2010 - T-P Day Switch Car / Yard Dog Operator

Job Description

Job DescriptionJob Description: Switch Car / Yard Dog OperatorApply at: www.ucpstaffing.comA Car Switch Operator (also known as a Switchman or Yard Operator) is the conductor of the "ground game" in a rail yard. You are responsible for the safe and efficient movement of railcars, ensuring they are sorted, coupled, and delivered to the correct tracks for outbound trains or customer loading docks.A Yard Dog Operator (also known as a Yard Jockey, Hostler, or Spotter) is the unsung hero of the logistics world. While long-haul truckers handle the highways, the Yard Dog is the master of the "short game," moving trailers within a distribution center or warehouse lot with surgical precision. The primary goal is to keep the loading docks fed and the yard organized so that shipping and receiving never skip a beat.It’s a physical, high-stakes role that requires a "safety-first" mindset and the ability to work in all weather conditions.Must Pass Drug Test and Background Check.Switch Car / Yard Dog Operator Key Responsibilities

• Switching Operations: Manipulate ground switches to divert railcars to different tracks based on switching orders.
• Coupling & Uncoupling: Physically connect and disconnect air hoses and coupling mechanisms between railcars.
• Communication: Coordinate with Locomotive Engineers and Yardmasters via hand signals or two-way radio to guide train movements. Coordinating closely with warehouse supervisors and gatehouse security via two-way radio.
• Inspection: Perform visual safety inspections of railcars, looking for defective couplings, dragging equipment, or brake issues.
• Brake Operation: Apply and release handbrakes on railcars to secure them in place (proper "tie-down" procedures).
• Navigation: Ride the side of moving railcars (clinging to ladders) to "protect the point" during shoving movements.
• Trailer Maneuvering: Moving semi-trailers between staging areas and loading docks using a specialized "spotter truck."
• Coupling and Uncoupling: Frequently connecting and disconnecting air lines and electrical cables.
• Inventory Management: Using yard management software or manual logs to track trailer locations and statuses (loaded vs. empty).
• Safety Inspections: Performing daily pre-trip inspections on the yard tractor and checking trailer seals/locking mechanisms.
• Technical Skill: Mastery of backing trailers into tight spaces and "blind side" backing
• Environment: Mostly outdoors; exposure to extreme weather and loud noises
• Safety Gear: Mandatory use of steel-toed boots, high-visibility vests, and hearing protection
• The Shuffle: You receive a radio call that Dock 12 is finished. You pull the loaded trailer out and drop it in the "ready" line.
• The Swap: You immediately grab an empty trailer from the yard and back it into Dock 12 so the warehouse crew can keep loading.
• The Hook-up: You assist incoming OTR drivers by directing them to the correct drop zone.
• Apply at: www.ucpstaffing.com