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Senior Scrap Yard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Hahl Companies, LLC

Yard Operator

Blaine, MN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Description The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy ... Load or unload scrap metal materials as needed * Transport and load materials from one place to ...

Dem-Con Companies

Yard Operator

Blaine, MN · On-site

The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy equipment ... Load or unload scrap metal materials as needed * Transport and load materials from one place to ...

Dem-Con Companies

Yard Operator

Blaine, MN · On-site

The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy equipment ... Load or unload scrap metal materials as needed * Transport and load materials from one place to ...

Dem-Con Companies

Yard Operator

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy equipment ... Load or unload scrap metal materials as needed * Transport and load materials from one place to ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Minot, ND · On-site

The successful candidate will have knowledge of scrap grading or the ability and willingness to learn. As a Yard Operator, you will safely operate loaders and material handling equipment, inspect ...

Misti Pett

Yard Operator

South Paris, ME · On-site

Since 1969, we've led the industry in developing innovative technologies for recycling scrap into ... daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Sikeston, MO · 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

Milan, 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

Milan, 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

Sikeston, MO · 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

Minot, ND · On-site

The successful candidate will have knowledge of scrap grading or the ability and willingness to learn. As a Yard Operator, you will safely operate loaders and material handling equipment, inspect ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Minot, ND · On-site

The successful candidate will have knowledge of scrap grading or the ability and willingness to learn. As a Yard Operator, you will safely operate loaders and material handling equipment, inspect ...

Gerdau

YARD OPERATOR I - MR

Sikeston, MO · 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 ...

Nucor Corporation

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

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

Misti Pett

Yard Operator

South Paris, ME · On-site

Since 1969, we've led the industry in developing innovative technologies for recycling scrap into ... daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and ...

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Showing results 21-40

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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 Aug 21, 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 is a senior scrap yard operator?

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 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.

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 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.

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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 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 $80,287 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Scrap Yard Excavator Operator

Mid Oregon Personnel

Redmond, OR

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary
A growing scrap metal recycling facility is seeking a dependable, safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. Candidates with a minimum of one (1) year of excavator experience are strongly preferred. This position is ideal for individuals who have experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, recycling, or other heavy industrial environments and are looking to expand their skills.
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will safely operate excavators and other material handling equipment to process, sort, and move scrap metal while maintaining a productive, organized, and safety focused work environment. Qualified candidates will receive hands-on training to operate shear cranes and specialized recycling equipment.
If you enjoy operating heavy equipment, working outdoors, and being part of a hardworking team, we'd love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate an excavator to move, sort, load, and process scrap metal safely and efficiently.
  • Train to operate a shear crane and other heavy equipment used in scrap metal recycling.
  • Load, unload, organize, and transport recyclable materials throughout the yard.
  • Operate loaders, forklifts, cranes, and other material handling equipment as needed.
  • Perform daily pre-operation and post-operation equipment inspections.
  • Report equipment maintenance needs and safety concerns promptly.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA standards while working around heavy machinery.
  • Assist customers with unloading recyclable materials.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Perform general yard labor and equipment-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of one (1) year of excavator operating experience preferred.
  • Experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, scrap metal recycling, or heavy industrial environments is highly desirable.
  • Experience operating shear cranes, material handlers, loaders, forklifts, or other heavy equipment is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of equipment safety, inspections, and preventative maintenance.
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn new equipment and operating techniques.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift, move, and handle materials safely.
  • Reliable attendance, strong work ethic, and commitment to workplace safety.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented environment.

What We Offer
  • Long-term, full-time career opportunity
  • Monday–Friday daytime schedule
  • Paid on-the-job training for shear crane operation
  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution match
  • Opportunities for advancement and career growth
  • Stable, supportive, team-oriented work environment

Schedule
Monday – Friday
8am - 4:30 pm
Full-Time
Compensation
Starting Wage: $22.00–$25.00 per hour (DOE)

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