Equipment Operator

Equipment Operator

The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment used in the receipt, movement, processing, loading, and shipment of scrap metal and recyclable materials. This role operates equipment including cranes, front-end loaders, forklifts, skid steers, and other mobile equipment while maintaining compliance with all safety, environmental, and operational standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate cranes, front-end loaders, forklifts, skid steers, and other material-handling equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload inbound and outbound scrap metal, recycled materials, containers, railcars, and trucks.
• Sort, move, stockpile, and stage materials according to operational requirements.
• Feed processing equipment and maintain material flow throughout the yard.
• Inspect equipment before and after each shift and complete required inspection reports.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance, including fueling, lubrication, cleaning, and routine equipment checks.
• Identify and report equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, and maintenance needs.
• Follow all company safety policies, environmental regulations, and OSHA requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Assist with general yard operations as needed.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, scale operators, drivers, and other team members.
• Support inventory control and material tracking processes.
• Respond to changing operational priorities and production demands.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience operating one or more of the following: Material handlers/cranes, front-end loaders, forklifts, skid steers, excavators or similar heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of safe equipment operating practices.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced industrial or recycling environment.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Frequent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, and entering/exiting equipment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work around heavy machinery, moving equipment, noise, and scrap materials.

Preferred Skills:

• Scrap metal, recycling, steel, manufacturing, port, terminal, or industrial yard experience.
• Mobile equipment certifications.
• Crane or material handler experience.
• OSHA or industrial safety training.
• Experience loading trucks, containers, or railcars.

Core Competencies:

• Safety First Mindset
• Equipment Operation
• Situational Awareness
• Teamwork
• Dependability
• Quality & Productivity
• Attention to Detail

A career with Sims provides you with the opportunity to work with an organization whose goal is to be the world's safest and most responsible recycling company. Our people achieve this by creating a zero-harm workplace, being exemplary members of the communities in which we operate, and being responsible stewards of the environment. We also offer competitive pay and a range of attractive benefits. Sims is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value the diversity of all of our employees and are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone can contribute, advance on merit, and realize their full potential.