1st Shift Shuttle Driver

About the role

The 1st Shift Shuttle Driver is a Class A CDL professional responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable movement of trailers and containers between closely located UNIS logistics and distribution sites. Operating primarily within high-volume yards, this role is a critical link in UNIS’s local transportation network, ensuring that trailers are positioned on time and in the correct locations to support loading, unloading, and onward distribution.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate Class A vehicles and yard goats to shuttle trailers between designated UNIS facilities and yard locations within a defined local radius, ensuring on-time movement and adherence to all DOT and company safety policies.
• Conduct thorough pre-trip, in-transit, and post-trip inspections of trucks, trailers, and yard equipment, accurately documenting findings and promptly reporting any defects or maintenance needs in accordance with company procedures and DOT requirements.
• Execute yard spotting and trailer positioning activities in high-volume yards, including backing into docks, staging trailers in assigned lanes, and following yard maps and instructions to optimize flow for loading and unloading operations.
• Maintain clear, timely communication with dispatch, yard supervisors, and warehouse teams regarding trailer status, delays, safety concerns, and any operational issues, using company-approved communication tools and protocols.
• Comply fully with hours-of-service rules, company policies, and site-specific safety procedures (including speed limits, PPE requirements, and traffic patterns), and actively contribute to a culture of safety, quality, and efficiency through responsible behavior and professional conduct.

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years verifiable work experience as a Class A CDL driver, including hands-on exposure to yard and shuttle operations in a logistics, distribution, or similar environment.
• Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a clean and acceptable DOT/safety driving record, demonstrating a consistent history of safe driving and regulatory compliance.
• No history of DUI convictions or major driving violations, and ability to satisfactorily pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening in line with federal and company requirements.
• Willingness to undergo and successfully clear a background check, including employment verification and references, demonstrating reliability and professional integrity.
• Solid working knowledge of DOT regulations governing safe driving, hours of service, vehicle inspection, and basic equipment maintenance, with the ability to apply these regulations in daily operations.
• Availability to work the 1st shift schedule (6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.) on a consistent basis, including potential overtime or schedule adjustments based on business needs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working in high-volume yards with frequent trailer movements, complex yard layouts, and tight dock schedules, demonstrating strong spatial awareness and yard management discipline.
• Documented experience using yard goat equipment (yard truck/terminal tractor) for trailer spotting, repositioning, and dock operations in a logistics or distribution environment.
• Experience working within large or fast-growing logistics companies, with familiarity in coordinating with dispatch, warehouse, and yard teams to support time-sensitive operations.
• History of strong performance in safety-focused roles, such as previous safety awards, clean inspection records, or demonstrated participation in safety committees or initiatives.
• Basic comfort with using handheld devices, electronic logs, or yard management systems to receive assignments, record movements, and maintain accurate operational records.

Schedule

1st shift: 6:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., with potential overtime or schedule adjustments based on business needs.