Heavy Equipment Operator/Mechanic

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator – Scrap Yard
Location: Detroit, MI
Job Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our scrap metal recycling yard in Detroit. This role involves operating loaders, excavators (with grapple or magnet), and other material handling equipment to process, sort, and move scrap efficiently and safely.

Candidates with prior scrapyard, recycling, or demolition yard experience are strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment including:
• Front-end loaders
• Excavators with grapple and/or magnet
• Forklifts and yard tractors (as needed)
• Sort and process ferrous and non-ferrous materials
• Load and unload trucks, trailers, and containers
• Feed material into shear, baler, or crusher equipment (if applicable)
• Maintain safe traffic flow within the yard (trucks + equipment)
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance checks
• Follow all safety protocols and OSHA guidelines
• Keep work areas clean and organized

Required Qualifications

• 1+ year experience operating heavy equipment (loader, excavator, or similar)
• Ability to operate in tight, high-activity industrial environments
• Basic understanding of material handling and job site safety
• Reliable attendance and ability to work full shifts outdoors in all weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a scrap yard, recycling facility, or demolition site
• Experience operating:
• Grapple or magnet attachments
• Shear, baler, or car crusher equipment
• Knowledge of ferrous vs non-ferrous material sorting
• OSHA certification or safety training

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay: $XX – $XX per hour (based on experience)
• Overtime available
• Health, dental, and vision insurance (if applicable)
• Paid time off / holidays
• Opportunities for advancement

Schedule

• Full-time
• Day shift / occasional overtime (as needed)

Work Environment

• Outdoor industrial scrap yard
• Exposure to heavy equipment, moving vehicles, and scrap materials
• PPE required at all times

How to Apply

Apply via this posting or contact us directly at [phone/email]. Walk-in applications may be accepted during business hours.

We are an equal opportunity employer.

Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person