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Scrap Handler Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Preferred Qualifications: * 2+ years experience using a front-end loader, wheel loader, trackhoe, excavator, or scrap handler in an industrial/outdoor work environment is preferred. Nucor is an Equal ...

Preferred Qualifications: * 2+ years experience using a front-end loader, wheel loader, trackhoe, excavator, or scrap handler in an industrial/outdoor work environment is preferred. Nucor is an Equal ...

Material Handler

Sweetwater, TN · On-site

$18.50/hr

Material Handler Location: Loudon, TN Pay: $18.50/hour Schedule: Monday- Friday | 6: 00 AM - 2: 30 ... Supply production areas with required materials and remove scrap or excess materials. Maintain ...

Material Handler

Loudon, TN · On-site

$18.50/hr

Material Handler Location: Loudon, TN Pay: $18.50/hour Schedule: Monday-Friday | 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM ... Supply production areas with required materials and remove scrap or excess materials. * Maintain ...

Material Handler

Sweetwater, TN · On-site

$18.50/hr

Material Handler Location: Loudon, TN Pay: $18.50/hour Schedule: Monday- Friday | 6: 00 AM - 2: 30 ... Supply production areas with required materials and remove scrap or excess materials. * Maintain ...

Material Handler Department: Physical Distribution Reports To: Warehouse Supervisor FLSA Status ... Unloads scrap bales from baler and stores for scrap disposal. * Other duties as assigned.

Material Handler

Vonore, TN · On-site

$28.96/hr

Material Handler Department: Physical Distribution Reports To: Warehouse Supervisor FLSA Status ... Unloads scrap bales from baler and stores for scrap disposal. * Other duties as assigned.

Material Handler

Vonore, TN · On-site

$28.96/hr

Material Handler Department: Physical Distribution Reports To: Warehouse Supervisor FLSA Status ... Unloads scrap bales from baler and stores for scrap disposal. * Other duties as assigned.

... Handlers. This is a fantastic chance to gain valuable experience and contribute to a thriving ... and Stop Scrap procedures (related to all manufacturing) where applicable * Obtain Valeo ...

Material Handler

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

... and Stop Scrap procedures (related to all manufacturing) where applicable. * Obtain Valeo ... Material Handler Organization: Physical Flows - J Schedule: Full time Employee Status: Regular Job ...

Material Handler

Smyrna, TN

$15.50 - $19/hr

... and Stop Scrap procedures (related to all manufacturing) where applicable. * Obtain Valeo ... Material Handler Organization: Physical Flows - J Schedule: Full time Employee Status: Regular Job ...

Material Handler

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

... and Stop Scrap procedures (related to all manufacturing) where applicable. * Obtain Valeo ... Material Handler Organization: Physical Flows - J Schedule: Full time Employee Status: Regular Job ...

Material Handler

Sweetwater, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Material Handler Infrastructure Products Group Sweetwater, Tennessee, United States Job ID: 524284 ... Empty dumpsters and scrap bins * Other responsibilities may be assigned on a temporary or permanent ...

Material Handler

Dyersburg, TN · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Material Handler I - Data Center Cooling Job Summary Our Forklift Drivers are responsible for ... Expedites operations that delay schedules, such as scrap, rework, missing materials and ...

Material Handler - Distribution

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Material Handler Identifies and transports material to and from storage areas, machines, loading ... Disposes of scrap or trash into compactor and activates compacting cycle all while keeping ...

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Scrap Handler information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do scrap handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for scrap handler in Tennessee is $16.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are scrap handlers?

Scrap handlers are professionals who operate specialized machinery to move, sort, and process scrap metal and other recyclable materials in scrapyards, recycling centers, or industrial sites. They are responsible for safely handling and transporting materials, often using equipment such as cranes, forklifts, or excavators designed for heavy-duty work. Scrap handlers help ensure that materials are efficiently sorted and prepared for recycling or disposal, contributing to environmental sustainability and resource recovery. Their work requires knowledge of safety protocols and familiarity with various types of scrap materials.

What are some common challenges faced by Scrap Handlers in their daily work, and how can they be managed?

Scrap Handlers often encounter challenges such as safely operating heavy machinery, sorting materials efficiently, and maintaining a clean work environment amidst dust and debris. Effective communication with team members and adherence to safety protocols are crucial for minimizing risks and ensuring smooth operations. Regular training and staying alert during shifts can help manage these challenges, while teamwork plays a key role in meeting production targets and maintaining workplace safety.

What is the difference between Scrap Handler vs Forklift Operator?

AspectScrap HandlerForklift Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; OSHA safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; OSHA forklift certification
Work EnvironmentScrap yards, recycling facilities, industrial sitesWarehouses, manufacturing plants, shipping docks
Industry UsageHeavy industry, recycling, metal processingLogistics, warehousing, manufacturing

Scrap Handlers and Forklift Operators both work in industrial environments and require safety certifications. However, Scrap Handlers focus on managing scrap materials in recycling and metal yards, while Forklift Operators primarily handle material movement within warehouses and factories. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and industry needs.

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

To thrive as a Scrap Handler, you need physical stamina, attention to safety, and basic knowledge of materials handling, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with forklifts, cranes, balers, and sometimes certifications in equipment operation are typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and attention to detail help ensure efficiency and workplace safety. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining safe, organized, and productive scrapyard or recycling operations.
What are popular job titles related to Scrap Handler jobs in Tennessee? For Scrap Handler jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Scrap Handler job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,921 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

$20 - $22/hr

Other

PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Heavy Equipment Operator supports the safe and efficient operation of the scrap yard by operating various material handling equipment relevant to a scrap yard, including material handlers, front-end loaders, skid steers, and other pieces of heavy or light equipment. Equipment operators may perform various duties, such as feeding the shredder feed conveyor, loading and unloading trucks, and moving materials safely about the yard. This position requires attention to detail and a strong emphasis on safety. 

ABOUT HARMON SCRAP METAL

We are Harmon Scrap Metal, we recycle by processing scrap metal, and we are growing by the day. Our mission is to empower people to recycle the past to impact the future. We are intentional and disciplined in our pursuit to see every team member reach their personal, professional, and financial goals through the work we do together. Our core values, Discipline, Trust, Accountability, Alignment, and Adaptability, are the backbone of our business. They guide our hiring process and daily operations. We are transparent and results-oriented in all we do. 

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES

  • Properly follow company and OSHA safety procedures; attend safety meetings and participate in safety program 
  • Operate heavy equipment of various sizes, including material handler, loaders, skid steers, etc. 
  • Duties include but are not limited to loading scrap material onto shredder feed conveyor, unloading vehicles, pushing shred pile up, moving material throughout the yard, loading trucks and railcars, etc. 
  • Perform daily pre-operation inspections on equipment, reporting any defects or needed repairs via CRMM app  
  • Keep grounds clear of debris while maintaining safety standards 
  • General labor duties that may include but not limited to sweeping, shoveling and general clean-up of any area and/or equipment throughout the yard 
  • Effectively communicate over radio with teammates and truck drivers for traffic coordination, production, and safety procedures 
  • Attend and participate in internal meetings and complete required training 
  • Performs other related duties as assigned by management 

BENEFITS

  • QSEHRA Reimbursement 
  • Paid Holidays 
  • PTO Program  
  • Professional Training & Development Opportunities 

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

As an equal opportunity employer committed to meeting the needs of a multigenerational and multicultural workforce, Harmon Scrap Metal recognizes that a diverse staff, reflective of our community, is an integral and welcome part of a successful and ethical business. We hire local talent at all levels regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability and actively foster inclusion in all forms both within our company and across interactions with clients, candidates, and partners. 

If this position caught your eye, send us your resume! For best consideration, include the job title and source where you found this position in the subject line of your email to careers@harmonscrapmetal.com. 

Disclaimer: The sorting and processing of scrap metals involves using permanent magnets and electromagnets, creating magnetic fields, which can interfere with electronic medical devices like cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators. 

Requirements

KEY COMPETENCIES

  • Thorough understanding of practices involved in the use of various types of light and heavy equipment 
  • Thorough understanding of maintenance and basic upkeep associated with light and heavy equipment 
  • Thorough understanding of safety protocols and ability to safely operate machinery 
  • Superior skill operating assigned equipment safely and efficiently 
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills 
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety manuals and procedure manuals 

 EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • 2 years of experience using a front-end loader, skid steer or scrap handler in an industrial/outdoor work environment 
  • Knowledge of heavy-equipment operating principles 
  • Ability to operate equipment under varying working conditions 
  • Valid Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Sit for extended periods, up to 15 feet from ground level 
  • Ability to lift, push, or pull a minimum of 50 pounds 
  • Frequently climb up and down ladders; crouch and bend at the knee; stoop or bend at the waist; reach arms overhead; and twist and turn at the neck and trunk 
  • Continually handle and grasp levers and dials; continuous leg and foot motion when using pedals 
  • Work environment involves frequent and/or regular exposure to natural and unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, and/or loud noises 
  • Walk frequently on uneven surfacesÂ