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Scrap Yard Worker 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 ... Requirements Requirements High School diploma/GED 2+ years working in an industrial environment ...

Maleko Personnel

Be Seen First

Scrap Yard Worker

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$19.90 - $21.30/hr

Maleko Personnel, Inc. has partnered with a Top Metal Recycling company that services the Wasatch Front . We are looking for Team Members to join the team! Pay Rate: $ 19.90 - $ 21.30 Shifts: Day ...

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Vidor, TX · On-site

Scrap Yard Operator This position reports to scrap yard management and the melting supervisor ... Requirements • High School diploma/GED • 2+ years working in an industrial environment • ...

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 ... Requirements Requirements • High School diploma/GED • 2+ years working in an industrial ...

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

Description This position reports to scrap yard management and the melting supervisor ... Requirements Requirements High School diploma/GED 2+ years working in an industrial environment ...

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 ... Requirements Requirements • High School diploma/GED • 2+ years working in an industrial ...

M&M Recycling

Scrap Yard Buyer

Locust Grove, GA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Scrap Yard Buyer Company Overview M&M Recycling is a well-established scrap metal recycling company ... If you enjoy hands-on work, working outdoors, and being part of a tight-knit team, this is a strong ...

M&M Recycling

Scrap Yard Buyer (Non-Ferrous)

Austell, GA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Scrap Yard Buyer Company Overview M&M Recycling is a well-established scrap metal recycling company ... If you enjoy hands-on work, working outdoors, and being part of a tight-knit team, this is a strong ...

M&M Recycling

Scrap Yard Buyer (Non-Ferrous)

Austell, GA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Scrap Yard Buyer Company Overview M&M Recycling is a well-established scrap metal recycling company ... If you enjoy hands-on work, working outdoors, and being part of a tight-knit team, this is a strong ...

Harmon Scrap Metal

Laborer for Scrap Yard

Columbia, TN · On-site

$18/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Join the Harmon Scrap Metal team in Columbia, Tn. POSITION SUMMARY ... Must wear all necessary PPE while working or while in the yard * Follows company safety standards ...

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Scrap Yard Worker information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do scrap yard worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for scrap yard worker in the United States is $17.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a scrap yard worker do?

A scrap yard worker is responsible for sorting, processing, and managing recyclable materials such as metal, electronics, and other salvageable items. They often operate machinery to break down large items, ensure materials are separated correctly, and maintain safety standards in the yard. Scrap yard workers may also assist customers with unloading materials and ensure that hazardous items are handled properly. Their work helps recycle valuable resources and reduce environmental waste.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scrap yard worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scrap Yard Worker, you need a basic understanding of material handling, physical fitness, and safety awareness, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with forklifts, cranes, scales, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining workplace safety, efficiently sorting materials, and ensuring smooth yard operations.

What are some common safety challenges faced by scrap yard workers, and how are they typically addressed?

Scrap Yard Workers often encounter safety challenges such as handling sharp materials, operating heavy machinery, and exposure to hazardous substances. To address these risks, scrap yards implement strict safety protocols, provide personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, helmets, and steel-toed boots, and offer regular safety training. Workers are also encouraged to follow proper procedures when sorting and moving materials, and to report any unsafe conditions immediately. These measures help create a safer work environment and minimize accidents.

What is the difference between Scrap Yard Worker vs Recycle Plant Worker?

AspectScrap Yard WorkerRecycle Plant Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety certificationsHigh school diploma; safety and equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor scrapyards, industrial settingsIndoor recycling facilities, processing plants
Industry UsageScrap metal, automotive, construction materialsPlastic, paper, electronic waste processing

Scrap Yard Workers primarily handle scrap metal and operate in outdoor scrapyards, focusing on sorting and loading materials. Recycle Plant Workers operate in indoor facilities, processing various recyclable materials. Both roles require safety certifications and involve manual labor, but they differ in environment and material focus.

How much do scrap yard workers make?

Scrap yard workers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of tasks. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while experienced workers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Overtime and benefits can also affect overall compensation.
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Scrap Yard Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Scrap Yard Worker job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 71% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,156 per year, or $17.4 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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