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Yard Jockey/Hostler Jobs in Texas

Find non-CDL yard jockey/hostler positions across Texas. No commercial driver's license required for most openings.

Average Pay (TX)

$38,000 - $60,000

Entry Barrier

Moderate

Home Time

Home daily

Yard Jockey/Hostler Opportunities in Texas

Texas offers a strong job market for yard jockey/hostler positions thanks to its oil & gas (permian basin, eagle ford, gulf coast), cross-border trade (mexico, multiple ports of entry), agriculture (cattle, cotton, grain) industries. Texas is the largest trucking market in the United States. The state's massive geographic size, oil and gas industry, cross-border trade with Mexico, and diverse economy create more trucking jobs than any other state. The Texas Triangle (Houston-Dallas-San Antonio) generates enormous freight volume.

Major cities like Houston, Dallas, San Antonio have significant logistics operations that employ yard jockey/hostler professionals. The state's key freight corridors (I-35 (Dallas to San Antonio to Laredo)) support a robust transportation network that creates steady demand for non-CDL roles.

Key Industries in Texas

Oil & gas (Permian Basin, Eagle Ford, Gulf Coast)
Cross-border trade (Mexico, multiple ports of entry)
Agriculture (cattle, cotton, grain)
Petrochemical refining (Houston Ship Channel)
Technology & e-commerce (Austin, Dallas)

Top Cities for Yard Jockey/Hostler Jobs in Texas

Houston

TX

Dallas

TX

San Antonio

TX

Austin

TX

Fort Worth

TX

El Paso

TX

Requirements in Texas

Texas DPS issues CDLs. The state is a major CDL training market with numerous ELDT schools. Cross-border trucking through Laredo (busiest U.S.-Mexico crossing), El Paso, and other ports of entry requires proper documentation. Texas has no state income tax.

General Yard Jockey/Hostler Requirements

  • Ability to back trailers into tight dock doors accurately and efficiently
  • Comfort operating in congested yard environments with forklifts, pedestrians, and other vehicles
  • Basic vehicle inspection knowledge (pre-trip and post-trip on yard trucks)
  • Willingness to work all shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Experience with yard management systems (YMS) and trailer tracking technology

More Trucking Jobs in Texas

Looking for CDL positions in Texas? Check our comprehensive state guide with salary data, top employers, and CDL requirements.

Texas Trucking Jobs Guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do yard jockey/hostlers make in Texas?

Yard Jockey/Hostler pay in Texas ranges from $38,000 - $60,000 annually, depending on the employer, metro area, and experience level. Urban areas like major cities tend to pay at the higher end due to increased cost of living and higher demand.

Do I need a CDL to work as a yard jockey/hostler in Texas?

Most yard jockey/hostler positions in Texas do not require a CDL. A valid state driver's license and clean driving record are the primary requirements. Some positions involving larger vehicles may require a DOT medical card.

What are the best cities for yard jockey/hostler jobs in Texas?

The largest metro areas in Texas typically have the highest concentration of yard jockey/hostler jobs due to more distribution centers, logistics hubs, and consumer demand. Check with local staffing agencies and job boards for current openings.