ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Scrap Metal Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Operate a various heavy equipment to load and unload scrap metal and debris in preparation for processing or shipping. * Determine load weights and verify against lifting capacities to prevent ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Operate a various heavy equipment to load and unload scrap metal and debris in preparation for processing or shipping. * Determine load weights and verify against lifting capacities to prevent ...

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Technician I - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$35K - $48K/yr

Manage waste streams, including scrap metal and environmental considerations. * Perform material selection, handling, setup, and programming for specific tasks. Quality and Production: * Interpret ...

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Technician I - Day Shift

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$35K - $48K/yr

Manage waste streams, including scrap metal and environmental considerations. * Perform material selection, handling, setup, and programming for specific tasks. Quality and Production: * Interpret ...

SA Recycling

Weighmaster Ferrous

Glendale, AZ · On-site

... the scrap metal yard to ensure swift work when materials arrive. • Process and reports end of day totals • Ascending and descending staircases for inspections of loads • Adhere to specific ...

SA Recycling

Weighmaster Ferrous

Glendale, AZ · On-site

... scrap metal yard to ensure swift work when materials arrive. • Process and reports end of day totals • Ascending and descending staircases for inspections of loads • Adhere to specific dress ...

SA Recycling

Forklift Operator

Phoenix, AZ

$16.25 - $19/hr

Scrap metal Recycling and shredder yard • Equipment & Tools: Shredder & other metal processing equipment, Hoists, hydraulic motors, mechanics tools • Physical Demand Level: Light to Moderate • ...

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Tech II - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$46K - $64K/yr

Manage waste streams including scrap metal and environmental considerations. * JSA: Comprehend and sign off on Job Safety Analysis (JSA). * Housekeeping: Maintain cleanliness and organization in the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsScrap Metal JobsScrap Metal Jobs in Arizona

Scrap Metal information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$16

$21

How much do scrap metal jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for scrap metal in Arizona is $16.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $18.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a scrap metal worker do?

Scrap metal workers are professionals who collect, sort, process, and recycle various types of metal materials that are no longer in use. Their work involves separating ferrous and non-ferrous metals, preparing metals for resale or recycling, and sometimes operating heavy machinery for cutting or baling metals. They play an important role in the recycling industry by helping to reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and support environmental sustainability.

What are common safety challenges faced by scrap metal workers on the job?

Scrap metal workers often encounter safety challenges such as handling sharp or heavy materials, exposure to hazardous substances, and operating heavy machinery. To address these risks, workers must follow strict safety protocols, use personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and steel-toed boots, and participate in regular safety training. Many facilities also have established procedures for proper material sorting and equipment operation to minimize accidents and injuries. Staying vigilant and adhering to these guidelines helps ensure a safer work environment for everyone involved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scrap metal worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scrap Metal Worker, you need knowledge of metal types, safe handling procedures, and basic mechanical skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like metal cutters, forklifts, and weighing scales, as well as certifications such as OSHA safety training, are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong physical stamina are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient, safe processing and sorting of scrap materials, minimizing workplace accidents and maximizing material value.

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

AspectScrap MetalScrap Metal Worker
CredentialsNone specific, often self-taught or on-the-job trainingMay require OSHA safety certifications or specialized training
Work EnvironmentRecycling yards, scrapyards, industrial sitesHandling, sorting, and processing scrap metal at scrapyards or recycling facilities
Industry UsageRefers to the material or industry sectorRefers to the job role or occupation

Scrap Metal refers to the material or industry involved in recycling metal waste, while Scrap Metal Worker is the individual performing tasks like sorting, processing, and handling scrap metal. The worker role requires specific safety certifications and hands-on skills, whereas the term Scrap Metal broadly describes the material or industry sector.

How much money do scrap metal workers make?

Scrap metal workers typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Skilled workers who operate heavy equipment or have certifications may earn higher wages, and the job often involves physical labor in outdoor environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Scrap Metal jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Scrap Metal jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Scrap Metal jobs in Arizona?

For Scrap Metal jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Scrap Metal jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Scrap Metal jobs in Arizona are:

Scrap Metal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scrap Metal job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,906 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Equipment Operator

SA Recycling

Glendale, AZ • On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 91 rated recycling and waste

Job description

We are looking for a hard-working, reliable and safety minded individual to join our team as an Equipment Operator.  As a Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of a heavy equipment to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard.

This position will work outside in varying weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

SA Recycling offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Choice of 2 Medical plans, with Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Weekly Pay
  • Referral Incentives
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE
  • Eligible for Safety and Profitability Bonuses
  • Advancement Opportunities

 

Responsibilities of an Equipment Operator         

  • Operate a various heavy equipment to load and unload scrap metal and debris in preparation for processing or shipping.
  • Determine load weights and verify against lifting capacities to prevent overloads and dangerous situations.
  • Identify and grade inbound scrap and reject unacceptable items.
  • Drain and remove fluids and gasses from autos, refrigerators, air conditioners, etc.
  • Direct truck drivers into proper position for loading and unloading of scrap metal or other materials.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report any concerns, defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
  • Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.

Qualifications of Equipment Operator

  • High School diploma, GED Certification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 1-year experience operating a hydraulic crane and wheeled bucket loader; operations in the scrap metal or construction industries preferred.
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus.
  • Ability to carry out instructions provided in written or oral form.
  • Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required.

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified). 

All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

What SA Recycling employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply