Yard Hostler

cargomatic; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Cargomatic is hiring a Yard Hostler Driver in Long Beach, CA. This on-site, temp-to-hire role requires moving semi-trailers, containers, and trucks within a yard or rail facility, with a focus on safe, efficient operations and dock coordination.

Responsibilities include shunting trailers, operating hydraulic lifts, logging movements, and performing safety inspections per DOT standards. A clean driving record and experience with yard equipment are required.

Qualifications

• Must have a clean driving record and pass an MVR background screening.
• Must have 2+ years of Yard Hostler/Yard Goat experience or similar.
• Experience repositioning, driving, and hauling containers.
• Exceptional mirror-backing and maneuvering in tight spaces.
• Knowledge of DOT regulations governing safe driving and inspection procedures.
• Able to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic for logs and receipts.

Responsibilities

• Shunting Trailers: Drive terminal tractors to maneuver 53-foot trailers between stalls, staging zones, and docks.
• Hydraulic Control: Use in-cab lifts to raise/lower trailer legs safely.
• Yard Management: Log trailer movements using onboard systems or dockyard tools.
• Safety & Inspection: Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections and report issues.
• Coordination & Communication: Relay information with warehouse and logistics teams to align loading schedules.
• General Maintenance: Keep yard clean and safe; refuel and complete logs accurately.

Skills

Driver's License

MVR background check

Spatial skills

DOT regulations

Reading & basic math

Job description

Location: Long Beach, CA

Employment Type: Temp to Hire | On-Site (Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM to 3:30 PM) | Experienced

Compensation: $29.00 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications

This is not a remote position. Relocation assistance is not offered.

Cargomatic is committed to making the lives of truckers and shippers easier. Our goal is to let truckers be truckers and shippers be shippers by simplifying the process for all our customers and vendors.

Cargomatic was named to the Built In Best Places to Work list, recognizing our people-first culture, strong benefits, and commitment to employee growth and well-being.

About the Role

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.