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Scrap Yard Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

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.

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Vidor, TX · On-site

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.

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

$27.56 - $29.80/hr

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.

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

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.

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

$27.56 - $29.80/hr

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.

NLMK

Scrap Yard Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

Scrap Yard Operator Job Summary: The Scrap Yard Operator is responsible for the operation of the Scale House as well as the proper receiving, accounting and inspection of all raw material products ...

Nlmk

Scrap Yard Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

The Scrap Yard Operator is responsible for the operation of the Scale House as well as the proper receiving, accounting and inspection of all raw material products delivered to NLMK Indiana's Scrap ...

Radius Recycling

Crane Operator

Winchester, KY · On-site

Crane Operator The Crane Operator reports to the Terminal Operations Manager, or the Shredder ... scrap yard. Safety shoes, hearing protection, respirators, and face shields must be worn to ...

Radius Recycling

Crane Operator

Concord, NH · On-site

Crane Operator The Crane Operator reports to the Terminal Operations Manager, or the Shredder ... scrap yard. Safety shoes, hearing protection, respirators, and face shields must be worn to ...

Radius Recycling

Crane Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

Crane Operator The Crane Operator reports to the Terminal Operations Manager, or the Shredder ... scrap yard. Safety shoes, hearing protection, respirators, and face shields must be worn to ...

Charter Manufacturing Company

Crane Operator

Niles, OH · On-site

Join our team as a Scrap Crane Operator and play a key role in keeping yard operations running efficiently. In this position, you will be responsible for sorting scrap materials, loading trucks and ...

Charter Manufacturing

Crane Operator

Niles, OH · On-site

Scrap Crane Operator Join our team as a Scrap Crane Operator and play a key role in keeping yard operations running efficiently. In this position, you will be responsible for sorting scrap materials ...

Radius Recycling

Crane Operator

Portland, ME · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Crane Operator Compensation: $24-$27 per hour The Crane Operator reports to the Terminal Operations ... scrap yard. Safety shoes, hearing protection, respirators, and face shields must be worn to ...

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Scrap Yard Crane Operator information

See salary details

$14

$28

$40

How much do scrap yard crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for scrap yard crane operator in the United States is $28.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a scrap yard crane operator do?

A scrap yard crane operator is responsible for operating large cranes to move, sort, and load scrap metal and other materials in a recycling or scrap yard environment. They use specialized equipment, such as magnet or grapple attachments, to safely handle heavy and irregular items. Operators must be attentive to safety protocols, follow instructions from supervisors, and perform routine equipment inspections to ensure everything is functioning properly. Their role is crucial for maintaining efficient operations and supporting recycling efforts.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a scrap yard crane operator?

To thrive as a Scrap Yard Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, spatial awareness, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and OSHA or equipment-specific certifications. Familiarity with hydraulic and magnetic crane systems, load monitoring devices, and site management software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient material handling, minimize workplace accidents, and promote smooth yard operations.

What are common safety challenges for scrap yard crane operators, and how are they addressed?

Scrap Yard Crane Operators often work in busy, unpredictable environments where safety is paramount due to the presence of heavy machinery, sharp materials, and moving vehicles. Common challenges include maintaining clear visibility, safely maneuvering large loads, and staying alert to the activities of ground personnel. Operators typically address these challenges by following strict safety protocols, participating in regular training sessions, and maintaining constant communication with team members. Most scrap yards also enforce the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and conduct routine equipment inspections to minimize risks.

What is the difference between Scrap Yard Crane Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectScrap Yard Crane OperatorForklift Operator
CertificationsCrane operation license, OSHA certificationForklift certification, OSHA certification
Work EnvironmentScrap yards, industrial sites, heavy liftingWarehouses, manufacturing plants, loading docks
Job DutiesOperate cranes to move large scrap materialsOperate forklifts to move pallets and goods

Both roles require OSHA certification and involve material handling, but Scrap Yard Crane Operators focus on operating cranes in scrap yards, handling heavy and bulky materials, while Forklift Operators typically work in warehouses moving smaller loads. The choice depends on the work environment and specific equipment used.

How much are scrap yard crane operators paid?

Scrap yard crane operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, and some positions may offer overtime pay or benefits.

Is 40 too old to become a scrap yard crane operator?

Age is generally not a barrier to becoming a scrap yard crane operator, as the role primarily requires physical ability, proper training, and certification. Many employers value experience and skills over age, and individuals in their 40s can successfully perform the job with the necessary safety training and physical fitness.

What cities are hiring for Scrap Yard Crane Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Scrap Yard Crane Operator job openings:

What states have the most Scrap Yard Crane Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Scrap Yard Crane Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Scrap Yard Crane Operator jobs?

For Scrap Yard Crane Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Scrap Yard Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,350 per year, or $28.1 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 29 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

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