Yard/gate Operator
4 days ago
Seattle
Job Description Job Title: Yard and Gate Operator Job Description The Yard and Gate Operator coordinates the flow of truck chassis and trailers in a busy yard environment, ensuring safe and efficient check-in, inspection, and movement of equipment. This role uses a straightforward gate application on an iPad to document trailer condition, upload photos and SKUs, and direct units to the appropriate area, including damaged equipment zones. The position is primarily outdoors, involves frequent forklift operation, and requires strong communication, basic mechanical awareness, and the ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced logistics setting. Responsibilities • Check in trailers and chassis throughout the day and ensure they are directed to the correct area of the yard, including designated sections for damaged equipment., • Use a gate application on an iPad to upload photos, SKUs, and other required information, allowing the system to populate repair and parts details., • Perform ingate and outgate moves using the gate app, following established yard and safety procedures., • Conduct ingate inspections to identify visible damages and basic repair needs, using foundational mechanical knowledge to recognize issues., • Drive and operate a large sit-down forklift, including a 36-ton unit, to move trailers and equipment safely within the yard and into repair bays as needed., • Drive heavy lift equipment and yard tractors as required to support repair shop and yard operations., • Support structural repair activities by assisting with tasks that may involve welding and torch use once training is provided., • Assist with FMCSA and BIT safety inspections after training, following regulatory and company standards., • Communicate frequently and clearly with yard team members, mechanics, outside vendors, and drivers to coordinate movements and minimize yard congestion., • Maintain organization in a busy yard environment, keeping trucks off the street to avoid traffic backups and ensuring smooth equipment flow., • Engage directly with customers and vendors in a professional and friendly manner, representing the yard with a positive attitude and strong customer service skills., • Problem-solve independently when issues arise, while proactively asking questions and seeking clarification when needed., • Participate in monthly safety meetings, contribute ideas, and follow safety protocols to maintain a secure work environment., • Use basic computer skills to operate the gate app and other systems related to yard and repair operations., • Work collaboratively with a small team, supporting colleagues and contributing to a family-style, team-oriented culture. Essential Skills • Ability to perform effectively under pressure in a fast-paced yard environment with frequent truck traffic., • Strong communication skills for coordinating with yard staff, mechanics, vendors, and drivers during busy periods., • Customer-facing experience and a professional, approachable personality when dealing with outside vendors and clients., • Organizational skills to manage equipment flow and keep trucks off the street to prevent traffic congestion., • Comfort operating large sit-down forklifts, including a 36-ton unit, and not being afraid to work on a large forklift., • Basic mechanical knowledge sufficient to identify obvious issues or damages when trailers and chassis arrive., • Basic computer skills to use an iPad-based gate app for uploading photos, SKUs, and inspection details., • Problem-solving ability to address yard and equipment issues independently while maintaining safety and efficiency., • Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including rain or shine, and in a dirty, heavy-equipment environment., • Readiness to ask questions and seek guidance when unsure, demonstrating initiative and a learning mindset. Additional Skills & Qualifications • Willingness to learn and perform structural repairs that require welding and torch use, with training provided., • Ability to support FMCSA and BIT safety inspections after receiving training., • Experience driving heavy lift equipment and yard tractors is beneficial., • Experience in a small-shop or logistics environment is advantageous., • Ownership of basic tools such as sockets, wrenches, impact guns, and similar equipment., • Interest in participating in additional training programs developed in partnership with machinist-focused institutes. Why Work Here? Employees join a collaborative, team-oriented environment where everyone contributes, from yard staff to regional leadership. The culture emphasizes mutual support, open communication, and a family feel within a small team setting. The organization offers full benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as a 401(k) plan, annual merit increases, and regular performance reviews. There are opportunities for growth and skill development, including training in welding and participation in specialized programs with external training institutes. Monthly safety meetings give every team member a voice, reinforcing a culture of safety, respect, and continuous improvement. Work Environment The role is based in an outdoor yard and small shop environment where work continues rain or shine. The setting includes large, heavy-duty forklifts and yard tractors, and can be dirty due to the nature of equipment and repairs. Trailers move into indoor bays for repairs, but most yard and forklift operations occur outdoors. The facility offers a comfortable break room, locker rooms, and computer rooms, providing space for rest and administrative tasks. The location operates in alignment with logistics and cargo flow, with peak activity typically in the summer months. Monthly safety meetings involve all staff, fostering a culture where every person has a voice in safety and operational improvements. Employees are expected to bring and use basic tools such as sockets, wrenches, and impact guns as part of their daily work. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $30.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Seattle,WA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jul 30, 2026. About Aerotek Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools. Company DescriptionWe know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.