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Scrap Yard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Milan, TN

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 ...

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

Nucor

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

Nucor

Yard Operator

Rockledge, FL

$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

Nucor Steel Auburn

Yard Operator

Rockledge, FL · On-site

$55K/yr

Inspect incoming scrap and vehicles,advisingcustomers of accepted and non-accepted materials * Take material deductions asrequiredbased on inspection results * Operate forklifts and other yard ...

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

Suburban Miner Metal Recycling

Be Seen First

Non Ferrous Scale Operator/Scrap Yard Laborer

Salem, OH · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

We are looking for a dependable, hardworking individual to join our team as a Non-Ferrous Scale Operator/Scrap Yard Laborer. The primary focus of this position will be working at our non ferrous ...

Gerdau

Scrap Operation Superintendent

Midlothian, TX

The incumbent will develop standard operating procedures for the shredder, scrap yard and rail car dismantling operations; design, installation, modification and maintenance of all equipment at the ...

Gerdau

Scrap Operation Superintendent

Midlothian, TX · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

The incumbent will develop standard operating procedures for the shredder, scrap yard and rail car dismantling operations; design, installation, modification and maintenance of all equipment at the ...

Gerdau

Scrap Operation Superintendent

Midlothian, TX · On-site

The incumbent will develop standard operating procedures for the shredder, scrap yard and rail car dismantling operations; design, installation, modification and maintenance of all equipment at the ...

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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.

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Gerdau

Milan, TN

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Gerdau rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

423rd of 543 rated manufacturers

Job description

At Gerdau, we empower our people to grow, thrive, and make a difference-together. With a culture built on trust and teamwork, we offer meaningful work, continuous development, and opportunities to shape your future. We invite you to come work with us, where your contributions are valued, your voice is heard, and your career is forged with purpose

Job Summary:

The Yard Operator has a variety of duties and a broad skill set that makes this position an important part of operational needs. 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 non-ferrous purchasing, mobile equipment operation, and performing general maintenance duties.

The Yard Operator will be expected to safely operate a material handling crane or loader in order to accomplish daily tasks. They must communicate regularly with the scale, supervisor, other coworkers, and customers about the quality of material and shipping requirements.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Follow all established Gerdau Safety, Environmental, and Routine procedures specific to the yard.
  2. Work involves a variety of tasks, simple through moderately complex in nature, requiring some care to ensure correct procedures are being followed.
  3. Ensure that all incoming scrap is scanned for radiation and that all material that fails the scan is quarantined and the appropriate personnel are notified.
  4. Operate the loader and/or the material handler to assist in loading and unloading scrap material, while following the quality standards of Gerdau and the customer.
  5. Ensure that all incoming scrap inspected against quality, and environmental standards and appropriate deductions and downgrades are applied. Communicate findings with the scale in a timely manner.  
  6. Inspect and verify scrap for grade and quality. Identify deductions and downgrades.
  7. Ensure that all outbound materials meets safety and quality standards.    
  8. Perform and document daily Routine Equipment Care (REC).
  9. Detect and report faulty material, environmental hazards, safety, and/or improper operation of plant equipment or machinery; refer questionable and unusual matters to proper supervision.  Maintain work area and equipment in a clear and orderly fashion. 
  10. Provide excellent customer service.
  11. Promote and practice the core values of Gerdau.
  12. Participation in daily safety routine.

Locations with Rail:

  1. For Operations that have rail; shift full and empty cars, operate locomotive, activate switches, couple and uncouple cars, and set brakes or wheel blocks as requested, in accordance with standard operating procedures.  

Additional Responsibilities:

  1. Assist in monthly inventory counts (where applicable)
  2. Assist maintenance personnel in the performance of equipment repairs as required or directed.
  3. Operate the Baler Operation.
  4. Assist in nonferrous processing; including segregation of materials to upgrade products.  For example: Copper, Brass, Aluminum, etc.
  5. Assist co-workers in daily operational duties that are essential to the yard in terms of safety, efficiency, and profitability.
  6. Stage and remove material for torching with a material handler (where applicable).
  7. Problem solving input and contributions as required.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

Qualifications and Experience:

  1. Desire to enhance skills and knowledge to develop as a Gerdau employee
  2. Promote and practice the core values of Gerdau 
  3. High School Education preferred.
 

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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