[11] Following Shanxi Longjin's dissolution in April 2022,[12] Yao joined China League One club Guangxi Pingguo Haliao.
[14] In 2023, Yao made a move to newly promoted China League One side Dandong Tengyue.
[14] Yao made 27 appearances in the league,[14] where he provided a vital assist against Guangzhou to secure survival for Dandong.
[16] On 1 January 2024, China League Two side Shaanxi Union announced that Yao had signed for the club on a two-year contract.
[14] On 24 January 2025, Yao made a return to China League One side Guangxi Pingguo.