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Yard Operative Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Work closely with yard supervisors and team members to maintain efficient workflow. Qualifications * Proven experience operating one or more machines of the following: * Straddle Carrier * Top ...

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Equipment Yard Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

We are seeking a reliable and experienced Equipment Yard Operator to assist with daily operations at our equipment rental yard. This position is responsible for safely operating, moving, organizing ...

The Yard Operator, working under direct supervision, is responsible for supporting the construction and facilities staff in completing routine projects that involve the retrieval of materials to the ...

Laydown Yard Operators

Blakely, GA · On-site

$22 - $23.75/hr

Position Summary We are seeking dependable and safety-focused Laydown Yard Operators to support operations at an outdoor electrical infrastructure laydown yard in Blakely, GA. This position is ...

Yard Operator

Caldwell, ID · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

D.P. Nicoli is looking for a Yard Operator to join our team in Boise, ID! Each day in this role brings new challenges and opportunities - from operating equipment and managing materials to ...

Position Summary We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused Laydown Yard Operator to support daily yard operations in a fast-paced outdoor environment. This role is responsible for operating ...

Yard Operator

Great Falls, MT · On-site

$20.25 - $23.62/hr

The Yard Operator will operate heavy equipment such as forklifts, telehandlers, and overhead cranes to move materials. Truck driving experience is preferred. What We Offer: * Competitive starting pay ...

Yard Operator

Spokane, WA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

P. Nicoli is looking for a Yard Operator to join our team in Spokane, WA! Each day in this role brings new challenges and opportunities - from operating equipment and managing materials to ...

Yard Operator

Spokane, WA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

P. Nicoli is looking for a Yard Operator to join our team in Spokane, WA! Each day in this role brings new challenges and opportunities -- from operating equipment and managing materials to ...

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Yard Operative information

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$9

$17

$23

How much do yard operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard operative in the United States is $17.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Yard Operative, you typically need basic literacy and numeracy skills, physical fitness, and familiarity with health and safety regulations. Experience with forklifts, pallet trucks, and inventory management systems, plus relevant certifications like a forklift license, are often required. Strong teamwork, communication, and attention to detail help you excel in a busy yard environment. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure efficient operations, workplace safety, and accuracy in handling goods.

What are some typical challenges faced by Yard Operatives, and how can they be managed effectively?

Yard Operatives often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment, working outdoors in varying weather conditions, and ensuring the safe handling of heavy equipment and materials. To manage these effectively, it’s important to prioritize safety protocols, maintain clear communication with team members, and stay organized to handle workflow efficiently. Many companies offer training and support to help operatives develop these skills, making it easier to adapt and succeed in the role.

What is the difference between Yard Operative vs Warehouse Operative?

AspectYard OperativeWarehouse Operative
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications requiredOften requires basic health & safety training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor yard, open space, often in logistics or construction sitesIndoor warehouse, storage facilities
Employer & IndustryLogistics, construction, manufacturingRetail, distribution, manufacturing
Common TasksLoading/unloading, yard maintenance, vehicle movementPicking, packing, inventory management

While both roles involve physical work and logistics, Yard Operatives primarily work outdoors managing yard activities, whereas Warehouse Operatives work indoors handling stock and order processing. The choice depends on your preferred environment and specific skills.

What are yard operatives?

Yard operatives are workers responsible for maintaining the organization, safety, and efficiency of outdoor storage areas such as warehouses, distribution centers, or construction sites. Their duties typically include loading and unloading goods, operating machinery like forklifts, keeping the yard tidy, and ensuring materials are stored correctly. They play a vital role in the smooth movement of goods and materials, often collaborating with drivers, warehouse staff, and supervisors. The job may require physical labor, attention to detail, and adherence to health and safety guidelines.
More about Yard Operative jobs
What states have the most Yard Operative jobs? States with the most job openings for Yard Operative jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Yard Operative jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Yard Operative jobs are:
Infographic showing various Yard Operative job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,821 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
YARD OPERATOR I

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago


Gerdau rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

393rd of 528 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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