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Metal Buyer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bigfoot Staffing

Metal Buyer

Hillsboro, OR

$19/hr

BigFoot Staffing is excited to offer a Direct Hire Metal Buyer position. Once you apply, we'll reach out to schedule a time to talk more about this opportunity. Pay Range: $19.00/hour Schedule ...

Bigfoot Staffing

Metal Buyer

Portland, OR

$19/hr

BigFoot Staffing is excited to offer a Direct Hire Metal Buyer position. Once you apply, we'll reach out to schedule a time to talk more about this opportunity. Pay Range: $19.00/hour Schedule ...

American Iron and Metal

Jr. Scrap Metal Buyer

Colton, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Company Description American Iron & Metal (AIM) is a family-owned company and recognized global leader in the metal recycling industry with more than 125 sites and 4000 employees worldwide. We have ...

American Iron & Metal

Jr. Scrap Metal Buyer

Colton, CA

$25 - $28/hr

Company Description American Iron & Metal (AIM) is a family-owned company and recognized global leader in the metal recycling industry with more than 125 sites and 4000 employees worldwide. We have ...

Mid-City Scrap, LLC.

$65K - $75K/yr

Description The Outside Scrap Metal Buyer is responsible for developing and managing commercial scrap accounts throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This field-based role is ...

New

Mid-City Scrap, LLC.

The Outside Scrap Metal Buyer is responsible for developing and managing commercial scrap accounts throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This field-based role is responsible for ...

New

Mid-City Scrap LLC

Outside Scrap Metal Buyer

MA · On-site

The Outside Scrap Metal Buyer to develop and manage commercial scrap accounts throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This field-based role is responsible for generating new business ...

Mid-City Scrap, LLC

Outside Scrap Metal Buyer

Westport, MA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

The Outside Scrap Metal Buyer is responsible for developing and managing commercial scrap accounts throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. This field-based role is responsible for ...

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All JobsMetal Buyer Jobs

Metal Buyer information

See salary details

$34.5K

$68.4K

$102.5K

How much do metal buyer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for metal buyer in the United States is $68,384.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying scrap metal right now?

For a metal buyer, the highest paying scrap metals currently include copper, aluminum, and brass, with copper typically fetching the highest prices due to its demand in electrical and construction industries. Prices fluctuate based on market conditions, so staying updated through commodity reports or scrap metal price guides is essential for maximizing profit.

What is the difference between Metal Buyer vs Metal Sales Representative?

AspectMetal BuyerMetal Sales Representative
Primary RoleProcures metals for manufacturing or resale based on company needsMarkets and sells metals to clients, focusing on customer relationships
Required CredentialsKnowledge of metals, purchasing experience, negotiation skillsSales experience, knowledge of metals, communication skills
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, trading offices, manufacturing plantsOffice settings, client sites, trade shows
Industry UsageUsed by manufacturing, trading companies, and suppliersUsed by trading firms, suppliers, and distributors

While both roles involve metals, the Metal Buyer focuses on procurement and supply chain management, whereas the Metal Sales Representative emphasizes selling and client relations. Understanding these differences helps companies find the right expertise for their needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metal Buyer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metal Buyer, you need a solid understanding of metals markets, negotiation skills, and experience in procurement or supply chain management, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with ERP systems, inventory management software, and sometimes certifications like Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) are beneficial. Strong analytical abilities, relationship-building, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills are essential for securing the best prices, ensuring reliable supply, and maintaining profitable vendor relationships in a competitive industry.

What are metal buyers?

Metal buyers are professionals who purchase metals such as steel, aluminum, copper, or precious metals for manufacturing companies, recycling centers, or trading firms. They are responsible for sourcing materials, negotiating prices, and ensuring the quality and timely delivery of metals according to company requirements. Metal buyers must stay updated on market trends, manage supplier relationships, and often analyze market data to make cost-effective purchasing decisions.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Jobs that can earn $1,000,000 annually typically include high-level executive roles such as CEOs, investment bankers, and successful entrepreneurs, often combined with bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. Certain specialized professions like top surgeons, professional athletes, and celebrity entertainers may also reach this income level, but these are rare and usually require exceptional skill, experience, and reputation.

How many pounds of scrap metal do you need to make $100?

As a metal buyer, the amount of scrap metal needed to make $100 depends on the current market price per pound, which varies by metal type and location. For example, if scrap copper is valued at $3.50 per pound, you would need approximately 29 pounds to earn $100. Monitoring market prices and understanding metal grades are essential for accurate calculations.

Can you make money selling metal?

A metal buyer can make money by purchasing scrap or raw metals at lower prices and selling them at higher market rates, often relying on market knowledge and negotiation skills. Success depends on understanding metal prices, supply and demand, and maintaining efficient inventory management. Profitability varies based on market fluctuations and operational costs.

What are some typical challenges a Metal Buyer faces when sourcing materials, and how are these usually addressed?

Metal Buyers often encounter challenges such as fluctuating commodity prices, supply chain disruptions, and ensuring the quality of sourced metals. To address these issues, they regularly monitor market trends, build strong relationships with reliable suppliers, and negotiate contracts with clauses that account for price volatility. Additionally, Metal Buyers collaborate closely with quality assurance and logistics teams to ensure timely delivery and compliance with specifications, which helps minimize risk and maintain a steady supply of materials.
More about Metal Buyer jobs
What cities are hiring for Metal Buyer jobs? Cities with the most Metal Buyer job openings:
What states have the most Metal Buyer jobs? States with the most job openings for Metal Buyer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Metal Buyer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Metal Buyer jobs are:
Metal Buyer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metal Buyer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,384 per year, or $32.9 per hour.
Metal Buyer

Metal Buyer

Bigfoot Staffing

Hillsboro, OR

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

BigFoot Staffing is excited to offer a Direct Hire Metal Buyer position. Once you apply, we’ll reach out to schedule a time to talk more about this opportunity.


Pay Range: $19.00/hour

Schedule: Full-Time | Monday – Friday

Location: Hillsboro, OR

Industry: Recycling / Metals Processing


Description

We are seeking a knowledgeable and dependable Metal Buyer to join our Hillsboro facility. This position plays a key role in the purchasing, sorting, and processing of both ferrous and non-ferrous metals while helping maintain a safe, organized, and efficient recycling operation.


The ideal candidate will have experience identifying metal grades, operating heavy equipment such as forklifts and front-end loaders, and providing excellent customer service in a fast-paced industrial environment.


This is a hands-on role that combines material handling, purchasing, equipment operation, and customer interaction within a busy recycling and metals processing facility.

  • Identify and evaluate ferrous and non-ferrous metal grades
  • Purchase materials at the most favorable price while meeting quality and specification requirements
  • Operate equipment safely and efficiently, including:
  • Forklifts
  • Front-end loaders
  • Shears
  • Wire strippers
  • Tote tippers
  • Load and unload trailers, trucks, and containers
  • Move materials throughout the warehouse and processing yard
  • Enter purchase and sales information into company computer systems
  • Remove contaminants from recyclable commodities
  • Assist customers in the public depot and buyback area
  • Provide professional and courteous customer service
  • Assist law enforcement with company theft prevention procedures when required
  • Report equipment issues or malfunctions to supervisors and maintenance personnel
  • Participate in monthly safety meetings
  • Conduct daily inspections to ensure the facility remains safe, clean, and organized
  • Follow all company safety policies and wear required PPE at all times
  • Perform additional duties and operational support tasks as assigned


Qualifications & Skills

  • Knowledge of metal grades and scrap metal processing
  • Ability to safely operate a forklift and front-end loader
  • Strong ability to multitask in a fast-paced industrial environment
  • Ability to remain composed and productive under pressure
  • Basic math skills with the ability to calculate weights, quantities, and pricing accurately
  • Strong communication and customer service skills
  • Reliable attendance and strong work ethic
  • Willingness to participate in continued job training and skill development
  • Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus


Preferred Backgrounds

  • Scrap metal recycling or metals processing experience
  • Equipment operation experience in industrial or yard environments
  • Warehouse, recycling, or material handling backgrounds
  • Customer-facing industrial service experience
  • Experience with inventory or purchasing systems


Work Environment

  • Combination of outdoor yard and warehouse operations
  • Exposure to industrial equipment, metals, dust, and varying weather conditions
  • Physically active environment involving lifting, walking, climbing, and equipment operation
  • Fast-paced team environment with a strong focus on safety and organization


Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift up to 49 lbs unassisted
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, twisting, and climbing stairs
  • Ability to perform repetitive physical work throughout the shift
  • Frequent use of hands and computer systems for operational tasks
  • Ability to safely operate vehicles and equipment as needed


Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive hourly compensation based on experience
  • Stable full-time position with long-term opportunity
  • Hands-on role within a growing metals and recycling operation
  • Opportunity for continued training and advancement
  • Team-oriented environment focused on safety and operational excellence


If you have experience with metal identification, heavy equipment operation, and enjoy working in a fast-paced industrial setting, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today for the Metal Buyer position!


By applying for this job, you consent to being contacted by BigFoot Staffing representatives about job opportunities via text messaging. Standard messaging rates may apply. You may opt out at any time by replying 'STOP' to any message received.