Heavy Equipment Operator

Sims Limited; Town of Chili, Northern (NY, KY); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay and benefits

Safe work environment

Job summary

Sims Metal is seeking an Equipment Operator to safely operate front-end loaders, forklifts, bobcats, and skid steers at our North Chili, NY facility. The role includes pre‑shift inspections, routine maintenance, and assisting with material handling tasks such as loading trucks and barges.

A strong safety record and ability to work outdoors in all weather are essential. The starting pay is $25.00/hour with higher rates possible based on experience and skills.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Minimum 12 months of related experience or training.

Responsibilities

• Operate a range of equipment safely (front-end loader, forklift, bobcat, skid steer).
• Perform pre-shift and end-of-shift inspections and routine maintenance.
• Load trucks and barges, and manage material handling tasks.
• Maintain clean work areas and follow safety standards.

Skills

Safety mindset

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or GED

Valid driver's license

Tools

Front-end loader

Forklift with rotator

Bobcat

Skid steer

Job description

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Date: Sep 9, 2026

Location: North Chili, NY, US, 14514

Company: simsmetalm

Salary Range: 25

Sims Metal (Sims) is a global leader in metal recycling. With facilities across the globe, Sims plays an intrinsic role in the circular economy by making resources available for future use. As a responsible corporate citizen, we continuously seek new ways to broaden our participation in the environmental sector, ensuring that our future is as bright, safe, and secure as at any time in our long history.

Job Summary

The Equipment Operator (EO) is responsible for safely operating a variety of machinery, including a frontend loader with bucket, 12k or smaller forklift with rotator, bobcat, and skid steer. Operators must follow all Sims safety regulations and Golden Rules. This role includes completing pre-shift and end-of-shift inspections, performing routine greasing and maintenance, and maintaining both equipment and work areas.

While the title is Equipment Operator, this position is not 100% equipment-based. As with all roles at Sims, flexibility is essential. The job includes a blend of equipment operation and hands‑on labor.

Pay Rate : 25.00/hour starting rate higher rate considered based on relevant experience and skills

Major Responsibilities

Perform routine maintenance such as lubricating, fueling, and cleaning equipment.

Complete inspection reports prior to operating machinery.

Safely operate equipment under the direction of the shift supervisor or production manager.

Load trucks, pile scrap material, and load/unload barges and rail cars.

Conduct end-of-shift cleanup and equipment inspections.

Maintain clean equipment and work areas.

Sweep and shovel residual waste from processes.

Follow all safety standards and contribute to a safe work environment.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or GED.

Valid driver's license.

Minimum of 12 months of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Ability to meet the physical demands of the role; reasonable accommodations may be provided.

Preferred Experience & Skills

Previous scrap or industrial experience.

Knowledge of non-ferrous materials.

Critical thinking and adaptability.

Understanding of weights (gross, net, tare).

Prepare materials for shipment, ensuring they meet quality and specification requirements.

Load and unload trucks using bobcat or forklift.

Perform and document daily pre-start inspections.

Understand balanced loading to achieve proper axle weights.

Sort commodities to ensure materials meet specifications.

Work independently and as part of a team.

Demonstrate attention to detail and a safety-first mindset.

Work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.

Operate machinery and perform physical labor.

Lift up to 40 lbs.

Perform other duties as needed.

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. Sims does not discriminate with regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, age, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, housing status, source of income, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to any employment decision, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.qualified applicants with a disability in need of a reasonable accommodation may request such without fear of reprisal or discrimination.

To achieve our purpose to create a world without waste to preserve our planet, we are guided by our Principles of Purpose: Be Safe + Well, Band Together, Be Accountable + Transparent, Consistently Innovate, Inspire with Purpose, Celebrate + Have Fun.

Why Choose A Career with Sims?

Sims is a hub of innovation, offering employees the chance to explore new ideas and technologies while providing ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.

With a diverse workforce, Sims fosters a sense of belonging and inclusion where employees can thrive and establish lasting connections. Working at Sims offers the chance to engage with a global network, providing opportunities for travel, cross-cultural experiences, and the ability to contribute to a sustainable future. Sims is renowned as one of the world's leading sustainable companies, empowering employees to make a difference in creating a world without waste to preserve the planet.

Sims prioritizes employee wellbeing, offering superior benefits packages, meaningful training opportunities, and a supportive atmosphere where employees feel valued and heard at all levels of the organization. Sims maintains a strong focus on safety, where individuals are encouraged to challenge themselves, contribute, and support one another, in a collaborative team environment.