Equipment Operator - Scrap Yard

Pacific Steel - 37 RAPID CITY; Rapid City (SD); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Pacific Steel in Rapid City, SD is seeking an Equipment Operator to safely operate heavy equipment such as shear, scrap handler, excavator, baler loader, and forklift to process recyclable materials per customer and mill specs.

You will ensure production quality, maintain a safe work environment, complete documentation, and work with supervisors and team members to keep operations efficient.

Qualifications

• Experience operating heavy equipment in an industrial, recycling, or construction environment preferred.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to perform equipment inspections.
• Strong attention to safety and operational procedures.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment to process materials safely and efficiently.
• Produce high-quality processed materials meeting specifications.
• Conduct routine inspections and basic maintenance on equipment.
• Complete required documentation accurately and timely.
• Maintain attendance and work assigned hours, including overtime if needed.
• Follow safety regulations and communicate with supervisors and team.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety-conscious

Teamwork

Independent work

Documentation

Job description

Position Summary

The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating and maintaining a variety of heavy equipment to handle, prepare, and process recyclable materials in accordance with customer and mill specifications.

This role ensures efficient production while maintaining quality standards and a safe work environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment, including but not limited to shear, scrap handler, excavator, baler loader, and forklift, to process materials efficiently and safely.
• Produce high-quality processed materials that meet or exceed customer specifications and expectations.
• Conduct routine inspections and perform basic maintenance to keep equipment in optimal working condition; report and coordinate repairs as needed.
• Complete all required documentation accurately, legibly, and on a timely basis.
• Maintain consistent attendance and work assigned hours, including overtime as needed to complete work orders.
• Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned, supporting overall operations in a safe and productive manner.
• Follow all applicable federal, state, local, company, and customer regulations and safety standards.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members to ensure smooth operations.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Utilize time efficiently and minimize material waste.
• Demonstrate accountability for personal actions and decisions.
• Interact with coworkers, customers, and vendors in a professional, respectful, and ethical manner.

Qualifications (Preferred / Required)

• Experience operating heavy equipment in an industrial, recycling, or construction environment preferred.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to perform equipment inspections.
• Strong attention to safety and operational procedures.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to frequently lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift up to 100 pounds.
• Ability to push and pull up to 80 pounds.
• Capable of performing physical activities such as gripping, squatting, bending, climbing, standing, walking, reaching, stacking, loading, and transferring materials.
• Ability to climb ladders and work at varying heights.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and moderate noise levels.