ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Yard Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

padnos

Yard Associate - Recycling Centers

Dowagiac, MI

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Yard Associate - Recycling Centers Overview The Yard Associate interacts with customers while ... Sort, process and inventory material (Non- Ferrous Metals) by operating shears, balers, loaders and ...

Ritchie Bros.

Yard Attendant

Byron Center, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

... yard managers and operators to administrative staff and customer service representatives. First, let us double-check: All candidates must have a high school diploma (or equivalent). There are ...

Chet's Rent-All

Yard Associate

Novi, MI

$17 - $20/hr

Rental Yard Associate Chet's Rent-All is a family-owned, equipment and tool rental company serving ... Provide excellent customer service and explain safe operating procedures to customers. * Perform ...

Chet's Rent-All

Yard Associate

Rochester Hills, MI

$17 - $20/hr

Rental Yard Associate Chet's Rent-All is a family-owned, equipment and tool rental company serving ... Provide excellent customer service and explain safe operating procedures to customers. * Perform ...

Padnos

Yard Associate - Recycling Centers

Dowagiac, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Yard Associate - Recycling Centers Overview The Yard Associate interacts with customers while ... Sort, process and inventory material (Non- Ferrous Metals) by operating shears, balers, loaders and ...

EquipmentShare

Yard Technician

Detroit, MI

$16 - $19.25/hr

Maintain equipment inventory systems according to standard operating procedures * Serve as responsible for general yard and shop cleanup in accordance with company standards * Maintain a safe and ...

EquipmentShare

Yard Technician

Detroit, MI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Maintain equipment inventory systems according to standard operating procedures * Serve as responsible for general yard and shop cleanup in accordance with company standards * Maintain a safe and ...

Chet's Rent-All

Rental Yard Associate

Brighton, MI · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Rental Yard Associate. Chet's Rent-All is a family-owned , equipment and tool rental company ... Provide excellent customer service and explain safe operating procedures to customers. * Perform ...

Builders FirstSource

Yard Worker

Clinton, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

PURPOSE Under direct supervision performs a variety of yard activities including operating a forklift to move product and material throughout the yard. Provides customer service to customers.

Chet's Rent-All

Rental Yard Associate

Novi, MI · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Rental Yard Associate Chet's Rent-All is a family-owned, equipment and tool rental company serving ... Provide excellent customer service and explain safe operating procedures to customers. * Perform ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsYard Operator JobsYard Operator Jobs in Michigan

Yard Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$17

$21

How much do yard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard operator in Michigan is $17.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges yard operators face, and how can they be managed?

Yard Operators often work in fast-paced environments where managing multiple tasks—such as coordinating vehicle movements, ensuring safety protocols, and handling weather-related complications—can be challenging. Effective communication with dispatchers, drivers, and warehouse staff is essential for smooth operations. Staying organized, maintaining attention to detail, and adhering strictly to safety guidelines help manage these challenges and contribute to an efficient yard operation.

What is a yard operator?

A Yard Operator is responsible for managing the movement, storage, and organization of materials, vehicles, or equipment within a facility's yard or storage area. They typically operate heavy machinery such as forklifts, cranes, or yard trucks to load, unload, and relocate items safely and efficiently. Yard Operators also inspect equipment, maintain inventory records, and ensure compliance with safety protocols. This role is essential in industries like logistics, shipping, construction, and manufacturing, where efficient yard management directly impacts overall operations.

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

To thrive as a Yard Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, strong mechanical aptitude, and experience with material handling or heavy equipment operation. Familiarity with forklifts, cranes, inventory management systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure operational efficiency, workplace safety, and accurate material handling within busy yard environments.

What is the difference between Yard Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectYard OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and safety certificationsRequires similar certifications, often including specific equipment licenses
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly outdoors in yards, warehouses, or storage facilitiesOperates machinery outdoors or on construction sites
Industry UsageCommon in logistics, shipping, and warehousing industriesCommon in construction, mining, and heavy industry
Job FocusManaging yard activities, organizing shipments, and equipment movementOperating heavy machinery like forklifts, bulldozers, or cranes

While both Yard Operators and Equipment Operators work outdoors and require safety certifications, Yard Operators focus on managing yard activities and logistics, whereas Equipment Operators specialize in operating heavy machinery. The roles often overlap in industries like logistics and construction, but their primary responsibilities differ.

What are popular job titles related to Yard Operator jobs in MI? For Yard Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Yard Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Yard Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,197 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Yard Associate - Recycling Centers

padnos

Dowagiac, MI

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Padnos rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 89 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Position Overview

Title: Yard Associate – Recycling Centers

 

Overview 

The Yard Associate interacts with customers while inspecting various grades of material upon delivery into the yard.  Sort and upgrade materials to meet quality standards per established protocols.  Operate small equipment as needed to process and prepare material prior to shipment.

 

Accountabilities

  • Sort, process and inventory material (Non- Ferrous Metals) by operating shears, balers, loaders and forklifts.
  • Assist with the purchasing various grades of material from customers.
  • Assist customers with the unloading of their material.
  • Assist with the packing and loading of material prior to shipment.
  • Operate crane as necessary to provide overflow coverage.
  • Support staff when needed.
  • Conduct regular housekeeping.
  • Process cars.

 

Qualifications 

  • Six months operating small equipment experience preferred.
  • Equipment operation and preventative maintenance knowledge.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Good interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Accuracy in operation and attention to detail.
  • Knowledge in inventory control.

PADNOS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, weight, height, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, age, genetic medical information, protected veteran status, or disability status. 

What Padnos employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply