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Scrap Yard Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

Description This position reports to scrap yard management and the melting supervisor ... Mechanical aptitude Must be able to pass a written test, face to face interview and a hands-on ...

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Vidor, TX · On-site

Scrap Yard Operator This position reports to scrap yard management and the melting supervisor ... items • Strong Mechanical aptitude • Must be able to pass a written test, face to face ...

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

$27.56 - $29.80/hr

This position reports to scrap yard management and the melting supervisor. Responsibilities include ... items • Strong Mechanical aptitude • Must be able to pass a written test, face to face ...

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

Description This position reports to scrap yard management and the melting supervisor ... Mechanical aptitude Must be able to pass a written test, face to face interview and a hands-on ...

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

$27.56 - $29.80/hr

This position reports to scrap yard management and the melting supervisor. Responsibilities include ... items • Strong Mechanical aptitude • Must be able to pass a written test, face to face ...

ALLOYS TECH INC

Assistant Yard Operator

Woodstock, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

... mechanically inclined, and have scrap yard or heavy material handling experience, we'd love to talk with you! How to Apply: Click "Apply Now" and submit your resume or brief work history. We review ...

Scrap Management Industries

Mechanic

Saint Joseph, MO · On-site

Scrap Management of Saint Joseph, Missouri is looking to hire a mechanic to assist with our fleet and scrap yard maintenance. Duties/Responsibilities: * Performs preventive maintenance inspections ...

Scrap Management Industries

Mechanic

Saint Joseph, MO · On-site

Job Type Full-time Description Scrap Management of Saint Joseph, Missouri is looking to hire a mechanic to assist with our fleet and scrap yard maintenance. Duties/Responsibilities: * Performs ...

Midwest Scrap Management Inc

Mechanic

Saint Joseph, MO · On-site

Description Scrap Management of Saint Joseph, Missouri is looking to hire a mechanic to assist with our fleet and scrap yard maintenance. Duties/Responsibilities: * Performs preventive maintenance ...

SA Recycling

Mechanic

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$22/hr

Scrap yard, large equipment metal processing area • Equipment & Tools: Yard equipment, electrical ... Mechanic Work Capacity • Sensory Demands: Hearing, vision, smell, touch and taste • Hand ...

SA Recycling

Mechanic

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Scrap yard, large equipment metal processing area • Equipment & Tools: Yard equipment, electrical ... Mechanic Work Capacity • Sensory Demands: Hearing, vision, smell, touch and taste • Hand ...

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Scrap Yard Mechanic information

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$12

$27

$38

How much do scrap yard mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for scrap yard mechanic in the United States is $27.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.84 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scrap yard mechanic?

Scrap yard mechanics are skilled technicians who inspect, repair, and maintain vehicles, machinery, and equipment found in scrap or salvage yards. They are responsible for diagnosing mechanical issues, removing usable parts for resale, and ensuring that equipment operates safely and efficiently. In addition to mechanical repairs, they may also dismantle vehicles, handle hazardous materials, and operate heavy equipment such as forklifts or cranes. Their work is essential in recycling operations, as it helps recover valuable parts and materials while minimizing environmental impact.

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

To thrive as a Scrap Yard Mechanic, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of hydraulic and diesel systems, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with experience in heavy equipment maintenance. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, welding equipment, and safety systems is crucial, and certifications like ASE or OSHA training can be advantageous. Physical stamina, problem-solving skills, and attention to safety protocols help set outstanding mechanics apart. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining equipment reliability, ensuring workplace safety, and maximizing operational efficiency in demanding scrap yard environments.

What challenges does a scrap yard mechanic face in their daily work?

Scrap Yard Mechanics often encounter challenges such as diagnosing issues with heavily used or damaged equipment, working in outdoor environments exposed to variable weather, and handling a wide variety of machinery with different ages and conditions. Safety is a top priority, as the work involves heavy lifting, hazardous materials, and operating large equipment. Staying organized and maintaining a proactive approach to preventive maintenance can help mitigate breakdowns and increase operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Scrap Yard Mechanic vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectScrap Yard MechanicAuto Body Technician
CertificationsASE certifications, mechanic licensesASE certifications, collision repair certifications
Work EnvironmentScrap yards, repair shops, industrial settingsAuto repair shops, collision centers, dealerships
Industry UsageHeavy equipment, vehicle recycling, salvageVehicle repair, collision repair, paintwork

While both roles involve vehicle repair skills, a Scrap Yard Mechanic primarily works in salvage yards handling heavy equipment and recycled vehicles, whereas an Auto Body Technician focuses on repairing vehicle exteriors and collision damage. Certifications like ASE are common for both, but their work environments and industry focus differ significantly.

What states have the most Scrap Yard Mechanic jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Scrap Yard Mechanic jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Scrap Yard Mechanic job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $56,859 per year, or $27.3 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 28 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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