Yard Hostler Driver

Job Description

Job Description

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.

• 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.

• 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 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.