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Senior Scrap Yard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Vidor, TX · On-site

Scrap Yard Operator This position reports to scrap yard management and the melting supervisor. Responsibilities include operation of locomotives, railcar movements (switching) and the operation of ...

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

$26.76/hr

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 ...

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

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 ...

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX

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 ...

Optimus Steel LLC

Scrap Yard Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

$26.76/hr

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 ...

ALLOYS TECH INC

Assistant Yard Operator

Woodstock, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

About Us Alloys Tech Inc. is a growing specialty scrap metal company in Woodstock, Illinois. We ... Position Overview We are hiring a full-time Assistant Yard Operator to support daily yard ...

Gerdau

Scrap Yard Worker

Minot, ND · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

The Yard Operator must have knowledge of scrap grading or demonstrate the ability and willingness to learn. Responsibilities include scrap inspection, ferrous and nonferrous purchasing support ...

Next Level Staffing

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1st shift Forklift Operator Scrap yard

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

The 1st Shift Forklift Operator at our scrap yard plays a critical role in efficiently moving, stacking, and organizing scrap materials using forklifts. This position requires a focus on safety and ...

M&M Recycling

Scrap Yard Buyer

Locust Grove, GA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

The Opportunity We are looking for a Non-Ferrous Scrap Yard Buyer and Small Scale Operator to join our team in Locust Grove. This role is ideal for someone with scrap metal experience who wants to ...

Apply Early

Commercial Metals

Yard Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Capable of operating multiple pieces of material handling equipment used primarily in the scrap ... Direct inbound scrap trucks to the individual bays within the scrap yard * Participate in the CMC ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Jackson, TN · On-site

The Yard Operator must have knowledge of scrap grading or demonstrate the ability and willingness to learn. Responsibilities include scrap inspection, ferrous and non-ferrous purchasing support ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Jackson, TN · On-site

The Yard Operator must have knowledge of scrap grading or demonstrate the ability and willingness to learn. Responsibilities include scrap inspection, ferrous and non-ferrous purchasing support ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Jackson, TN

The Yard Operator must have knowledge of scrap grading or demonstrate the ability and willingness to learn. Responsibilities include scrap inspection, ferrous and nonferrous purchasing support ...

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

Harmon Scrap Metal LLC

Laborer for Scrap Yard

Columbia, TN · On-site

$18 - $20/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

Apply Early

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All JobsSenior Scrap Yard Operator Jobs

Senior Scrap Yard Operator information

See salary details

$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior scrap yard operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior scrap yard operator in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Scrap Yard Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Senior Scrap Yard Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining safety standards in a busy and potentially hazardous environment, coordinating logistics for material flow, and ensuring efficient operation of heavy machinery. Effective management involves staying up-to-date with safety protocols, fostering clear communication within the team, and regularly inspecting equipment to prevent breakdowns or accidents. Building strong relationships with both team members and external partners also helps streamline operations and resolve issues quickly.

What are Senior Scrap Yard Operators?

Senior Scrap Yard Operators are experienced professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of scrap yards, including the sorting, processing, and management of scrap materials. They ensure safety protocols are followed, supervise junior staff, and coordinate the logistics of incoming and outgoing materials. Their role often involves operating heavy machinery, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Senior Scrap Yard Operators play a crucial role in maximizing efficiency and profitability within the recycling industry.

What is the difference between Senior Scrap Yard Operator vs Scrap Yard Supervisor?

AspectSenior Scrap Yard OperatorScrap Yard Supervisor
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, equipment operation licensesSame as Senior Operator, plus supervisory certifications
Work EnvironmentHands-on equipment operation, material handling, safety complianceOversees operations, manages staff, enforces safety protocols
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in scrapyards, recycling facilities, metal processing plantsUsed in larger facilities, overseeing multiple teams or shifts

The main difference is that a Senior Scrap Yard Operator focuses on hands-on equipment operation and material handling, while a Scrap Yard Supervisor manages staff and oversees overall yard operations. The Supervisor role involves more leadership and administrative responsibilities, whereas the Senior Operator emphasizes technical skills and safety compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Scrap Yard Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Scrap Yard Operator, you need strong knowledge of material handling, inventory management, and safety protocols, often supported by experience in recycling or industrial environments. Familiarity with heavy machinery operation, such as cranes and forklifts, and relevant certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for supervising teams and ensuring compliance. These skills ensure efficient operations, safe work practices, and optimal productivity in a demanding scrap yard environment.
More about Senior Scrap Yard Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Scrap Yard Operator jobs? Cities with the most Senior Scrap Yard Operator job openings:
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Senior Scrap Yard Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Scrap Yard Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 39% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $80,287 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Scrap Yard Operator

Scrap Yard Operator

Optimus Steel LLC

Vidor, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate locomotives, perform railcar movements, and use material handling equipment and overhead cranes.

  • Support scrap delivery and consumption through inspection, weighing, data entry, recordkeeping, reporting, and inventory management.

  • Load and unload materials using hydraulic material handlers and overhead cranes according to melt schedules and scrap recipes.

Job description

Scrap Yard Operator

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

• 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

Apply