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Scrap Metal Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Tower Mill Operator - Scrap Metal Recycling Pay: Starting at $30.00 per hour Job Type: Full-Time Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Tower Mill Operator to join our scrap metal recycling ...

New

General Labor

North Chili, NY · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • Retirement

Separates metal shavings, chips, and scrap materials from trash and places them in bins. * May remove burrs or excess metal from machined parts, using drill press, files, sandpaper, emery cloth, or ...

General Labor

North Chili, NY · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • Retirement

Separates metal shavings, chips, and scrap materials from trash and places them in bins. May remove burrs or excess metal from machined parts, using drill press, files, sandpaper, emery cloth, or ...

Sims Metal (Sims) is a global leader in metal recycling. With facilities across the globe, Sims ... Load trucks, pile scrap material, and load/unload barges and rail cars. * Conduct end-of-shift ...

New

General Laborer (Manufacturing)

Ontario, NY

$17.50 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our three facilities encompass all aspects of metal product manufacturing including our own on-site ... Removes workpiece and scrap from machines. ** Clean working area, machines and working equipment ...

Machine Operator 1st shift

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Summary Apply metal to customer orders and accurately process material according to the work ... Identify, record, and segregate scrap and any non-conforming material. * Provide feedback to ...

Machine

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Your responsibilities Job Summary Apply metal to customer orders and accurately process material ... Identify, record, and segregate scrap and any non-conforming material. * Provide feedback to ...

General Laborer

Brockport, NY · On-site

$16.50/hr

Dismantle various e-scrap components such as flat screen televisions, computers, etc. * Place disassembled parts on conveyor to be placed in appropriate bins. * Adhere to safety protocols and ...

Scrap Metal information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do scrap metal jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for scrap metal in Rochester, NY is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.47 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.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Scrap Metal jobs in Rochester, NY?

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

What job categories do people searching Scrap Metal jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Scrap Metal jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Scrap Metal jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Scrap Metal job openings:

Infographic showing various Scrap Metal job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,958 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Tower Mill Operator

Sims Limited

North Chili, NY • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Sims Metal (Sims) is a global leader in metal recycling. With facilities across the globe, Sims plays an intrinsic role in the circular economy by making resources available for future use. As a responsible corporate citizen, we continuously seek new ways to broaden our participation in the environmental sector, ensuring that our future is as bright, safe, and secure as at any time in our long history.

Tower Mill Operator - Scrap Metal RecyclingPay: Starting at $30.00 per hour
Job Type: Full-TimeJob Summary

We are seeking an experienced Tower Mill Operator to join our scrap metal recycling operation. This position is responsible for safely operating and monitoring tower mill equipment and associated processing systems to maintain efficient production and material quality.

Responsibilities
  • Operate and monitor tower mill and scrap-processing equipment.
  • Monitor conveyors, feeders, and material flow throughout the system.
  • Identify and safely address jams, blockages, and equipment issues.
  • Perform routine equipment inspections and basic preventive maintenance.
  • Monitor equipment for abnormal noises, vibration, or mechanical problems.
  • Communicate maintenance needs and production issues to supervisors.
  • Maintain a clean and safe work area.
  • Follow all safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).
  • Operate loaders, skid steers, or forklifts when trained and authorized.
Qualifications
  • Previous experience in a scrap yard, recycling facility, steel mill, or heavy industrial environment preferred.
  • Experience operating mills, shredders, crushers, conveyors, or similar processing equipment preferred.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work around heavy machinery in an industrial environment.
  • Ability to climb stairs/platforms and lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Willingness to work overtime and weekends as needed.
Compensation

Starting at $30.00/hour, with potential for higher starting pay based on relevant experience.

A career with Sims provides you with the opportunity to work with an organization whose goal is to be the world's safest and most responsible recycling company. Our people achieve this by creating a zero-harm workplace, being exemplary members of the communities in which we operate, and being responsible stewards of the environment. We also offer competitive pay and a range of attractive benefits.

Sims is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value the diversity of all of our employees and are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone can contribute, advance on merit, and realize their full potential. Sims does not discriminate with regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, age, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, housing status, source of income, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to any employment decision, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. qualified applicants with a disability in need of a reasonable accommodation may request such without fear of reprisal or discrimination. 

To achieve our purpose to create a world without waste to preserve our planet, we are guided by our Principles of Purpose: Be Safe + Well, Band Together, Be Accountable + Transparent, Consistently Innovate, Inspire with Purpose, Celebrate + Have Fun.