Mule Driver (Ro-Ro Ops)

Mule Driver (Ro-Ro Ops)

Summary/Objective

A mule driver in Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) operations is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of wheeled cargo, such as cars, trucks, heavy machinery, and oversized loads, on and off specialized cargo vessels. They operate a "yard mule," also known as a terminal tractor or hostler, to tow non-motorized cargo (like trailers and Mafi platforms) from yard to berth / berth to ship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience: Previous experience operating a yard mule, terminal tractor, or other heavy equipment is required, with a minimum of 2 years often preferred.
• License: A valid driver's license is mandatory; a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) may be required or preferred.
• Certifications: The ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is often necessary for port access.
• Driving ability: Excellent driving skills are essential to safely maneuver equipment in tight, high-traffic areas, and in all weather conditions.
• Communication: Strong verbal communication skills are necessary to coordinate effectively with supervisors and team members.
• Physical fitness: The ability to perform physical tasks, including climbing, bending, and occasionally lifting and moving heavy items, is required.
• Attention to detail: A high degree of accuracy is needed to match cargo with the correct deck and position, and to secure it properly.
• Adaptability: The ability to work a flexible schedule, including night shifts, extended hours, weekends, and holidays, is often necessary. 

Responsibilities

• Cargo movement: Operate a yard mule to move various cargo types, including trailers, containers, and oversized equipment, to and from the shipyard, staging areas, and vessel decks.
• Loading and unloading: Drive vehicles, heavy machinery, and other self-propelled cargo directly onto the Ro-Ro vessel via built-in or shore-based ramps.
• Cargo securement: Ensure all is properly secured, units secured, chassis/containers pins locked; cargo on units secured using specialized systems such as chains, straps, and chocks to prevent movement during transit.
• Equipment inspection: Conduct daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the yard mule, including checking lights, brakes, and fluids, and report any maintenance issues to a supervisor.
• Radio communication: Receive, understand, and execute instructions from supervisors and dispatchers via two-way radio to manage the flow of traffic in the port.
• Yard and port organization: Stage cargo in designated areas to ensure the yard remains organized and accessible.
• Safety compliance: Adhere to all company and port authority safety protocols and regulations, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Record-keeping: Maintain accurate logs and documentation of all cargo movements as required by company procedures or yard management systems. 

Other Duties

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the responsibilities and expectations for this position. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the role. The scope of the position may evolve or change based on organizational needs, and management reserves the right to modify duties at any time, with or without prior notice. This document does not create a contract of employment, either express or implied.

Supervisory Responsibility 

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities. 

Work Environment

This position works in a port/terminal setting, with ample outdoor exposure during the workday. This role routinely stands for prolonged periods of time and performs other physical activities as needed. Position requires work outdoors in hot/humid, cold, and other inclement weather conditions depending on the time of year. This role randomly uses standard warehouse equipment such as hand trucks, box cutters and tape dispensers. 

Physical Demands

• Lift up to 50 lbs. without assistance and up to 150 lbs. with job aids or co-worker assistance 
• Carrying up to 25 lbs. for a distance up to 200 feet 
• Pushing/Pulling up to 80 lbs. without assistance and up to 250 lbs. with job aids or co-worker assistance 
• Standing/Walking activities are encountered during 75% of the normal workday 
• Sitting activities are normally not encountered outside of normal work breaks and would not exceed 10% of a workday 
• Stooping/Bending/Squatting activities are encountered on a frequent basis 
• Kneeling/Crouching/Crawling activities are encountered approximately 5% of an average workday 
• Climbing would comprise no more than 5% of an individual’s time 
• Reaching activities are conducted on a frequent and repetitive basis throughout the workday 
• An individual may be required to perform twisting activities, depending on the type of position he needs to place himself in while performing his/her job duties 

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work vary depending on the company’s needs. 

Travel

No travel is expected for this position. 

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

Applicants need to be able to obtain a Ports ID and a TWIC card.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance

Employee must be authorized to work in the United States. 

AAP/EEO Statement

Sun Terminals provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Further, the company takes affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and employees are treated during employment without regard to any of these characteristics. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.