Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Beacon Recycling | Grand Rapids & Wyoming, MI

Beacon Recycling is seeking a versatile Heavy Equipment Operator to support daily operations across our Grand Rapids and Wyoming yards. This role is designed to flex between equipment operation, material processing, and scale buying support: serving as a key contributor to overall yard performance.

While not exclusively assigned to any one function, this position plays an integral role in supporting both Heavy Equipment Operators and Scale Buyers. Success in this role requires a high level of flexibility, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing operational needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Support heavy equipment operators by staging, sorting, and preparing materials for processing and shipment
• Operate equipment as needed, including material handlers, loaders, forklifts, baler, and shear
• Perform torching to cut and process scrap materials safely and efficiently
• Assist with auto processing and general material handling
• Help load trucks and railcars, ensuring proper weight distribution and material quality
• Maintain organization of yard inventory to support efficient operations
• Provide support at the scale as needed—assist with customer flow, material identification, and transaction accuracy
• Ensure accurate material coding, documentation, and communication across teams
• Maintain safe traffic flow and a clean, organized work environment
• Conduct basic equipment checks and report maintenance or safety concerns

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in scrap metal recycling, yard operations, or similar industrial environment preferred
• Ability to operate or learn to operate material handlers, loaders, forklifts, baler, and shear
• Familiarity with ferrous and non-ferrous materials (or willingness to learn)
• Experience with torching/cutting equipment preferred
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to doing things right the first time
• Ability to shift between responsibilities and support multiple functions throughout the day
• Team-oriented mindset with strong communication skills
• Safety-focused and comfortable working in a fast-paced outdoor environment
• Ability to work Saturdays as needed

Position Details

• Full-time role supporting both Grand Rapids and Wyoming yards
• Flexible, cross-functional position supporting operations, scale, and processing
• Early start times with overtime and Saturday work as needed