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Scrap Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

Material Handler- Scrap Yard Operators load and unload materials as needed with hydraulic material handlers. Material may be loaded or unloaded from truck, rail, or barge. Overhead Crane- Scrap Yard ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$90K/yr

Preferred Qualifications: * 2-3 years' experience using a front-end loader, excavator, or scrap handler in an industrial/outdoor work environment. Nucor is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a drug ...

Hood Packaging

Material Resource Handler

Tyler, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Material Resource Handler Hood Packaging Corporation offers an environment that encourages ... Handles finished goods as needed in supporting the production department, and handling of scrap ...

SA Recycling

Material Handler

Calera, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Material Handler We are looking for hard-working, reliable and safety minded individuals to join ... Basic sorting of scrap, as well as metal and debris in preparation for processing. * Provide a safe ...

SA Recycling

Material Handler

Stuart, FL

$14.25 - $17/hr

As a Material Handler, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of a hydraulic ... Basic sorting of scrap, as well as metal and debris in preparation for processing. * Provide a safe ...

SA Recycling

Material Handler

Stuart, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Material Handler We are looking for hard-working, reliable and safety minded individuals to join ... Basic sorting of scrap, as well as metal and debris in preparation for processing. * Provide a safe ...

SA Recycling

Material Handler

Calera, AL

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

As a Material Handler, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of a hydraulic ... Basic sorting of scrap, as well as metal and debris in preparation for processing. * Provide a safe ...

SA Recycling

Material Handler

Stuart, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

As a Material Handler, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of a hydraulic ... Basic sorting of scrap, as well as metal and debris in preparation for processing. * Provide a safe ...

SA Recycling

Material Handler

Calera, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

As a Material Handler, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of a hydraulic ... Basic sorting of scrap, as well as metal and debris in preparation for processing. * Provide a safe ...

PHB Corporation

Metal Handler

Fairview, PA · On-site

METAL HANDLER / FORKLIFT OPERATOR PHB, Inc. located in Fairview, Pennsylvania, has openings for ... This includes transporting hot, bar, ingot, & scrap metal to and from inspection and die cast ...

PHB Corp

Metal Handler

Fairview, PA · On-site

A Metal Handler is responsible for: * Reading and understanding directions; follow oral ... This includes transporting hot, bar, ingot, & scrap metal to and from inspection and die cast ...

Nucor

Equipment Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$22/hr

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 ...

TT&E Iron & Metal, Inc.

Material Handler

Garner, NC · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Material Handler - Scrap Metal Industry Position Summary: The Material Handler is responsible for the safe and efficient handling, sorting, and movement of scrap metal materials within the yard or ...

TT&E Iron & Metal, LLC

Material Handler

Garner, NC · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Material Handler - Scrap Metal Industry Position Summary: The Material Handler is responsible for the safe and efficient handling, sorting, and movement of scrap metal materials within the yard or ...

TT&E Iron & Metal, LLC

Material Handler

Garner, NC · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Material Handler - Scrap Metal Industry Position Summary: The Material Handler is responsible for the safe and efficient handling, sorting, and movement of scrap metal materials within the yard or ...

TT&E Iron & Metal, LLC

Material Handler

Garner, NC · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Material Handler - Scrap Metal Industry Position Summary: The Material Handler is responsible for the safe and efficient handling, sorting, and movement of scrap metal materials within the yard or ...

Nucor

Equipment Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$22/hr

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 ...

Poly-America

Material Handler

Grand Prairie, TX · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Material Handler Poly-America, L.P., a leading manufacturer of plastic products, is seeking a ... This role works to secure and transfer finished goods and/or scrap Responsibilities include the ...

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Scrap Handler information

See salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do scrap handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for scrap handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scrap handler?

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 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 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 states have the most Scrap Handler jobs?

States with the most job openings for Scrap Handler jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Scrap Handler jobs?

For Scrap Handler jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Scrap Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scrap Handler job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX • On-site

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC
Coal, Metals and Minerals Mining • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about OPTIMUS STEEL LLCexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description

This position reports to scrap yard management and the melting supervisor.  Responsibilities include operation of locomotives, railcar movements (switching) and the operation of material handling equipment and overhead cranes.  This is a 24/7 shift position with work performed outdoors in all weather conditions.     

Scrap Yard Operators support all scrap delivery and consumption including initial quality and environmental inspection, weighing, data entry, recordkeeping and reporting and inventory management.  Pre use inspection and responsible management of equipment is required. 


Rail - Scrap Yard Operators are responsible for safe rail movement to support plant operations. Including strategic and timely movement of scrap to the melt shop and providing railcars for all other operational needs.   


Material Handler- Scrap Yard Operators load and unload materials as needed with hydraulic material handlers.  Material may be loaded or unloaded from truck, rail, or barge.


Overhead Crane- Scrap Yard Operators use overhead cranes to load charge buckets for the furnace.  Based on melt schedule and scrap recipes they are key in loading buckets to meet grade requirements.   They are responsible for communication of upcoming scrap needs to ensure the prompt delivery of scrap grades to support production.

Requirements

Requirements

High School diploma/GED

2+ years working in an industrial environment

Experienced in working in extreme weather conditions

Able to climb, bend, stand or lift items

Strong Mechanical aptitude

Must be able to pass a written test, face to face interview and a hands-on assessment

Use of tools and equipment: Overhead crane, hydraulic material handler, locomotive, rail cars, computer, handheld radio rail scales


Wages & Benefits
Optimus Steel has a competitive benefit package.
Medical/Prescription
Dental, Vision, Health & Dependent Care FSA
401K, Company match
Basic Life/Accident Insurance
Employee Assistance Program

Apply