Heavy Equipment Operator

Nucor • Gastonia, NC

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Heavy Equipment Operator works for Metal Recycling Services LLC in Gastonia, North Carolina, supporting daily yard operations, material flow, and production goals. This hands-on role is performed in an outdoor industrial environment and is safety sensitive. Paid training is provided, and compensation includes base pay, weekly overtime opportunities, and production bonuses; the posting lists average annual earnings of $75,000+.

The operator uses heavy and small equipment to move and load scrap and other materials, supports production and shipping, and helps maintain a safe, orderly yard. The role requires following company and OSHA safety procedures, communicating with teammates, inspecting equipment, and assisting with general labor. Candidates must be able to work outdoors in varying weather, stand or walk for most of shifts up to 12 hours, lift up to 50 pounds, and work overtime, evenings, weekends, or holidays when needed.

Requirements

• At least 3 years of heavy equipment operation experience; scrap metal, construction, or manufacturing experience is preferred.
• Hands-on experience with cranes, loaders, or similar heavy machinery.
• Strong knowledge of heavy equipment operating principles, hazards, and safety precautions.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to identify issues and help keep equipment running properly.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to changing priorities without constant supervision.
• Ability to stand or walk for most of a shift, up to 12 hours.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Comfort working outdoors in heat and all weather conditions.
• Flexibility to work overtime, evenings, weekends, and holidays when needed.
• Must pass a hair drug test and background check.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Prior scrap metal or recycling experience.
• Residence within 50 miles of the location.

Responsibilities

• Follow company and OSHA safety procedures and participate in safety meetings.
• Initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards.
• Operate cranes, loaders, and similar heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
• Load scrap material onto shredder feed conveyors and move material throughout the yard.
• Load trucks and railcars according to production and shipping requirements.
• Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment by removing debris and assisting with yard housekeeping.
• Operate forklifts, skid steers, or other small equipment as needed.
• Communicate with teammates by radio for traffic coordination, production updates, and safety awareness.
• Assist with general labor tasks, including sweeping, shoveling, and cleanup.
• Cross-train in other positions and support teammates as needed.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance available at low cost after 30 days.
• Company-paid life and disability insurance.
• Company-matching 401(k).
• Roth accounts.
• Profit sharing.
• Pay-for-performance production bonuses.
• Paid weekly.
• Paid training.
• Paid vacation, including three weeks after one year.
• Paid holidays: 10 per year plus one personal day.
• Paid parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 per year.
• Scholarship program for teammates' children.
• Employee stock purchase plan.
• Career pathways and advancement opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed