Yard Operator I: Scrap Yard & Safety Focus

Gerdau; Roanoke (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Benefits package

Career growth opportunities

Safety-focused environment

Job summary

Gerdau is seeking a safety-focused and motivated Yard Operator to join our team in Roanoke. In this role, you will inspect and grade scrap metal, operate material handlers, load and unload materials, and support overall site efficiency and safety.

The successful candidate will work with supervisors, scale operators, coworkers, and customers to ensure materials meet quality standards and shipping requirements.

Qualifications

• High school diploma preferred.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Follow all safety, environmental, and operational procedures at Gerdau.
• Inspect and grade incoming scrap materials for quality and environmental compliance.
• Monitor all incoming scrap through radiation detection processes and report 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.
• 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.

Skills

High school diploma preferred

Scrap yard / industrial experience

Scrap grading & inspection learning

Workplace safety commitment

Teamwork & communication

Outdoor work in varying weather

Reliability & self-motivation

Job description

Gerdau is seeking a safety-focused and motivated Yard Operator to join our team in Roanoke. In this role, you will inspect and grade scrap metal, operate material handlers, load and unload materials, and support overall site efficiency and safety.

The successful candidate will work with supervisors, scale operators, coworkers, and customers to ensure materials meet quality standards and shipping requirements.