ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Metals Recycling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SA Recycling

Shredder Operator

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable, diligent and safety-conscious Shredder Operator to join our production team. The ...

Gerdau

METALS RECYCLING BUYER II

Milan, TN

The supplier base will include established accounts, casual peddlers, auto wreckers, and other generators of scrap metal. This position reports directly to the Regional Raw Materials Manager and has ...

Gerdau

METALS RECYCLING BUYER II

Sikeston, MO · On-site

The supplier base will include established accounts, casual peddlers, auto wreckers, and other generators of scrap metal. This position reports directly to the Regional Raw Materials Manager and has ...

SA Recycling LLC

St. Charles, MO 63301, USA St Louis - Broadway R 3144 N Broadway Saint Louis, MO 63147, USA St Louis - Broadway R 3144 N Broadway Saint Louis, MO 63147, USA SA Recycling, a leader in the metals ...

SA Recycling

Shredder Operator

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable, diligent and safety-conscious Shredder Operator to join our production team. The ...

Amarillo Metals Co

Be Seen First

Non-Ferrous Scrap Metal Recycling Manager

Amarillo, TX · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Company Description Amarillo Metals Co. is a fast-paced, high-energy scrap metal recycling company where every day brings new challenges and opportunities -- from processing and shipping tons of ...

Gerdau

METALS RECYCLING BUYER II

Milan, TN · On-site

The supplier base will include established accounts, casual peddlers, auto wreckers, and other generators of scrap metal. This position reports directly to the Regional Raw Materials Manager and has ...

Gerdau

METALS RECYCLING BUYER II

Sikeston, MO

The supplier base will include established accounts, casual peddlers, auto wreckers, and other generators of scrap metal. This position reports directly to the Regional Raw Materials Manager and has ...

Keywell Metals

Manufacturing Labor

Matthews, NC · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Position Summary The General Laborer supports daily operations within a metals recycling and processing facility. This role is responsible for handling, sorting, and processing scrap metal materials ...

SA Recycling

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable and experienced individual to join our team as a Front-End Loader (Wheel Loader ...

Keywell Metals

Manufacturing Labor

Monroe, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Position Summary The General Laborer supports daily operations within a metals recycling and processing facility. This role is responsible for handling, sorting, and processing scrap metal materials ...

Keywell Metals

Manufacturing Labor

Falconer, NY · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

DESCRIPTION Position Summary The General Laborer supports daily operations within a metals recycling and processing facility. This role is responsible for handling, sorting, and processing scrap ...

SA Recycling

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable and experienced individual to join our team as a Front-End Loader (Wheel Loader ...

Keywell Metals

Manufacturing Labor

Matthews, NC · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

DESCRIPTION Position Summary The General Laborer supports daily operations within a metals recycling and processing facility. This role is responsible for handling, sorting, and processing scrap ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsEnergy And Environment JobsMetals Recycling Jobs

Metals Recycling information

See salary details

$10

$17

$35

How much do metals recycling jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for metals recycling in the United States is $17.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is metals recycling?

Metals recycling is the process of collecting, processing, and reusing scrap metal materials rather than discarding them as waste. This process involves sorting, cleaning, melting, and reforming metals so they can be used again in manufacturing new products. Recycling metals helps conserve natural resources, reduce energy use, and minimize environmental pollution. Common metals that are recycled include steel, aluminum, copper, and brass.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a metals recycling professional?

To thrive in Metals Recycling, you need knowledge of materials identification, safe handling procedures, and basic mechanical skills, often supported by relevant safety training or certifications. Familiarity with equipment such as forklifts, balers, and metal analyzers, as well as compliance with environmental and OSHA regulations, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help professionals efficiently sort materials and maintain a safe work environment. These skills are crucial to ensure operational efficiency, workplace safety, and regulatory compliance in a physically demanding industry.

What are some common challenges faced in a metals recycling role, and how can job seekers prepare for them?

Working in metals recycling often involves handling heavy materials, operating machinery, and adhering to strict safety protocols. A common challenge is managing the physical demands of the job while maintaining attention to detail when sorting and processing various types of metals. Additionally, staying updated on environmental regulations and best practices is essential. Job seekers can prepare by developing strong teamwork skills, familiarizing themselves with safety standards, and gaining experience with tools and equipment commonly used in recycling facilities.

What is the difference between Metals Recycling vs Scrap Metal Worker?

AspectMetals RecyclingScrap Metal Worker
CredentialsMay require certifications in safety and environmental handlingOften requires safety training, but fewer formal certifications
Work EnvironmentRecycling facilities, processing plants, outdoor yardsScrap yards, salvage yards, outdoor environments
Industry UsageUsed in recycling centers, metal processing companiesEmployed at scrap yards, salvage operations
Job FocusOverseeing recycling processes, sorting, and processing metalsManual handling, sorting, and loading scrap metals

Both roles are integral to the metal industry, with Metals Recycling focusing on managing recycling operations and Scrap Metal Workers handling manual sorting and processing. While they share similar environments and safety requirements, Metals Recycling roles often involve more oversight and processing responsibilities.

Do metal recyclers make good money?

Metal recyclers can earn a moderate income, with wages often depending on experience, location, and the volume of materials processed. Skilled workers who operate specialized equipment or hold certifications may have higher earning potential. Overall, it is a job that offers steady employment but typically does not provide high salaries compared to other trades or industries.

How to become a metals recycler?

To become a metals recycler, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and knowledge of metal types and recycling processes. Gaining experience through entry-level positions or apprenticeships, understanding safety protocols, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects in this field.
More about Metals Recycling jobs

What cities are hiring for Metals Recycling jobs?

Cities with the most Metals Recycling job openings:

What states have the most Metals Recycling jobs?

States with the most job openings for Metals Recycling jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Metals Recycling jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Metals Recycling jobs are:

Metals Recycling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metals Recycling job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,362 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Scrap Yard Operations Manager - Non-Ferrous Metals Recycling - Base Salary to 150k/year - Detroit, M

Detroit, MI • On-site

AllSearch Professional Staffing
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about AllSearch Professional Staffingexternal

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Scrap Yard Operations Manager - Non-Ferrous Metals Recycling - Base Salary to 150k/year - Detroit, MI 

  • Our client, a high-volume metals recycling operation, is seeking a Scrap Yard Operations Manager to lead daily operations within a high-volume non-ferrous processing environment. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring deep expertise in non-ferrous metal grading, purchasing, and yard operations management.
  • This position is ideal for a candidate who has worked extensively in a non-ferrous scrap yard, understands material value and market pricing, and can lead teams while actively participating in operations.

Responsibilities:

  • Oversee daily operations of a non-ferrous scrap yard, including purchasing, grading, processing, shipping, and inventory control
  • Accurately grade and purchase non-ferrous materials such as copper, aluminum, brass, stainless steel, and insulated wire
  • Lead, train, and develop yard personnel in a hands-on, production-driven environment
  • Maintain efficient material flow across inbound, processing, and outbound functions
  • Operate and oversee equipment including forklifts, balers, skid steers (bobcats), and other yard machinery
  • Ensure inventory accuracy and proper tracking of inbound/outbound materials
  • Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, peddlers, and commercial/industrial accounts
  • Monitor market pricing trends to support effective and competitive purchasing decisions
  • Enforce safety and environmental standards in a high-traffic industrial setting
  • Coordinate outbound shipments with logistics providers and downstream consumers
  • Train staff on grading standards, equipment operation, and yard best practices

Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of experience in a non-ferrous scrap recycling environment (scrap yard setting required)
  • Strong, hands-on experience with non-ferrous metal grading and purchasing (copper, aluminum, brass, stainless, insulated wire) required
  • Proven ability to operate heavy equipment (forklifts, balers, skid steers/bobcats) in an industrial setting
  • Leadership experience supervising employees in a high-volume yard or production environment

Compensation:

  • Base salary to 150k/year
  • Discretionary bonus opportunity
  • Health benefits and 401k plan

#INDALL