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Scrap Metal Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Gebhart Holdings

Commercial Metal Trader

Wabash, IN · On-site

Purchase and sell non-ferrous scrap metal, while maintaining a current customer base, acquiring new customers, and providing excellent customer service. REPORTS TO: Chief Commercial Officer ...

United Scrap Metal Inc

Torch Operator

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$15/hr

Established in 1978, United Scrap Metal ("USM") has grown from $200 and a rental truck into one of the largest full-service recyclers in the country. Today, the USM team continues to pioneer ...

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All JobsScrap Metal JobsScrap Metal Jobs in Indiana

Scrap Metal information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do scrap metal jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for scrap metal in Indiana is $17.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How much can you make out of scrap metal?

Scrap metal workers typically earn based on the weight and type of metal they process, with prices fluctuating daily. On average, they can make between $20 to $50 per ton of scrap metal, depending on the metal's market value and their location. Skills in sorting and handling different metals can improve earnings, and safety certifications are often required.

How much money do metal scrappers make?

Metal scrappers typically earn between $10 and $25 per hour, depending on the type and amount of metal collected, local market prices, and experience. Some may also earn based on the weight of metals they process, with higher earnings for valuable materials like copper and aluminum.

How many pounds of scrap metal do you need to make $100?

As a scrap metal worker, the amount of scrap metal needed to earn $100 depends on the current market price per pound, which typically ranges from $0.20 to $0.50. For example, at $0.30 per pound, you would need approximately 333 pounds of scrap metal to make $100. Prices fluctuate based on metal type and market conditions, so accurate calculation requires knowing the specific scrap prices at the time.

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.

What are some 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 scrap metal workers and what do they 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 is the highest paying scrap metal?

In scrap metal jobs, the highest paying metals are typically precious metals like gold and silver, but these are rarely encountered in standard scrap work. Among common scrap metals, copper and aluminum tend to fetch higher prices, with copper often earning the most due to its widespread use and value. Skilled scrap metal workers who sort and handle these metals can earn higher wages based on the market prices and their experience.
What are popular job titles related to Scrap Metal jobs in Indiana? For Scrap Metal jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scrap Metal jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Scrap Metal jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Scrap Metal jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Scrap Metal job openings:
Scrap Metal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scrap Metal job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,643 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Commercial Metal Trader

Commercial Metal Trader

Gebhart Holdings

Wabash, IN

Other

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description

POSITION SUMMARY: Purchase and sell non-ferrous scrap metal, while maintaining a current customer base, acquiring new customers, and providing excellent customer service.


REPORTS TO: Chief Commercial Officer

SUPERVISES: N/A


ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Maintain existing customer base and relationships using exceptional customer service skills.
  • Acquire new customers through prospecting, using face-to-face cold calling, telephone solicitation, and all types of electronic communication.
  • The ability to identify different types of Ferrous and Non-Ferrous scrap metal.
  • The ability to price different grades of scrap metal using cost models.
  • Purchase 6mm lbs. Each month within our Gross Margin parameters
  • Handle customer issues in a professional, timely manner.
  • Gather appropriate information about the local market concerning prices, competitor information, and availability of supply.
  • Work closely with Logistics to determine the most cost-effective way to haul material and the proper equipment needed.
  • Interact with the Operations with regard to grading and quality of scrap metal.
  • The employee may be assigned to special projects or required to perform other duties not listed above, which may vary from time to time as determined by management, to meet company needs.
  • Regular and timely attendance are an expectation of the position.
  • Follow the 5S foundations for deploying lean production tools and processes.



Requirements

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

  • A college degree in business desirable or equivalent business experience preferred.
  • Experience in the scrap business up to 2 years in a related field.
  • Sales experience preferred.
  • Excel, Outlook, Word, and proficient math skills required.


COMPETENCIES:

  • Sales experience and ability to communicate effectively with a very diverse group of customers/suppliers.
  • Requires strong face-to-face, telephone and electronic communication skills. 
  • Travel is required approximately 25% of each month.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at a time.


CORE VALUES:

  • Service - Striving to provide the best experience for our customers and suppliers by making intentional actions and decisions to benefit others.
  • Organization - Possessing a fanatical commitment to operating clean, consistent, and efficient facilities.
  • Growth - Dedication towards continual improvement within our journey to become a better company.
  • Pride - To be proud of, and believe in, our company and the products and services we provide.


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