Yard Operator I

Gerdau North America; Union City (TN); On-site; USD 37,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Career growth opportunities

Safety-focused environment

Sustainable future through recycling

Job summary

Gerdau North America is seeking a safety-focused Yard Operator to join our team in Union City, TN. You will inspect and grade scrap, operate mobile equipment, load and unload materials, and help keep yards organized and compliant.

The role emphasizes teamwork, outdoor work in varying weather, and commitment to safety. Prior scrap yard or heavy equipment experience is a plus, but a willingness to learn and grow with us is essential.

Qualifications

• Safety-focused candidate with emphasis on working safely in an industrial yard.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and follow procedures.
• Willingness to learn scrap grading and inspection processes.

Responsibilities

• Follow safety, environmental, and operational procedures.
• Inspect and grade incoming scrap materials for quality and compliance.
• Operate material handlers, loaders, and other equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload scrap materials according to quality and customer specs.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Skills

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Outdoor work

Communication

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Rail equipment

Baling equipment

Forklifts

Job description

At Gerdau, we empower our people to grow, thrive, and make a difference—together. With a culture built on trust and teamwork, we offer meaningful work, continuous development, and opportunities to shape your future. We invite you to come work with us, where your contributions are valued, your voice is heard, and your career is forged with purpose

Yard Operator

Job Summary

Gerdau is seeking a safety-focused and motivated Yard Operator to join our team. In this role, you will play a key part in daily yard operations by inspecting and grading scrap metal, operating mobile equipment, loading and unloading materials, and supporting overall site efficiency and safety.

The successful candidate will work closely with supervisors, scale operators, coworkers, and customers to ensure materials meet quality standards and shipping requirements. Prior scrap metal experience is an asset, but candidates with a willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Follow all Gerdau safety, environmental, and operational procedures.
• Inspect and grade incoming scrap materials for quality and environmental compliance.
• Monitor all incoming scrap through radiation detection processes and report any concerns.
• Operate material handlers, loaders, and other mobile equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load and unload scrap materials according to quality and customer specifications.
• Ensure outbound materials meet safety and quality requirements.
• Complete and document daily equipment inspections and routine equipment care.
• Identify and report equipment issues, safety hazards, and environmental concerns.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Provide excellent customer service and support daily yard operations.
• Participate in daily safety meetings and activities.

Additional Duties

• Assist with inventory counts and material tracking.
• Support maintenance activities and equipment repairs as required.
• Operate baling equipment when needed.
• Assist with non-ferrous metal processing, sorting, and upgrading materials such as copper, brass, and aluminum.
• Collaborate with team members to support safe and efficient yard operations.
• Assist with rail operations where applicable, including moving rail cars and related activities.
• Contribute ideas and solutions to improve operational efficiency and safety.

Qualifications

• High school diploma preferred.
• Previous experience in a scrap yard, recycling facility, industrial environment, or operating heavy equipment is an asset.
• Ability to learn scrap grading and inspection processes.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Reliable, self-motivated, and eager to learn and develop new skills.

Why Join Gerdau?

• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• Opportunities for career growth and development.
• Safety-focused work environment.
• Be part of a team that helps build a sustainable future through recycling and manufacturing.

Gerdau believes in equal employment opportunity related to all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of Gerdau that there will be no discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. All external applicants must be legally eligible to immediately work in the country of hire without current or future sponsorship.

If you are vision-impaired or have some other disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act / Accessible Canada Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to applying for employment at Gerdau, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at (866)-788-2798 or [e-mail]