Responsibilities

• Shunting Trailers: Drive specialized terminal tractors to maneuver 53-foot trailers between parking stalls, staging zones, and active loading docks.
• Hydraulic Control: Use in-cab hydraulic lifts to raise and lower trailer legs, moving equipment safely without the need to manually crank landing gear.
• Yard Management: Verify trailer numbers for accuracy and log every trailer movement using onboard digital systems, inventory tracking tools, or dockyard management systems.
• Safety & Inspection: Perform thorough pre-trip and post-trip equipment inspections on yard tractors and trailers. Chock trailer wheels, manage dock locks, and report any damage or maintenance needs to supervisors.
• Coordination & Communication: Communicate effectively with warehouse, dock, and logistics staff via two-way radio or phone to ensure trailers are placed correctly for loading and unloading schedules.
• General Maintenance: Keep the yard clean, organized, and safe. Use assigned fuel stations to fuel vehicles as needed and accurately fill out driver vehicle inspection reports and logs accurately.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Driver's License: Must have a clean driving record and be able to pass an MVR background screening.
• Experience:
  • Must have previous experience as a Yard Hostler/Yard Goat, operating yard equipment or tractor-trailers, a minimum of 2+ years of experience is highly preferred.
  • Experience repositioning, driving, and hauling international and/or domestic containers is required.
• Spatial Skills: Exceptional mirror-backing and maneuvering skills in tight, congested, and busy industrial spaces.
• Knowledge of Regulations: Working knowledge of DOT regulations governing safe driving, hours of service, inspection, maintenance, and vehicle safety control systems.
• Basic Skills: Ability to read, write, and perform basic mathematical calculations to handle receipts, maintain logs, and use handheld minicomputers/tablets.

Physical Requirements

• Physical Stamina: Comfort working outdoors in all weather conditions and frequently climbing in and out of the tractor cab.
• Lifting: Ability to safely lift and transport items, sometimes up to 50 pounds.
• Medical Standards: Must meet the medical standards of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) DOT Department of Transportation, which includes passing a drug and alcohol test.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Cargomatic is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.