YARD OPERATOR I
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
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 ...
YARD OPERATOR I
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
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 ...
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
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
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$1.5K/mo
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 ...
Yard Operator
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$1.5K/mo
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 ...
Yard Operator
Bloomington, MN · On-site
$25 - $34/hr
Ziegler CAT has an opening for a full-time Yard Operator. We are looking for an employee to oversee the equipment entering and leaving the yard, ensure efficient and safe processes are being followed ...
Yard Operator
Bloomington, MN · On-site
$25 - $34/hr
Ziegler CAT has an opening for a full-time Yard Operator. We are looking for an employee to oversee the equipment entering and leaving the yard, ensure efficient and safe processes are being followed ...
Yard Operator
South Paris, ME · On-site
As a Production teammate, you'll support daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and maintaining a safe, efficient worksite. Your work directly impacts ...
Yard Operator
South Paris, ME · On-site
As a Production teammate, you'll support daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and maintaining a safe, efficient worksite. Your work directly impacts ...
YARD OPERATOR I
Union City, TN · On-site
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 ...
YARD OPERATOR I
Union City, TN · On-site
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 ...
Yard Operator
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$1.5K/mo
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 ...
Yard Operator
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$1.5K/mo
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 ...
Yard Operator
Belle Fourche, SD · On-site
$20 - $21/hr
Practice proper forklift and yard vehicle operation and preventive maintenance * Daily check all inventory transactions from the material handlers * Maintain and build job skills through company ...
Yard Operator
Belle Fourche, SD · On-site
$20 - $21/hr
Practice proper forklift and yard vehicle operation and preventive maintenance * Daily check all inventory transactions from the material handlers * Maintain and build job skills through company ...
Yard Operator
Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$25 - $34/hr
Ziegler CAT has an opening for a full-time Yard Operator. We are looking for an employee to oversee the equipment entering and leaving the yard, ensure efficient and safe processes are being followed ...
Yard Operator
Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$25 - $34/hr
Ziegler CAT has an opening for a full-time Yard Operator. We are looking for an employee to oversee the equipment entering and leaving the yard, ensure efficient and safe processes are being followed ...
YARD OPERATOR I - MR
Milan, TN · On-site
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 ...
YARD OPERATOR I - MR
Milan, TN · On-site
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 ...
Yard Operator
Rockledge, FL · On-site
$55K/yr
As a Production teammate, you'll support daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and maintaining a safe, efficient worksite. Your work directly impacts ...
Yard Operator
Rockledge, FL · On-site
$55K/yr
As a Production teammate, you'll support daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and maintaining a safe, efficient worksite. Your work directly impacts ...
Yard Operator
Rockledge, FL · On-site
$55K/yr
As a Production teammate, you'll support daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and maintaining a safe, efficient worksite. Your work directly impacts ...
Yard Operator
Rockledge, FL · On-site
$55K/yr
As a Production teammate, you'll support daily yard operations by handling material, assisting customers, operating equipment, and maintaining a safe, efficient worksite. Your work directly impacts ...
Yard Operator
Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$25 - $34/hr
Ziegler CAT has an opening for a full-time Yard Operator. We are looking for an employee to oversee the equipment entering and leaving the yard, ensure efficient and safe processes are being followed ...
Yard Operator
Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$25 - $34/hr
Ziegler CAT has an opening for a full-time Yard Operator. We are looking for an employee to oversee the equipment entering and leaving the yard, ensure efficient and safe processes are being followed ...
Be Seen First
Yard Operator
Tampa, FL · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
Mobile Staff Solutions is NOW HIRING Yard Operators in the Tampa area. This is a temporary to permanent position. POSITION SUMMARY: The primary job responsibilities include operating up to 50 Ton ...
Quick apply
Be Seen First
Yard Operator
Tampa, FL · On-site
$18 - $20/hr
Mobile Staff Solutions is NOW HIRING Yard Operators in the Tampa area. This is a temporary to permanent position. POSITION SUMMARY: The primary job responsibilities include operating up to 50 Ton ...
Yard Operator
Blaine, MN · On-site
$25 - $27/hr
Description The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy equipment, light equipment to load, unload and process scrap materials. In addition, the equipment ...
New
Yard Operator
Blaine, MN · On-site
$25 - $27/hr
Description The Yard Operator performs a variety of duties and is responsible for operating; heavy equipment, light equipment to load, unload and process scrap materials. In addition, the equipment ...
New
YARD OPERATOR I - MR
Minot, ND · On-site
As a Yard Operator, you will safely operate loaders and material handling equipment, inspect incoming and outgoing materials, maintain operational standards, and provide exceptional customer service ...
YARD OPERATOR I - MR
Minot, ND · On-site
As a Yard Operator, you will safely operate loaders and material handling equipment, inspect incoming and outgoing materials, maintain operational standards, and provide exceptional customer service ...
The Yard Operator will support daily operations by maintaining a safe and organized yard, managing material inventory, and assisting with morning crew load-outs. This role is essential to ensuring ...
The Yard Operator will support daily operations by maintaining a safe and organized yard, managing material inventory, and assisting with morning crew load-outs. This role is essential to ensuring ...
The Yard Operator will support daily operations by maintaining a safe and organized yard, managing material inventory, and assisting with morning crew load-outs. This role is essential to ensuring ...
Quick apply
The Yard Operator will support daily operations by maintaining a safe and organized yard, managing material inventory, and assisting with morning crew load-outs. This role is essential to ensuring ...
YARD OPERATOR I - MR
Milan, TN · On-site
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 ...
YARD OPERATOR I - MR
Milan, TN · On-site
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 ...
Yard Operator
Appling, GA · On-site
... the yard. PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Using large equipment (tow truck, trailers ... Ensures that all equipment in use has been inspected and is in safe operating condition. Reports ...
Yard Operator
Appling, GA · On-site
... the yard. PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Using large equipment (tow truck, trailers ... Ensures that all equipment in use has been inspected and is in safe operating condition. Reports ...
Yard Operator information
See salary details
$13.22 - $14.29
3% of jobs
$14.29 - $15.36
4% of jobs
$15.36 - $16.43
4% of jobs
$16.43 - $17.50
7% of jobs
$18.35 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$17.50 - $18.58
7% of jobs
$18.58 - $19.65
18% of jobs
The median wage is $20 / hr.
$19.65 - $20.72
16% of jobs
$20.72 - $21.79
12% of jobs
$22.03 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$21.79 - $22.86
12% of jobs
$22.86 - $23.93
4% of jobs
$23.93 - $25
12% of jobs
$13
$20
$25
How much do yard operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for yard operator in the United States is $20.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $23.08 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?
| Aspect | Yard Operator | Equipment Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires a high school diploma and safety certifications | Requires similar certifications, often including specific equipment licenses |
| Work Environment | Works mainly outdoors in yards, warehouses, or storage facilities | Operates machinery outdoors or on construction sites |
| Industry Usage | Common in logistics, shipping, and warehousing industries | Common in construction, mining, and heavy industry |
| Job Focus | Managing yard activities, organizing shipments, and equipment movement | Operating 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.
More about Yard Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Yard Operator jobs? Cities with the most Yard Operator job openings:
What states have the most Yard Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Yard Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Yard Operator jobs? For Yard Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Gerdau rating
6.9
Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
412th of 536 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:
Locations with Rail:
Additional Responsibilities:
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:
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
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:
- Follow all established Gerdau Safety, Environmental, and Routine procedures specific to the yard.
- Work involves a variety of tasks, simple through moderately complex in nature, requiring some care to ensure correct procedures are being followed.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Inspect and verify scrap for grade and quality. Identify deductions and downgrades.
- Ensure that all outbound materials meets safety and quality standards.
- Perform and document daily Routine Equipment Care (REC).
- 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.
- Provide excellent customer service.
- Promote and practice the core values of Gerdau.
- Participation in daily safety routine.
Locations with Rail:
- 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:
- Assist in monthly inventory counts (where applicable)
- Assist maintenance personnel in the performance of equipment repairs as required or directed.
- Operate the Baler Operation.
- Assist in nonferrous processing; including segregation of materials to upgrade products. For example: Copper, Brass, Aluminum, etc.
- Assist co-workers in daily operational duties that are essential to the yard in terms of safety, efficiency, and profitability.
- Stage and remove material for torching with a material handler (where applicable).
- 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:
- Desire to enhance skills and knowledge to develop as a Gerdau employee
- Promote and practice the core values of Gerdau
- 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
About Gerdau
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Mining of natural resources
Company size
5,001 - 10,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Tampa, FL, US