Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Junk Dealer

🎯 Role Definition

As a Junk Dealer, also known as a Scrap Yard Operator or Recycling Specialist, you are the backbone of our operations. You will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of recyclable materials, from customer interaction and material acquisition to sorting, processing, and preparing goods for shipment. This physically demanding yet rewarding role requires a keen ability to identify and grade various materials, operate heavy machinery safely, and provide excellent customer service. You are a key player in turning discarded items into valuable commodities, directly contributing to environmental sustainability and the efficiency of our business.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer
Warehouse Associate
Construction Worker
Demolition Crew Member

Advancement To:

Yard Manager / Operations Supervisor
Senior Scrap Buyer
Heavy Equipment Fleet Manager
Owner/Operator of an independent yard

Lateral Moves:

Heavy Equipment Operator (specialized)
Commercial CDL Driver
Welder / Fabricator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Accurately identify, sort, and grade a wide range of incoming ferrous (steel, iron) and non-ferrous (aluminum, copper, brass) scrap metals to maximize material value and meet commodity specifications.
Safely and efficiently operate heavy industrial machinery, including forklifts, skid steers, material handlers, balers, and shears to move, process, and load scrap materials.
Greet and guide customers through the selling process, providing clear instructions and excellent service to ensure a positive and efficient transaction experience.
Operate platform scales to accurately weigh customer vehicles and materials, calculating net weights and ensuring proper documentation for all transactions.
Perform routine pre-operation inspections and preventative maintenance on all assigned equipment to ensure operational safety and minimize downtime.
Diligently maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment throughout the scrap yard, adhering to all company policies and OSHA regulations.
Systematically load processed materials onto trucks and into shipping containers, ensuring proper weight distribution and securement for safe transport.
Assist in the dismantling of various items, such as automobiles, appliances, and industrial equipment, to effectively segregate valuable components and materials.
Use specialized tools, including plasma cutters, torches, and grinders, to process oversized or complex scrap metal pieces according to operational needs.
Evaluate and purchase scrap materials from residential and commercial customers, applying knowledge of current market pricing to negotiate fair and profitable transactions.
Conduct quality control checks on sorted materials to prevent contamination and ensure bales or bundles meet the stringent requirements of mills and foundries.
Unload and inspect incoming materials from various sources, identifying any hazardous or non-conforming items and handling them according to established protocols.
Collaborate with the yard supervisor and team members to meet daily production targets and operational goals in a fast-paced environment.
Document and report any safety hazards, equipment malfunctions, or operational inconsistencies to management in a timely and effective manner.
Adhere strictly to all environmental regulations and company policies regarding the handling and storage of materials, including fluids, batteries, and other potential contaminants.
Develop a comprehensive knowledge of different metal alloys and grades, continuously learning to improve sorting accuracy and material valuation.
Manage the flow of traffic within the yard, directing customers and commercial trucks to the appropriate areas for unloading and weighing.
Participate in regular inventory counts and reconciliation processes to maintain accurate records of on-hand materials.
Provide clear and concise communication with other team members via two-way radio to coordinate tasks and ensure smooth operational flow.
Maintain a high level of physical fitness and stamina to handle the manual labor aspects of the job, including lifting, carrying, and working outdoors in various weather conditions.

Secondary Functions

Assist with daily and weekly inventory counts to ensure accurate tracking of materials and supplies on-site.
Provide constructive input on yard layout and process flow improvements to enhance overall efficiency, safety, and productivity.
Act as a designated backup for scale house operations, including weighing vehicles, data entry, and processing customer payments during peak times or staff absences.
Engage actively in daily safety briefings and "toolbox talks," contributing to the continuous improvement of workplace safety culture and protocols.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Heavy Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating forklifts, skid steers, balers, and material handlers.
Metal Identification: Strong ability to distinguish between various ferrous and non-ferrous metals and alloys.
Material Grading: Knowledge of scrap metal grading standards and specifications.
Scale Operation: Experience with industrial truck scales and basic mathematical calculations for weight and payment.
Hand and Power Tool Proficiency: Skilled in the use of torches, grinders, and other dismantling tools.
Basic Mechanical Aptitude: Ability to perform routine equipment maintenance and minor repairs.
Safety Protocol Adherence: Deep understanding of OSHA regulations and workplace safety best practices.
Logistics and Loading: Competency in safely loading and securing materials for transport.
Inventory Management: Basic skills in tracking and counting physical inventory.
Computer Literacy: Ability to use basic software for transaction processing and data entry.

Soft Skills

Strong Work Ethic: Dependable, punctual, and self-motivated in a physically demanding environment.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous in sorting, grading, and ensuring a safe workspace.
Customer Service Orientation: Friendly, professional, and helpful when interacting with customers.
Negotiation and Communication: Ability to communicate clearly and negotiate prices effectively and fairly.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Works well with others to achieve shared operational goals.
Problem-Solving: Resourceful in overcoming daily operational challenges and equipment issues.
Physical Stamina: Capable of sustained physical exertion, including lifting up to 50 lbs repeatedly.
Adaptability: Flexible to work in varying weather conditions and handle a dynamic workflow.
Situational Awareness: Constantly aware of surroundings to prevent accidents in a busy industrial setting.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Vocational or Technical School Certificate in Welding, Heavy Equipment Operation, or a related trade.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Skilled Trades
Waste Management
Environmental Science

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

0-3 years of experience in a related field such as general labor, construction, manufacturing, or demolition.

Preferred:

1+ years of direct experience working in a scrap metal yard, recycling facility, or automotive salvage environment. Experience operating relevant heavy machinery is highly desirable.