Yard Hostler

Blackrock Logistics, Inc.; Palmdale (CA); Hybrid; USD 34,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Blackrock Logistics, Inc. is seeking a Yard Hostler (2nd shift) to safely move trailers and containers within our yard and dock areas in Palmdale, CA. You will operate a yard hostler, couple/uncouple trailers, and document movements to support efficient loading and unloading.

The role requires a California CDL or license, 1 year of yard equipment experience, and endurance for a 12-hour shift on rotating days. Competitive hourly pay is offered with a focus on safety and accuracy.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• California driver’s license with clean record.
• Minimum 1 year operating a yard hostler/spotter or similar equipment.
• Ability to safely connect/disconnect trailers and operate yard equipment.
• Proficiency with handheld scanners or yard management software.
• Able to work outdoors in varying weather and on a rotating schedule.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate a yard hostler/spotter truck to move trailers and containers between dock doors, staging areas, and yard parking spots.
• Connect and disconnect trailers, including air lines and landing gear.
• Spot trailers promptly to support loading/unloading schedules.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections and report issues.
• Record trailer movements using yard management systems or devices.
• Coordinate with dock staff and dispatch to prioritize trailer moves.
• Follow safety protocols, Cal/OSHA and DOT regulations.

Skills

Yard hostler operation

Truck/spotter operation

Cal/OSHA compliance

Safety-focused

Scanner proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

YMS/WMS software

Handheld scanners

Forklift familiarity

Job description

(2nd shift 5:00PM- 5:00AM Sunday - Tuesday and every other Wednesday)

(2nd shift 5:00PM- 5:00AM Thursday- Saturday and every other Wednesday)

(2nd shift 3:00PM- 3:00AM Thursday- Saturday and every other Wednesday)

Class C- $25.00

Class A- $28.00

Position Summary: The Yard Hostler is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of trailers and containers throughout the yard at Blackrock Logistics. Operating a yard hostler (spotter) truck, the Yard Hostler positions trailers at loading docks, staging areas, and designated parking spots to support timely loading and unloading. This role is critical to keeping yard traffic flowing, minimizing dock delays, and maintaining the overall efficiency and safety of the company's warehouse and distribution operations.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Safely operate a yard hostler (spotter) truck to move trailers and containers between dock doors, staging areas, and yard parking spots
• Connect and disconnect trailers, including air lines, electrical lines, and landing gear
• Spot trailers at assigned dock doors promptly to support loading and unloading schedules
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the yard truck and report any mechanical issues
• Inspect trailers and document seal numbers, damage, and overall condition
• Accurately record trailer movements using the yard management system or handheld device
• Coordinate with dock supervisors, warehouse staff, and dispatch to prioritize trailer moves
• Follow all safety protocols, Cal/OSHA and DOT regulations, and company policies
• Keep the yard organized, orderly, and free of hazards
• Perform other yard and warehouse duties as assigned

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Valid California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating a yard hostler/spotter truck or comparable heavy equipment
• Ability to safely connect and disconnect trailers and operate yard equipment
• Basic proficiency with handheld scanners and/or yard management software
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on a flexible or rotating schedule
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks throughout the shift
• Strong commitment to safety and adherence to Cal/OSHA and DOT standards

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
• Prior experience in a high-volume distribution, warehouse, or logistics yard
• Familiarity with yard management systems (YMS) and warehouse management systems (WMS)
• Current forklift certification
• Bilingual (English/Spanish)
• Working knowledge of Cal/OSHA and DOT safety regulations

Physical Demands:

• Prolonged standing (warehouse/onsite support)
• Walking for extended periods across facilities or yards
• Lifting up to 50 lbs
• Bending, stooping, kneeling, or crouching
• Reaching above/below shoulder level
• Repetitive hand/wrist movements (typing, scanning, equipment use)
• Operating equipment (forklift, pallet jack, etc.)
• Climbing stairs or ladders

Work Environment:

• Outdoor work (yards, loading areas, client sites)
• Exposure to varying temperatures (heat/cold)
• Exposure to moderate/high noise levels
• Fast-paced, high-volume operational environment

Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to building a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We make all employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to any status protected by applicable law. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. The statements should not be construed as an exhausted list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. There may be additional duties outside the normal responsibilities to be performed as needed.