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Scrap Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Garner, NC ยท 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 ...

Material Handler

Sioux Falls, SD ยท On-site

$18/hr

Production Workers/Material Handlers TJN Enterprises, Inc. is hiring production workers/material ... Position involves: sorting/separating scrap materials, processing materials through equipment ...

Sets up scrap Gaylord boxes and replace those that are full. * Assist and coordinate activities with other Material Handlers * Remove and replace on-line scrap racks, and transfer those racks to the ...

Material Handler

Saint Louis, MO ยท On-site

$20/hr

Material Handler HiFyve is hiring a Material Handler in the Manufacturing industry in St. Louis, MO ... Weigh and record A-grade product and scrap on production sheets * Move finished goods to storage ...

Sets up scrap Gaylord boxes and replace those that are full. * Assist and coordinate activities with other Material Handlers * Remove and replace on-line scrap racks, and transfer those racks to the ...

Material Handler

Rockford, IL ยท On-site

$18.40/hr

Material Handler $18.40/hour 3rd Shift 11:00pm - 7:00am Reached a dead end at your current job ... Transport scrap to designated areas as required * Perform color changes * Keep departmental work ...

Sets up scrap Gaylord boxes and replace those that are full. * Assist and coordinate activities with other Material Handlers * Remove and replace on-line scrap racks, and transfer those racks to the ...

Material Handler

Nashua, NH ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Material Handler We're seeking a reliable Material Handler to keep production running smoothly by ... Remove scrap, packaging, and waste * Communicate with team members on material needs * Follow ...

Sets up scrap Gaylord boxes and replace those that are full. * Assist and coordinate activities with other Material Handlers * Remove and replace on-line scrap racks, and transfer those racks to the ...

Material Handler II

Hillside, IL ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Receives scrap baskets from plants, weighs them, and prepares them for shipment to the scrap yard ... Shipping and Receiving Material Handler Job Qualifications * Good communication skills * Warehouse ...

Material Handler (61476)

Ripon, WI ยท On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

As a Material Handler, you are responsible for moving materials/scrap around the facility, as well as updating all necessary logs and putting material in the proper holding/staging area. Essential ...

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Scrap Handler information

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$9

$17

$24

How much do scrap handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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 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 states have the most Scrap Handler jobs? States with the most job openings for Scrap Handler jobs include:
Infographic showing various Scrap Handler job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.

Material Handler

TT&E Iron & Metal, LLC

Garner, NC โ€ข On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

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 facility. This role supports daily operations by ensuring materials are processed, stored, and prepared for shipment while maintaining safety and environmental compliance.
Core Responsibilities:
  • Material Handling: Operate hydraulic grapple or magnetic cranes to lift, move, and sort scrap metal of varying sizes and densities.
  • Loading and Unloading: Load material onto outbound trucks/trailers and unload customer vehicles.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily pre-shift and post-shift safety inspections on the crane (e.g., fluid levels, cables, hydraulic grapples) and conduct routine maintenance like lubrication.
  • Safety Adherence: Comply with OSHA, environmental, and company safety standards, including maintaining a clear work area.
  • Coordination: Work with ground personnel and truck drivers to position vehicles for loading/unloading, often using radio communication.

Required Skills and Abilities:
  • Proven experience operating heavy equipment.
  • Four plus years of experience in the scrap metal industry.
  • Proficient with grapples, magnetic attachments, and hydraulic systems.
  • Strong understanding of safety protocols (e.g., JSA, OSHA) and ability to work in a high-volume, potentially hazardous environment.
  • Ability to work in a, often elevated, cabin for long hours, with good hand eye coordination and depth perception.
  • Strong attention to detail and safety awareness
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, outdoor environment.

Qualifications:
  • Education: High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Experience: Previous experience in scrap yards, recycling, warehouses, or construction environment preferred
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to lift 50+ pounds, stand for extended periods, and work in outdoor conditions (heat, cold, dust, noise)

Work Environment:
  • Outdoor yard setting with exposure to weather, noise, and heavy equipment
  • Physically demanding role requiring constant movement and lifting up to fifty pounds.
  • Loud noise and dusty environments require proper PPE, including ear and eye protection.
  • Hours Monday through Friday 8am - 5pm and Saturday 8am - 1pm.