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Scrap Yard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scrap Yard Helper

Sayreville, NJ · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Capable of operating multiple pieces of material handling equipment used primarily in the scrap industry * Keep scrap car tracks clear of debris * Ensure equipment inspection reports are filled out ...

Scrap Yard Helper

Sayreville, NJ · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Capable of operating multiple pieces of material handling equipment used primarily in the scrap industry * Keep scrap car tracks clear of debris * Ensure equipment inspection reports are filled out ...

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Scrap Yard Worker

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$19.90 - $21.30/hr

Torch Operator * Load inspectors. * General Labor * Customer Service Heavy Equipment Operator: $22.50 must have Excavator and Front End Loader experience * Able to be a team contributor and be able ...

Communicate with yard operators and office staff throughout the day * Answer phones and help ... Previous scale house, trucking, or scrap yard experience is a plus, but not required Work ...

Description Scale Clerk - Harmon Scrap Metal About Us Harmon Scrap Metal is a fast-paced scrap yard ... Communicate with yard operators and office staff throughout the day * Answer phones and help ...

Scale Clerk

Cornersville, TN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Scale Clerk - Harmon Scrap Metal About Us Harmon Scrap Metal is a fast-paced scrap yard focused on ... Communicate with yard operators and office staff throughout the day * Answer phones and help ...

Apply Early

Previous experience operating heavy equipment required (scrap yard experience is a plus) * Ability to safely operate equipment in tight, active yard conditions * Strong awareness of surroundings and ...

Apply Early

We are seeking an experienced forklift operator to support material movement in a fast-paced metal ... Experience in scrap yard, recycling, construction, or heavy industrial setting strongly preferred

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Scrap Yard Operator information

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How much do scrap yard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 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 jobs make $1000 per hour?

Jobs that can pay $1000 per hour are typically highly specialized and include roles such as experienced surgeons, specialized anesthesiologists, certain legal or financial consultants, and top-tier executive or consulting positions. These roles often require advanced education, extensive experience, and sometimes work in high-stakes environments or on a contract basis.

What pays the most at a scrapyard?

Scrap yard operators who specialize in handling high-value materials like copper, aluminum, and precious metals tend to earn higher wages. Skills in sorting, weighing, and using tools like magnetometers or X-ray analyzers can also increase earning potential, especially in facilities that pay based on the quality and type of scrap processed.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically include high-level roles such as specialized contractors, certain sales positions, or executive-level jobs that involve significant experience, skills, or commission-based earnings. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive expertise, or working in high-demand industries like finance, consulting, or construction. Such high daily earnings are uncommon and usually involve substantial responsibility or risk.

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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Scrap Yard Operator can potentially earn around $10,000 a month with experience, strong organizational skills, and knowledge of metal prices and equipment. High earnings are often associated with overtime, management roles, or owning a scrap yard, which may require business skills but not necessarily a degree. Most roles focus on physical work, safety protocols, and equipment operation.

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 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.

More about Scrap Yard Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Scrap Yard Operator jobs? Cities with the most Scrap Yard Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scrap Yard Operator jobs? The most popular types of Scrap Yard Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Scrap Yard Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Scrap Yard Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Scrap Yard Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,677 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Scrap Yard Helper

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Commercial Metals Company rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

310th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

it's what's inside that counts
There's more to CMC than our products and the buildings, structures, and roads they go into. At CMC, it's the people inside our recycling centers, fabrication plants, manufacturing facilities, steel mills and offices that make us who we are as a company. Our success comes from finding, retaining, and supporting the highest quality talent by offering:
  • Day 1 Benefits Coverage with low cost Medical, Vision, Dental
  • Day 1 Paid-time Off and Vacation
  • 4.5% Company Match 401(k) plan
  • $500 Annual Company-paid Lifestyle Benefit
  • Starting rate @ $22.00
  • Competitive Compensation and Bonuses
  • Company-paid Life and Disability Insurance
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Training and Advancement Opportunities

Why This Job
CMC provides an excellent opportunity to learn the steel, construction reinforcement and ground stabilization industries and to grow in your career. Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running manufacturing equipment or troubleshooting technical obstacles, at CMC, you'll get the training and support from your team that you need to excel in your role and reach your full potential.
What You'll Do
  • Capable of operating multiple pieces of material handling equipment used primarily in the scrap industry
  • Keep scrap car tracks clear of debris
  • Ensure equipment inspection reports are filled out each shift
  • Offload scrap from railcars
  • Work safely to prevent on the job injuries by always following safety rules and regulations including proper wearing of company PPE
  • Responsible for daily housekeeping duties including but not limited to immediate work area

What You'll Need
  • Ability to work as a team player in a fast paced multi-discipline environment, with strong work ethic, attention to detail, organizational and listening skills
  • Ability to work with exposure to extreme temperatures, chemicals, dust fumes and mists, uneven surfaces, loud noise, elevated work areas, and confined spaces
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Some overtime will be required
  • Work on a rotating shift which may include weekends and holidays
  • Demonstrated dependability in attendance, work completion, and flexibility to meet business needs

Your Education
  • High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent experience preferred

We are CMC, a Fortune 500® company at the leading edge of our industry. Our construction reinforcement and steel products have supported construction projects and structures around the world. The secret to our success? We've built our legacy by assembling a team of innovators and doers to tackle some of the most challenging construction reinforcement problems facing our world for more than 100 years - and we're just getting started.
If you're ready to join a team working to make our industry more sustainable, support the bridges, roadways, buildings and infrastructure that connects our communities, and do meaningful work, you're ready to join CMC. Apply today and start moving your career - and our world - forward. Let's build a better world!
CMC is committed to providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, citizenship, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, or other status protected by federal, state or local law.
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