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If you’ve Googled “Yard Jockey job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over—short bullet points, bland corporate phrasing, and zero insight into what actually makes a great yard jockey.
The problem? A generic job post might get you applicants, but it won’t get you the right applicants. You’ll end up sifting through piles of resumes from people who don’t understand the demands of the role—or worse, aren’t committed to doing it well.
In this guide, we’re going to do things differently. You’ll learn:
- What a Yard Jockey actually does (in plain English)
- How to write a post that speaks to the best candidates—experienced or entry-level
- What a great yard jockey job description looks like (with examples you can copy and adapt)
- How to avoid the “boring job post” trap most employers fall into
If you haven’t already, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . It explains why most job ads fail to convert high-quality applicants and gives you a proven framework you can apply to any role—including this one.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
What a Yard Jockey Actually Does - Their Roles
A Yard Jockey—sometimes called a Yard Driver or Switcher—is the person who keeps the flow of trailers in a distribution yard, warehouse, or loading dock running smoothly. Instead of hauling freight long distances, they specialize in moving trailers short distances within the yard: backing them into loading bays, repositioning them for maintenance, and organizing them for outbound trips.
But here’s the part most job descriptions miss: a great yard jockey isn’t just a driver—they’re a traffic coordinator, a time-saver, and a problem-solver. They keep the loading schedule on track, ensure safety rules are followed, and communicate with warehouse teams to make sure the right trailer is in the right spot at the right time.
That’s why this role demands more than just driving skills. Precision backing, calm under pressure, and a knack for spotting potential issues before they cause delays are just as important as operating the yard truck itself.
Two Great Yard Jockey Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Yard Jockey
📌 Job Title: Yard Jockey / Yard Driver — Keep Our Dallas DC on Schedule
📍 Location: Dallas, TX | 💼 Type: Full-Time | 💲 Pay: $24–$28/hr (DOE)
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM (occasional Sat OT)
🎥 A quick hello from our Operations Manager (2 min): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
About Us — Lone Star Logistics (Dallas Regional DC)
Lone Star Logistics moves retail freight across TX/OK from our 420,000-sq-ft Dallas distribution center. We run a high-tempo, safety-first yard that turns 250–300 trailers daily. Our dock teams and drivers count on precise yard moves to hit outbound windows without fail.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Operate yard tractor (Ottawa/TICO) to move and spot trailers across docks and drop lots
- Perform precision backing and tight-space maneuvers to assigned doors
- Coordinate moves with dock leads and dispatch via radio/tablet
- Complete pre/post-trip inspections; report defects immediately
- Uphold yard safety rules (chocks, lockout/tagout, speed limits)
What We’re Looking For
- Must-have: CDL-A or CDL-B and 1+ year yard jockey/switcher experience
- Comfort with high-volume yards and time-sensitive windows
- Clear radio etiquette; collaborative with dock supervisors
- Safety-first mindset and strong situational awareness
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision (company contribution)
- 401(k) with 4% company match
- 80 hours PTO in year one + 7 paid holidays
- $150 boot stipend + PPE provided + uniform laundering
- Monthly safety bonus + employee referral bonus
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You love crisp, accurate backing and organized yards
- You like predictable daytime hours with optional OT
- You take pride in keeping freight flowing and schedules tight
- You want a stable, growing logistics employer
Our Hiring Process
We review every application and reply within 10 business days. Shortlisted candidates complete a 10-minute WorkScreen.io skills check, then a yard drive evaluation.
📥 How to Apply
Apply here: [Insert WorkScreen link]
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level Yard Jockey (Willing to Train)
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Yard Jockey — We’ll Train You to Run the Indy Yard
📍 Location: Indianapolis, IN | 💼 Type: Full-Time | 💲 Pay: $18–$21/hr (DOE)
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
🎥 Meet your Yard Lead (90 sec): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
About Us — Heartland Fulfillment (Indianapolis Campus)
Heartland Fulfillment supports e-commerce brands with same-day outbound from our 300,000-sq-ft Indy campus. Our yard team is small, tight-knit, and big on coaching—because great jockeys are built with reps, not buzzwords.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Learn to operate a yard tractor safely (training + shadowing provided)
- Practice backing drills, cone courses, and door approaches
- Coordinate moves with dock and shipping via radio/tablet
- Perform basic equipment checks and keep the yard orderly
- Follow safety protocols (speed limits, chocks, clear aisles)
What We’re Looking For
- Valid driver’s license and clean MVR
- Reliable, coachable, and attentive to detail
- Able to work outdoors in varying weather
- Interest in pursuing a CDL (company support available)
Perks & Benefits
- Paid on-the-job training + structured playbook
- Medical, dental, vision + EAP
- 72 hours PTO in year one + 6 paid holidays
- CDL tuition reimbursement up to $3,000 after 6 months
- Attendance bonus + boot stipend + PPE provided
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’re hands-on and enjoy mastering practical skills
- You like clear routines and visible results each shift
- You want a pathway to CDL and higher earnings
- You value a team that teaches and promotes from within
Our Hiring Process
We respond to all applicants within 10 business days. Candidates complete a short WorkScreen.io skills/aptitude check, followed by an on-site ride-along.
📥 How to Apply
Apply here: [Insert WorkScreen link]
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Breakdown of Why These Yard Jockey Job Descriptions Work
- Clear, Specific Titles
- Instead of the vague “Yard Driver” or “Switcher,” the titles include location, company identity, and sometimes the schedule focus.
- Example: “Yard Jockey / Yard Driver — Keep Our Dallas DC on Schedule” immediately signals place, pace, and mission.
- This cuts irrelevant applications because it attracts candidates who actually want this type of yard work.
- Instead of the vague “Yard Driver” or “Switcher,” the titles include location, company identity, and sometimes the schedule focus.
- Video Element for Connection
- Adding a short Loom/YouTube video before “About Us” humanizes the employer.
- Seeing the Operations Manager or Yard Lead speak to the camera builds trust and lets candidates “meet” their potential boss before applying.
- Adding a short Loom/YouTube video before “About Us” humanizes the employer.
- Warm, Context-Rich “About Us” Sections
- These aren’t copy-paste corporate blurbs—they tell a quick story about the facility’s size, output, and style of operation.
- Candidates get an instant sense of scale (number of trailers moved daily) and work culture (tight-knit, safety-first, high-tempo, or coaching-focused).
- These aren’t copy-paste corporate blurbs—they tell a quick story about the facility’s size, output, and style of operation.
- Why the Role Matters
- Each post connects the day-to-day tasks to a bigger operational outcome—keeping freight flowing, meeting delivery windows, supporting customers.
- This makes the work feel purposeful rather than repetitive.
- Each post connects the day-to-day tasks to a bigger operational outcome—keeping freight flowing, meeting delivery windows, supporting customers.
- Responsibilities That Read Like Reality
- Duties are described in the language of the yard: precision backing, door approaches, cone courses, yard safety protocols.
- This signals authenticity and makes the post resonate with people who have—or want—real yard experience.
- Duties are described in the language of the yard: precision backing, door approaches, cone courses, yard safety protocols.
- Qualifications That Guide, Not Gatekeep
- Experienced version has firm CDL and experience requirements.
- Entry-level version focuses on reliability, coachability, and willingness to learn—opening the door for motivated applicants without a CDL.
- Experienced version has firm CDL and experience requirements.
- Perks & Benefits Are Separate from “Why This Role Is a Great Fit”
- Perks are tangible (pay, PTO, insurance, bonuses).
- “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” is motivational, showing the type of person who will thrive here.
- Separating them keeps the post clean and easy to scan.
- Perks are tangible (pay, PTO, insurance, bonuses).
- Respectful Hiring Process
- Both posts promise a review of every application and a clear response timeline.
- Using WorkScreen.io for skills checks signals a fair, performance-based approach—especially appealing to candidates who want to be judged on ability.
- Both posts promise a review of every application and a clear response timeline.
- Strong, Friendly CTA
- Instead of “Apply here” alone, the call to action invites and reassures (“Apply here: [Insert WorkScreen link]”).
- It feels like the start of a conversation, not just a transaction.
- Instead of “Apply here” alone, the call to action invites and reassures (“Apply here: [Insert WorkScreen link]”).
Example of a Bad Yard Jockey Job Description (And Why It Fails)
📌 Job Title: Yard Driver
📍 Location: Dallas, TX | 💼 Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are hiring a yard driver to move trailers. The successful candidate will ensure all trailers are moved to the correct location.
Key Responsibilities
- Move trailers in the yard
- Back trailers into loading docks
- Follow safety procedures
Requirements
- CDL preferred
- 1 year experience preferred
- Reliable and able to follow instructions
How to Apply
Send resume to hr@company.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
- Generic Job Title
- “Yard Driver” is too vague. It says nothing about the company, pace, or scope of the role.
- It fails to differentiate the job from hundreds of similar listings.
- “Yard Driver” is too vague. It says nothing about the company, pace, or scope of the role.
- Bland, Uninspiring Summary
- The intro is lifeless—no mission, no context, no reason to care.
- Candidates can’t see the bigger purpose of the work.
- The intro is lifeless—no mission, no context, no reason to care.
- Responsibilities Are Bare Minimum
- The tasks are too broad and feel copy-pasted.
- There’s no detail about equipment, daily volume, or yard conditions.
- The tasks are too broad and feel copy-pasted.
- Unclear and Unmotivating Requirements
- “Preferred” for both CDL and experience doesn’t give clarity on what’s truly needed.
- No mention of soft skills, safety mindset, or communication abilities.
- “Preferred” for both CDL and experience doesn’t give clarity on what’s truly needed.
- No Perks or Benefits
- There’s no incentive for a candidate to choose this company over another.
- Omission of pay and benefits feels outdated and reduces trust.
- There’s no incentive for a candidate to choose this company over another.
- Cold Hiring Process
- “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is impersonal and discouraging.
- There’s no timeframe or transparency about next steps.
- “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is impersonal and discouraging.
- Zero Personality in CTA
- A plain email drop with no warmth or encouragement makes the role feel like a formality, not an opportunity.
- A plain email drop with no warmth or encouragement makes the role feel like a formality, not an opportunity.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Yard Jockey Job Post Stand Out
Most yard jockey job descriptions you’ll find online stop at listing duties and requirements. But the best employers know the details make the difference. Here are some extras that not only help your post attract better candidates, but also build trust from the very first interaction.
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Show candidates you take their information seriously. It reduces hesitation to apply.
Example:
“We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.”
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Work-life balance is a big draw, especially for physically demanding roles.
Example:
“Enjoy up to 80 hours of PTO in your first year, plus 7 paid holidays, so you have time to recharge.”
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Even experienced candidates value the chance to grow.
Example:
“We offer paid CDL tuition reimbursement after 6 months, giving you a clear path to higher earnings.”
4. Add a Loom or YouTube Video
A 60–90 second video from the yard lead or operations manager creates instant human connection and sets your post apart.
Example placement: Just before the “About Us” section so candidates meet their future leader early on.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Showcase Real Employee Feedback
If you have positive comments from current yard staff, add them.
Example:
“I’ve worked yards for 12 years, and this is the most organized, respectful team I’ve ever been on. Management actually listens.” – Mike, Yard Jockey
These touches take just minutes to add but can dramatically improve both the quality and commitment of the candidates you attract.
Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone to Write a Yard Jockey Job Description
Lately, it feels like every HR blog and ATS platform is pushing “one-click” AI-generated job descriptions. Tools like Manatal and Workable even let you press a button and get a post instantly. Sounds tempting, right?
The problem? AI without direction produces generic, lifeless content—the kind that blends in with every other job listing and fails to connect with the people you actually want to hire.
Why Blind AI Use Hurts Your Hiring
- Generic Wording → “Moves trailers around the yard” could be anywhere, for any company. There’s no company culture, no specifics, no reason to apply here instead of somewhere else.
- Attracts the Wrong Applicants → If your post reads like every other one, you’ll get a flood of unqualified or low-effort candidates.
- Damages Your Brand → A yard jockey job post is a first impression. Bland language says “We’re just like everyone else.” That’s not the message you want to send.
The Right Way to Use AI
AI can be a great assistant—but only if you give it the right raw ingredients:
- Company specifics (yard size, daily trailer volume, shift schedules, pay range)
- Culture (fast-paced and precise, safety-first, training-focused, etc.)
- Role impact (how the jockey keeps operations on schedule)
- Benefits (PTO, insurance, CDL training reimbursement)
- Hiring process (clear timelines, skills checks, respectful communication)
Example Prompt for AI (Yard Jockey Post)
“Write a culture-first job description for our Dallas, TX yard jockey role at Lone Star Logistics. We run a 420,000-sq-ft distribution center with 250–300 trailer moves per day. The role requires CDL-A, 1+ year yard driving experience, and a safety-first mindset. Pay is $24–$28/hr DOE with health/dental/vision, PTO, boot stipend, and monthly safety bonus. Include an ‘About Us’ section that reflects our fast-paced but respectful work culture, a ‘Why This Role Matters’ section, and a ‘Perks & Benefits’ list. Keep it warm and human, and add a quick 2-minute video intro from our Operations Manager before the ‘About Us’ section. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]”
With this kind of detail, AI becomes a polishing tool—not a crutch—and the result sounds like you, not like every other job post online.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Yard Jockey Job Description?
We get it—sometimes you just need something fast.
Maybe you’ve already read this guide and understand what makes a strong job post. You just want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor to your company in minutes.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational / Culture-First Template (Experienced Yard Jockey)
Job Title: Yard Jockey — Keep Our Yard on Schedule at [Company Name] 💼 Location: [City, State] 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time] 💰 Salary Range: [$X–$Y]/hour
🎥 Meet Your Future Manager (90 sec): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
About Us
[Company Name] operates a [~square footage] distribution facility in [City/Metro], turning [XX–YY] trailers per day. We’re fast-paced, safety-first, and proud of an organized yard where precise moves keep shipping windows tight and customers happy.
Why This Role Matters
You’re the metronome of the yard. When the right trailer hits the right door at the right time, docks load faster, linehaul leaves on schedule, and orders arrive when they should.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Operate yard tractor (e.g., Ottawa/TICO) to spot and reposition trailers
- Perform precision backing into doors and tight staging areas
- Coordinate moves with dock/dispatch via radio or tablet
- Complete pre/post-trip inspections; report defects immediately
- Follow yard safety rules (speed limits, chocks, lockout/tagout)
What We’re Looking For
- Must-have: [CDL-A/CDL-B] and [1+ years] yard jockey/switcher experience
- Comfortable in high-volume yards and time-sensitive windows
- Clear radio etiquette; team-first communicator
- Safety-first mindset and strong situational awareness
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, vision ([company contribution details])
- [401(k) with X% match]
- [PTO hours] in year one + [#] paid holidays
- [$ boot stipend], PPE provided, [uniform laundering if applicable]
- [Safety bonus/referral bonus details]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You love crisp backing and an orderly yard
- You prefer predictable shifts with optional OT
- You take pride in keeping freight flowing on time
- You want a stable logistics employer with growth paths
Our Hiring Process
We review every application and reply within [#] business days. Shortlisted candidates complete a [~10-minute] WorkScreen.io skills check, then a [yard drive evaluation/on-site ride-along].
📥 Apply Here: [Insert WorkScreen link]
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” (Entry-Level / Willing to Train)
Job Title: Yard Jockey — Entry-Level (We’ll Train) at [Company Name] 💼 Location: [City, State] 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time] 💰 Salary Range: [$X–$Y]/hour
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking an entry-level Yard Jockey for our [City, State] facility. You’ll learn to move trailers safely within the yard to support loading/unloading schedules. Training and coaching provided.
Responsibilities
- Learn to operate a yard tractor safely under supervision
- Practice precision backing and door approaches
- Coordinate moves with shipping and dock teams via radio/tablet
- Perform basic equipment checks and keep yard orderly
- Follow safety protocols (speed limits, chocks, clear aisles)
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license and [clean MVR]
- Reliable, coachable, and attentive to detail
- Able to work outdoors in varying weather
- Interest in pursuing a CDL ([company assistance available])
Perks & Benefits
- Paid on-the-job training + structured playbook
- Health, dental, vision ([plan details])
- [PTO hours] in year one + [#] paid holidays
- [CDL tuition reimbursement up to $X after Y months]
- [Attendance bonus/boot stipend/PPE provided]
Our Hiring Process
We respond to all applicants within [#] business days. Candidates complete a short WorkScreen.io [skills/aptitude] check, followed by an [on-site ride-along/yard tour].
📥 Apply Here: [Insert WorkScreen link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
You’ve just created a job description that’s clear, specific, and designed to attract the right kind of candidates. But writing a great post is only the first step—the real challenge is sorting through applicants to find the ones who can actually do the job.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, you can:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Easily administer one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
Whether you’re hiring one yard jockey or building a full yard team, WorkScreen helps you hire faster, smarter, and with more confidence.
📥 Start your next hire with WorkScreen.io
Frequently Asked Questions - Yard Jockey Job Description
Beyond holding the right license and being able to operate a yard tractor, a strong yard jockey should have:
- Precision backing skills — the ability to maneuver trailers into tight spaces without incident.
- Situational awareness — constantly scanning surroundings to avoid hazards.
- Time management — moving trailers efficiently to keep loading/unloading on schedule.
- Clear communication — using radios/tablets effectively to coordinate with dock and dispatch teams.
- Problem-solving — anticipating bottlenecks or yard conflicts before they happen.
Commitment to safety — following protocols like chocking wheels, speed limits, and lockout/tagout procedures.
In the U.S., yard jockey pay typically ranges from $18 to $28 per hour depending on experience, location, and licensing.
- Entry-level candidates (no CDL, willing to train) often start around $18–$21/hr.
- Experienced CDL holders in busy or high-volume yards can earn $24–$28/hr, with overtime pushing annual earnings higher.
Additional perks—such as safety bonuses, boot stipends, and CDL tuition reimbursement—can further boost total compensation.
A yard jockey moves trailers within a distribution yard or between nearby docks, not on public highways. They operate on short routes entirely within the yard, while truck drivers haul freight over the road to different locations. This means jockeys are home after every shift and usually work predictable hours.
It depends on the employer and state regulations. Many companies require a CDL-A or CDL-B, especially if the jockey will operate on public roads between yards. Some employers offer entry-level roles without a CDL, providing in-house training and financial support to help candidates earn one.
