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Scrap Yard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I

Union City, TN · On-site

The Yard Operator requires knowledge of scrap grading, or have the ability to learn. The Yard Operator will assist in several aspects of daily operational needs such as scrap inspection, ferrous and ...

Hahl Companies, LLC

Yard Operator

Blaine, MN

$25 - $27/hr

Description The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy ... Load or unload scrap metal materials as needed * Transport and load materials from one place to ...

Dem-Con Companies

Yard Operator

Blaine, MN · On-site

The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy equipment ... Load or unload scrap metal materials as needed * Transport and load materials from one place to ...

Dem-Con Companies

Yard Operator

Blaine, MN · On-site

The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy equipment ... Load or unload scrap metal materials as needed * Transport and load materials from one place to ...

Dem-Con Companies

Yard Operator

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy equipment ... Load or unload scrap metal materials as needed * Transport and load materials from one place to ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Minot, ND · On-site

The successful candidate will have knowledge of scrap grading or the ability and willingness to learn. As a Yard Operator, you will safely operate loaders and material handling equipment, inspect ...

Misti Pett

Yard Operator

South Paris, ME · On-site

Since 1969, we've led the industry in developing innovative technologies for recycling scrap into ... daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Sikeston, MO · On-site

The Yard Operator requires knowledge of scrap grading, or have the ability to learn. The Yard Operator will assist in several aspects of daily operational needs such as scrap inspection, ferrous and ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Milan, TN · On-site

The Yard Operator requires knowledge of scrap grading, or have the ability to learn. The Yard Operator will assist in several aspects of daily operational needs such as scrap inspection, ferrous and ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Milan, TN · On-site

The Yard Operator requires knowledge of scrap grading, or have the ability to learn. The Yard Operator will assist in several aspects of daily operational needs such as scrap inspection, ferrous and ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Sikeston, MO · On-site

The Yard Operator requires knowledge of scrap grading, or have the ability to learn. The Yard Operator will assist in several aspects of daily operational needs such as scrap inspection, ferrous and ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Minot, ND · On-site

The successful candidate will have knowledge of scrap grading or the ability and willingness to learn. As a Yard Operator, you will safely operate loaders and material handling equipment, inspect ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Minot, ND · On-site

The successful candidate will have knowledge of scrap grading or the ability and willingness to learn. As a Yard Operator, you will safely operate loaders and material handling equipment, inspect ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Sikeston, MO · On-site

The Yard Operator requires knowledge of scrap grading, or have the ability to learn. The Yard Operator will assist in several aspects of daily operational needs such as scrap inspection, ferrous and ...

Nucor Corporation

Yard Operator

Rockledge, FL · On-site

$55K/yr

... daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and ... Inspect incoming scrap and vehicles, advising customers of accepted and non-accepted materials

Harmon Scrap Metal

Laborer for Scrap Yard

Columbia, TN · On-site

$18/hr

... scrap metal * Assist in buying * Operate small material handling equipment such as sit down forklift or skid steer and handheld tools * Clean and maintain work area * Assist in the yard as needed

Misti Pett

Yard Operator

South Paris, ME · On-site

Since 1969, we've led the industry in developing innovative technologies for recycling scrap into ... daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and ...

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Scrap Yard Operator information

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How much do scrap yard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for scrap yard operator in the United States is $20.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a scrap yard operator do?

A Scrap Yard Operator is responsible for sorting, processing, and managing scrap materials such as metal, plastic, and other recyclables. They operate heavy machinery, such as forklifts and shredders, to move and break down materials for recycling or resale. Safety is a key aspect of the role, requiring proper handling techniques and protective equipment. Additionally, operators may assist customers, weigh materials, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a scrap yard operator?

A Scrap Yard Operator’s daily tasks often include operating heavy machinery such as forklifts or cranes to move and sort scrap materials, inspecting loads for quality and safety, and assisting with weighing and documenting incoming and outgoing materials. You may also be responsible for maintaining equipment, ensuring yard safety protocols are followed, and communicating with drivers and customers about material drop-offs or pickups. Working closely with team members, you’ll help keep the yard organized and efficient while meeting recycling and environmental standards. These responsibilities provide hands-on experience and opportunities to develop skills for advancement to supervisory or specialized equipment roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the scrap yard operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scrap Yard Operator, you need a solid understanding of scrap material handling, equipment operation, and basic safety practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent experience. Proficiency in using forklifts, cranes, and material grading tools, as well as certifications like OSHA safety training, are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help operators stand out in fast-paced environments. These skills ensure efficient and safe yard operations, accurate sorting and processing, and effective coordination with team members and customers.

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Scrap Yard Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scrap Yard Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,677 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Scrap Yard Excavator Operator

Mid Oregon Personnel

Redmond, OR

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary
A growing scrap metal recycling facility is seeking a dependable, safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. Candidates with a minimum of one (1) year of excavator experience are strongly preferred. This position is ideal for individuals who have experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, recycling, or other heavy industrial environments and are looking to expand their skills.
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will safely operate excavators and other material handling equipment to process, sort, and move scrap metal while maintaining a productive, organized, and safety focused work environment. Qualified candidates will receive hands-on training to operate shear cranes and specialized recycling equipment.
If you enjoy operating heavy equipment, working outdoors, and being part of a hardworking team, we'd love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate an excavator to move, sort, load, and process scrap metal safely and efficiently.
  • Train to operate a shear crane and other heavy equipment used in scrap metal recycling.
  • Load, unload, organize, and transport recyclable materials throughout the yard.
  • Operate loaders, forklifts, cranes, and other material handling equipment as needed.
  • Perform daily pre-operation and post-operation equipment inspections.
  • Report equipment maintenance needs and safety concerns promptly.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA standards while working around heavy machinery.
  • Assist customers with unloading recyclable materials.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Perform general yard labor and equipment-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of one (1) year of excavator operating experience preferred.
  • Experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, scrap metal recycling, or heavy industrial environments is highly desirable.
  • Experience operating shear cranes, material handlers, loaders, forklifts, or other heavy equipment is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of equipment safety, inspections, and preventative maintenance.
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn new equipment and operating techniques.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift, move, and handle materials safely.
  • Reliable attendance, strong work ethic, and commitment to workplace safety.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented environment.

What We Offer
  • Long-term, full-time career opportunity
  • Monday–Friday daytime schedule
  • Paid on-the-job training for shear crane operation
  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution match
  • Opportunities for advancement and career growth
  • Stable, supportive, team-oriented work environment

Schedule
Monday – Friday
8am - 4:30 pm
Full-Time
Compensation
Starting Wage: $22.00–$25.00 per hour (DOE)

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