Wire Chopper Operator

Wire Chopper Operator

The Wire Chopper Operator is responsible for operating wire chopping and non-ferrous processing equipment to safely and efficiently convert insulated wire and related materials into clean, market-ready metal products. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and adherence to Radius Recycling's Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) standards.

The operator must understand the function, operation, and basic maintenance of processing equipment and support machinery. The primary goal is to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production in support of Radius Recycling's non-ferrous recovery operations.

This position offers competitive pay along with a variety of benefits including medical, dental and vision plans for both you and your dependents; 401k with company match, paid time off which starts with your first check, and paid holidays.

Essential Functions

Environmental and Health & Safety (H&S)

• Strictly adhere to all Radius Recycling HSE policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain a safe work environment for employees, customers, and visitors.
• Use applicable personal protective equipment (PPE) as required in safety sensitive areas and when performing safety sensitive tasks.

Operational Performance & Best Business Practices

• Operate wire chopping equipment, conveyors, granulators, shredders, and separation systems to process insulated wire and non-ferrous materials.
• Monitor material flow, equipment performance, and product quality; make adjustments as needed to maintain optimal throughput.
• Load and unload materials using forklifts, skid steers, or other mobile equipment.
• Identify and remove contaminants to ensure clean, high-quality output.
• Coordinate with team members to ensure smooth production flow and safe material handling.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Conduct pre-shift inspections of wire chopping equipment and mobile equipment.
• Identify and report equipment deficiencies, unusual noises, or malfunctions immediately.
• Perform basic maintenance tasks such as clearing jams, cleaning screens, and lubricating components as directed.
• Maintain clean work areas to reduce contamination and improve equipment performance.

Quality Control

• Inspect processed non-ferrous output for purity, size, and consistency.
• Adjust machine settings to maintain product quality standards.
• Document production data, quality checks, and downtime events.

Special Projects

• Perform special projects or additional duties as assigned.

Internal Control Responsibilities

Supports Internal Control process which includes understanding, communicating, and complying with defined internal controls as well as suggesting and making modifications to the policies, procedures, and controls to better match the business.

Communicates upward problems in operations, noncompliance with the code of conduct, or other policy violations or illegal actions.

Job Conditions

This position involves regular exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, dust, fumes, and moving equipment, with PPE required at all times, including safety shoes, hearing protection, respirators, and face shields. Workload may fluctuate, and employees may be required to work overtime, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Physical Activities Required to Perform Essential Functions

This role requires the ability to stand, walk on uneven ground, climb equipment, and operate machinery for extended periods, as well as lift up to 50 pounds occasionally. The position involves frequent reaching, grasping, twisting, and use of hand and foot controls, along with the visual acuity necessary to monitor equipment and inspect materials.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED.
• Experience in metals recycling, manufacturing, or industrial equipment operation preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
• Ability to operate or learn to operate forklifts, skid steers, and related mobile equipment.

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills.

All applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

Radius Recycling Industries, Inc. participates in E-Verify for all U.S. new hires.

An offer of U.S. employment by Radius Recycling Industries, Inc. or any of its subsidiaries is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen and background check.

All new hires must review and sign an Arbitration Agreement. This applies to all U.S. non-union employees.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Radius Recycling Industries, Inc. does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, marital status, disability status, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, age, prior industrial injury, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected status under local, state, or federal law.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.