Switcher

Position Description:
Yard switcher should be able to comfortably operate a semi truck with a trailer and/or yard tractors/mules, to move trailers in and out of docks or around the truck yard. Yard switchers 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 have to use other warehouse equipment, such as pallet jacks, manual jacks and forklift. Yard switcher should also know how to perform pre- and post-trip inspections on tractors and trailers.

Roles & Responsibilities:
Yard switcher is responsible for the movement and spotting of containers to facilitate the needs of the warehouse in sorting and processing material for shipment or storage. Yard switcher is responsible for timely movements and thorough knowledge of on-hand inventory and positioning.

Responsible to maintain a neat and orderly storage lot oriented toward maximizing efficiency in servicing the facilitys needs.

Operate Yard Horse in a safe manner during numerous roll-on/roll-off procedures daily involving loaded and empty containers.

Drive and operate Yard Horse under 15 mph in and around the yard.

Responsible for accurate, neat and timely accounting for records involving container numbers, gross weights, tare weights, and net weights on the scale log sheet to include source and type of material.

Conduct pre- and post-trip inspection, tractors, and trailers.

Conduct afternoon yard check.

Manipulate tractors.

Assist outside drivers.

Must function and interact on a daily basis with facility personnel and comply with facility safety requirements.

Communicate using cellular telephone or 2-way radio with dispatch, operations, and plant personnel.

Requirements:
Possess a valid drivers license with a clean driving record.

Prior experience operating yard switchers, forklifts, & other similar heavy equipment is preferred. Familiarity with yard operations and logistics processes.

Ability to accurately position trailers and containers within tight spaces and maintain precise alignment. Strong spatial awareness and depth perception are essential.

Effective verbal and written communication skills to interact with team members, truck drivers, and supervisors. Clear communication is crucial for coordinating movements and resolving issues.

Physical fitness and the ability to perform repetitive tasks, such as climbing in and out of yard switcher trucks, operating controls, and walking/standing for extended periods. Some heavy listing may required.

Environmental Requirements:
Yard switcher position may involve working outdoors in various weather conditions, including got, cold, or wet environments.

The yard environment may also be noisy and require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety vests, hard hats, and steel-toed boots.

Attention to safety and the ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment are necessary.

Be cognizant of the reality that the operation is a low mileage severe duty function requiring particular attention to preventative maintenance checks and services as well as actual scheduled vehicle maintenance.

Must be aware that operations occur on asphalt, concrete and gravel surfaces in a hostile environment often contaminated with material subject to embedding in tires.