ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Salvage Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsSalvage Operator Jobs

Salvage Operator information

See salary details

$9

$15

$22

How much do salvage operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for salvage operator in the United States is $15.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.26 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a salvage operator?

Salvage Operators are professionals responsible for recovering ships, cargo, or property that has been lost, stranded, or wrecked at sea or in other hazardous environments. They use specialized equipment and techniques to assess damage, refloat vessels, and safely recover valuable materials. Their work often involves diving, heavy machinery, and close collaboration with marine engineers and emergency response teams. Salvage Operators play a crucial role in minimizing environmental damage and financial losses resulting from marine accidents.

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

To thrive as a Salvage Operator, you need practical knowledge of machinery operation, basic mechanical skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy equipment, such as cranes, winches, and cutting torches, as well as certifications in forklift or hazardous materials handling, are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and attention to safety protocols are crucial soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient recovery and processing of materials, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity.

What are some typical challenges faced by a salvage operator during a recovery operation?

Salvage Operators often encounter unpredictable conditions such as unstable weather, hazardous materials, and challenging underwater environments during recovery operations. They must quickly assess risks, adapt their strategies, and coordinate closely with divers, engineers, and vessel crews to ensure safety and efficiency. Clear communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as operations can change rapidly and require teamwork to handle unexpected obstacles. Successfully overcoming these challenges not only ensures the safety of the team but also contributes to the timely and cost-effective completion of salvage projects.

What is the difference between Salvage Operator vs Marine Salvage Worker?

AspectSalvage OperatorMarine Salvage Worker
CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly STCW certificationsOSHA safety training, maritime safety certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, salvage yards, water-based operationsMaritime vessels, docks, offshore locations
Industry UsageConstruction, industrial salvage, waterway recoveryMaritime industry, shipwreck recovery, offshore salvage

Both roles involve water-based work and safety certifications, but Salvage Operators typically work in industrial or waterway environments, while Marine Salvage Workers focus on maritime vessel recovery and offshore operations. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in the salvage industry.

What states have the most Salvage Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Salvage Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Salvage Operator jobs?

For Salvage Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Salvage Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Salvage Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,528 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Skid Loader (Bundler) Operator - Birmingham

Birmingham, AL • On-site

National Salvage & Service Corporation
Clean Energy Semiconductors Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about National Salvage & Service Corporationexternal

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

The Team at National Salvage & Service Corporation as our next Skid Loader (Bundler) Operator.
At National Salvage & Service Corporation, we're not just industry leaders in Recycling & Salvage�we're a company committed to sustainability and innovation. We pride ourselves on recycling nearly all the materials we salvage, keeping them out of landfills, protecting the environment, and saving our customers money.
As a Skid Loader (Bundler) Operator at National, you'll be right in the heart of the action, working hands-on in the shop every day. Getting the job done with skill and precision.
If you're passionate about working with your hands and making a tangible impact, this is the role for you. Join us at National Salvage & Service Corporation and be a key player in a company that values quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.
Job Classification:
  • Non-Exempt
  • Daytime Hours
  • Monday � Sunday
  • On-Site role (Birmingham, Alabama)

Essential Functions:
  • Sort, grade and stack ties at the fuel yard
  • Basic mechanical skills
  • Operate a bobcat-tracked skid steer, secure and transport equipment.
  • Disciplined enough to work independently.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • 3+ years� experience running a skid loader
  • Physical Requirements: Stand, Walk, Reach, Balance, Stoop, Kneel, Hear, Climb, Bend, Twist, Move Throughout the Day, Use Hands in Repetitive Motions, Repeat Same Movements, can see up close, distances, color and has use of peripheral vision and depth perception, walk on uneven terrain, Lift 50 pounds, and Exposed to Loud Noises. This is an Outdoor Position, and you will be exposed to all weather elements.

National Salvage's Core Competencies:
  • Demonstrates National Salvage values
  • Driven for personal and company success
  • Delivers exemplary customer service internally and externally
  • Acts with integrity. Demonstrates responsible, ethical and honest behavior
  • Displays personal accountability
  • Fosters a collaborative environment
  • Demonstrates commitment to continuous improvement

Benefits of National:
  • Competitive pay
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Flexible dates for time off
  • Reasonably Flexible Schedule
  • 401(K) plan with company match
  • Opportunities for career advancement
  • Comprehensive Wellness program � offering 1:1 wellness coaching session
  • Full health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and long-term disability

This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position.
Duties and responsibilities may change without notice.
Verification of your right to work in the United States, as demonstrated by your completion of the Form I-9 upon hire and your submission of acceptable documentation (as noted on the Form I-9) verifying your identity and work authorization within three days of starting employment. For your convenience, a copy of the Form I-9 List of Acceptable Documents is enclosed for your review.
Satisfactory completion of a background investigation, for which the required notice and consent forms are enclosed.
Successful completion and passing a drug and alcohol test. All job applicants are subject to drug and alcohol testing.
National Salvage & Service Corporation and its related entities are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Apply