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Scrap Yard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M&M Recycling

Crane Operator

Locust Grove, GA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We run a fast-paced scrap yard, and we need experienced operators who can keep it moving. If this sounds like you, we are looking for our next Crane Operator to join our team. APPLY TODAY if you want ...

Openwork

Scrap Yard Metal Sorter

Locust Grove, GA · On-site

$15/hr

SCRAP METAL EXPERIENCE A PLUS! Are you looking for a fast-paced, hands-on job where you have the ... Clean and organize work areas to maintain safety and efficiency. * Assist equipment operators and ...

PS Logistics

Mill/Yard Operator

Cofield, NC · On-site

The mill is part of Nucor Corp, the largest scrap metal recycler in North America. Minimal ... Experience operating heavy-duty forklifts (Taylor lift) is required; knowledge of yard operations ...

Commercial Metals Company

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 ...

PS Logistics

Mill/Yard Operator

Cofield, NC

The mill is part of Nucor Corp, the largest scrap metal recycler in North America. Minimal ... Experience operating heavy-duty forklifts (Taylor lift) is required; knowledge of yard operations ...

Commercial Metals Company

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 ...

Openwork

Scrap Yard Metal Sorter

Locust Grove, GA

$15/hr

SCRAP METAL EXPERIENCE A PLUS! Are you looking for a fast-paced, hands-on job where you have the ... Clean and organize work areas to maintain safety and efficiency. * Assist equipment operators and ...

Harmon Scrap Metal

Scale Clerk

Cornersville, TN · On-site

$18/hr

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 ...

Maleko Personnel

Be Seen First

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 ...

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How much do scrap yard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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 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 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.

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Scrap Yard Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scrap Yard Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,677 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Mobile Equipment Operator- Scrap Yard

Mobile Equipment Operator- Scrap Yard

Gerdau

Petersburg, VA • On-site

$73K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Gerdau rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

186th of 516 rated manufacturers

Job description

Mobile Equipment Operator
Do you love to work outdoors and drive large equipment? Are you detail-oriented and knowledgeable about mobile equipment? Do you want to work in a rugged and exciting environment? Join us as we build the future and the Gerdau We Are Creating.
$73000 / year which includes hourly pay of $21.16 hr to start and after probation increase to $22.88 hr, biweekly production bonus, shift premiums, and 354 hours of annual scheduled overtime.
We Have:
  • A strong global presence with mills that transform millions of metric tons of raw material to produce steel beams, flat-rolled steel, merchant bar, rebar, spikes, and wire used by the automotive industry, appliance, construction, machinery, and equipment industries.
  • A culture that welcomes diversity, encourages innovation and creates products that serve humanity.
  • An environment that values teamwork, safety, and sustainability.
  • A commitment to continuous improvement and the belief that we can create a better future for our employees and our global community by investing in people, processes, and technology.

We Offer:
  • Comprehensive Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision Plans - Eligible upon 1st day of hire
  • Health & Dependent Care (Flexible Spending Account)
  • 100% Matching 401K up to 6%
  • Life/Accidental Life Insurance
  • Health Advocate Services
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Career Path System and Training
  • An empowering and open culture with the opportunity to grow and create

You Have:
  • Successful completion of an entrance exam.
  • Basic computer and math skills.
  • 1-3 years manufacturing or industrial experience.
  • Flexibility to work a 12 hour rotating schedule with days, nights and two consecutive weekends a month.

Your Purpose:
You will operate all mobile equipment including loaders, man-lifts, forklifts, and cranes to transfer material in the metal scrap yard.
Your Work:
  • Perform daily preventative maintenance on vehicles and mobile equipment.
  • Perform minor mechanical repairs to mobile equipment and maintain a clean work area.
  • Visually inspect scrap for non-conformities.
  • Load scrap buckets, trucks, and railcars within safe load capacity.
  • Maintain communication with coworkers through two-way radio and hand signals.
  • Assist maintenance personnel as needed.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to climb stairs, climb ladders, reach, squat, tolerate prolonged standing/walking, balance, bend, operate mobile equipment, crawl, kneel, and push and pull objects.
  • Ability to reach, squat, and tolerate prolonged sitting.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to operate hand controls with both hands and foot pedals with both feet.
  • Ability to work in extreme weather conditions.
  • Ability to work in cramped quarters and at heights.
  • Ability to work a rotating shift schedule including days, nights and weekends.

Gerdau believes in equal employment opportunity related to all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of Gerdau that there will be no discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. All external applicants must be legally eligible to immediately work in the country of hire without current or future sponsorship.
If you are vision-impaired or have some other disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act / Accessible Canada Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to applying for employment at Gerdau, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at (866)-788-2798 or recruiting@gerdau.com

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