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Metal Scrap Yard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ALLOYS TECH INC

Assistant Yard Operator

Woodstock, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

About Us Alloys Tech Inc. is a growing specialty scrap metal company in Woodstock, Illinois. We ... Position Overview We are hiring a full-time Assistant Yard Operator to support daily yard ...

M&M Recycling

Excavator Operator

Locust Grove, GA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

You will be a key player in keeping the yard running safely and efficiently, and you will be trained to operate specialized machinery, including our scrap metal baler and scrap shear This is a strong ...

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Metal Scrap Yard information

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$10

$16

$22

How much do metal scrap yard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for metal scrap yard in the United States is $16.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a metal scrap yard?

A metal scrap yard is a facility where various types of metal waste and scrap materials are collected, sorted, processed, and recycled. Individuals, businesses, and industries bring unwanted metal items—such as appliances, vehicles, and construction materials—to the yard, where they are evaluated and often purchased by weight. The scrap is then sorted by type (like aluminum, copper, or steel), cleaned, and prepared for sale to manufacturers or recycling plants that turn it into new products. Metal scrap yards play a vital role in reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and supporting the recycling industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a metal scrap yard worker?

To thrive as a Metal Scrap Yard Worker, you need knowledge of metal types, safe handling procedures, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy machinery, tools like shears and forklifts, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are typically required. Physical stamina, attention to detail, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient, safe operations and compliance with environmental and safety regulations in the scrap yard.

What are the typical safety challenges faced when working at a metal scrap yard, and how are they addressed?

Working at a metal scrap yard often involves handling heavy materials, sharp objects, and operating machinery, which can present safety challenges such as cuts, falls, and equipment-related injuries. To address these, employees are trained in proper lifting techniques, required to wear personal protective equipment like gloves, hard hats, and steel-toed boots, and follow strict safety protocols. Regular safety meetings and equipment inspections are also standard practices to ensure a safe work environment. Being vigilant and adhering to these procedures significantly minimizes risks and helps maintain a secure workplace.

What is the difference between Metal Scrap Yard vs Metal Recycling Technician?

AspectMetal Scrap YardMetal Recycling Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma; some certificationsHigh school diploma; certifications in safety and equipment operation
Work EnvironmentOutdoor scrapyards, industrial settingsRecycling plants, processing facilities
Job DutiesSorting, storing, and selling scrap metalsProcessing, sorting, and preparing metals for recycling
Industry UsageCommonly used in scrap yards and salvage operationsUsed in recycling facilities and metal processing plants

The Metal Scrap Yard primarily focuses on collecting, sorting, and selling scrap metals in outdoor environments. In contrast, the Metal Recycling Technician works within recycling facilities, processing metals for reuse. Both roles require safety certifications and involve handling metals, but their work settings and specific duties differ significantly.

How much do metal scrap yard workers make?

Metal scrap yard workers typically earn an average hourly wage of around $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and responsibilities. Some positions may offer additional benefits or overtime pay, especially for those operating heavy machinery or handling hazardous materials.
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Metal Scrap Yard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metal Scrap Yard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,905 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Scrap Yard Excavator Operator

Mid Oregon Personnel

Redmond, OR

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
A growing scrap metal recycling facility is seeking a dependable, safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. Candidates with a minimum of one (1) year of excavator experience are strongly preferred. This position is ideal for individuals who have experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, recycling, or other heavy industrial environments and are looking to expand their skills.
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will safely operate excavators and other material handling equipment to process, sort, and move scrap metal while maintaining a productive, organized, and safety-focused work environment. Qualified candidates will receive hands-on training to operate shear cranes and specialized recycling equipment.
If you enjoy operating heavy equipment, working outdoors, and being part of a hardworking team, we'd love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate an excavator to move, sort, load, and process scrap metal safely and efficiently.
  • Train to operate a shear crane and other heavy equipment used in scrap metal recycling.
  • Load, unload, organize, and transport recyclable materials throughout the yard.
  • Operate loaders, forklifts, cranes, and other material handling equipment as needed.
  • Perform daily pre-operation and post-operation equipment inspections.
  • Report equipment maintenance needs and safety concerns promptly.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA standards while working around heavy machinery.
  • Assist customers with unloading recyclable materials.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Perform general yard labor and equipment-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Minimum of one (1) year of excavator operating experience preferred.
  • Experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, scrap metal recycling, or heavy industrial environments is highly desirable.
  • Experience operating shear cranes, material handlers, loaders, forklifts, or other heavy equipment is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of equipment safety, inspections, and preventative maintenance.
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn new equipment and operating techniques.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift, move, and handle materials safely.
  • Reliable attendance, strong work ethic, and commitment to workplace safety.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented environment.
What We Offer
  • Long-term, full-time career opportunity
  • Monday–Friday daytime schedule
  • Paid on-the-job training for shear crane operation
  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution match
  • Opportunities for advancement and career growth
  • Stable, supportive, team-oriented work environment
Schedule
  • Monday–Friday
  • 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
  • Full-Time

Compensation
Starting Wage: $22.00–$25.00 per hour (DOE)

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