A yard truck switcher should be able to comfortably operate a semi-truck with a trailer, and use a yard tractor to move trailers in and out of docks or around the truck yard. Yard driver must be able to back trailers up to dock doors, often with other trailers on either side of the dock. In addition, yard switcher may be required to use other warehouse equipment, such as pallet jacks, manual jacks and forklifts.

Yard truck switchers often must clean out trailers before or after moving them, either using on-site equipment to wash them inside and out or by sweeping them out with an industrial broom. If the position entails working with refrigerated trailers, yard switcher must know how to monitor and adjust temperature settings for the specific requirements of the individual load. A yard switcher should also know how to perform pre- and post-trip inspections on tractors and trailers.

Yard switcher must repeatedly climb in and out of their tractors to hook, unhook and inspect trailers, so they are often exposed to the weather elements and must be able to endure a good deal of walking, bending and lifting

The Switcher should possess adequate communication skills in order to understand written and spoken instructions, excellent safety awareness and a sufficient level of physical fitness, as the job involves some manual labor.

1. Responsible for vehicle safety and contents
2. Responsible for vehicle maintenance, security and keeping vehicle clean.
3. Ensure that truck has proper and current inspections

Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Must be D.O.T. qualified, knowledgeable and be able to pass physical and substance abuse tests.
• CDL Class A or B preferred, but not required. Valid Driver license required.
• Must possess a good driving record.
• Ability to repeatedly lift up to sixty (60) pounds in order to unload truck at multiple locations.
• One-year verifiable tractor-trailer experience.
• Must have a courteous, professional demeanor.
• Basic reading, writing and arithmetic skills in order to maintain accurate records of deliveries.

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Must meet DOT standards for truck drivers, have clean driving record, and pass company pre-employment substance abuse check.