Job Overview
Scrapworks LLC is hiring a Non-Ferrous Scale Operator / Yard Processor for our Port Arthur scrapyard. This is a hands-on, do-everything role: weighing and grading non-ferrous material at the buying counter, paying out customers, sorting and processing scrap, and helping keep the yard running clean and organized.
No scrap experience required. If you've worked outdoors, run equipment, or done physical work and you show up ready to learn, we'll train you on material identification, grading, and the scale system. You'll also be trained and certified on forklift operation as part of the job.
This is an outdoor, physically demanding position with direct customer contact. Reliability, honesty, and a willingness to learn matter more here than a resume.
Key Responsibilities
Non-Ferrous Scale & Customer Service
- Weigh in and weigh out customer material; create accurate scale tickets in the yard system
- Identify and grade non-ferrous metals — copper, brass, aluminum, radiators, insulated wire, stainless, lead
- Inspect loads for contamination, attachments, and non-conforming material before purchase
- Complete required transaction documentation per Texas metal recycling law and route customers to the office for payment
- Communicate clearly and professionally with retail and peddler customers
Material Processing
- Sort, break down, and upgrade non-ferrous material to shipping grade
- Strip wire, separate attachments, and clean material to improve recovery value
- Segregate processed material by grade into correct bins, boxes, and staging areas
- Assist with packaging, loading, and staging outbound non-ferrous shipments
Yard Labor & Equipment
- Assist customers unloading vehicles and trailers
- Operate a forklift to move boxes, bins, and packaged material (training and certification provided)
- General yard cleanup, sweeping, bin organization, and housekeeping
- Support equipment operators and other yard personnel as needed
- Perform daily inspections on assigned equipment and report issues promptly
Safety
- Wear required PPE at all times and follow all facility safety rules
- Maintain awareness of moving equipment, traffic patterns, and pedestrian zones
- Report hazards, near-misses, and injuries immediately
- Participate in facility safety meetings and training
Qualifications
Required
- Basic computer and math skills — able to enter accurate scale tickets and weights
- Attention to detail and accountability for accurate grading and ticketing
- Physically able to lift and carry 70+ lbs repeatedly throughout the shift and work on uneven terrain
- Able to work outdoors in all weather — heat, cold, rain, dust
- Willingness to learn forklift operation and become certified
- Reliable attendance and dependable transportation
- Must be at least 18 years old and able to pass a background check
Preferred
- Bilingual English/Spanish — strongly preferred, this role serves customers at the scale daily
- Prior scrap metal, recycling, or metals experience
- Experience operating a forklift, skid steer, loader, or similar equipment
- Background in construction, demolition, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, landscaping, or other outdoor trades
- Prior retail or customer service experience
- Familiarity with non-ferrous grades and material identification
- OSHA 10 certification
Schedule
- Full-time, hourly (non-exempt)
- Monday–Friday and Saturday mornings, aligned to yard operating hours
- Overtime available and paid per FLSA
Compensation & Benefits
- $14.00–$18.00 per hour, based on scrap metal, equipment, or outdoor work experience
- Overtime paid per FLSA
- Forklift training and certification provided at no cost
- Health insurance (per company policy)
- 401(k) with company match (per plan terms)
- Paid time off (per company policy)
- Safety bonuses and performance incentives
- Advancement opportunities into equipment operator, scale operator, and lead roles
Why Join Scrapworks
Scrapworks Group is a growing, multi-facility scrap metal recycling operation in Southeast Texas. We run modern equipment, invest in our people, and operate with a focus on efficiency, safety, and long-term growth. This role is a real entry point — we train from the ground up and promote people who show up, learn the material, and take care of the customer.
Scrapworks LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All employment is at-will un