Find Jobs
Find Jobs Near You – Available Work in Your Location
Skip to job details
G
Gerdau
Yard Operator
Career Insights for Operating Engineer / Heavy Equipment Operator
See where this job fits in the broader career landscape. Knowing your career path helps you see what's possible from here.
Scorecard
Based on North Dakota data
Review key factors to help you decide if this role fits your goals. How is this calculated?
What they do
An Operating Engineer or Heavy Equipment Operator drives and operates heavy equipment used in quarries, construction sites, landfills, refuse and recycling centers, or ports. Heavy Equipment may include, but is not limited to, bulldozers, excavators, paving equipment and pile drivers.
$61,886 / year median in North Dakota
+12% projected growth
Job Description
Company Overview Gerdau is a global leader in sustainable steel production, renowned for its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. With over a century of experience, we produce millions of tons of long and special steel annually and are among the largest recyclers in the industry. Our mission is to empower people who build the future, fostering growth and development for our team members and communities alike. Yard OperatorJob Summary Gerdau is seeking a motivated and safety-focused Yard Operator to join our operations team. This role is critical to the daily success of our yard operations and requires a versatile individual who can perform a variety of tasks related to scrap inspection, material handling, purchasing support, and equipment operation. The successful candidate will have knowledge of scrap grading or the ability and willingness to learn. As a Yard Operator, you will safely operate loaders and material handling equipment, inspect incoming and outgoing materials, maintain operational standards, and provide exceptional customer service while supporting Gerdau's commitment to safety, quality, and environmental responsibility. Key ResponsibilitiesSafety & Compliance Follow all established Gerdau safety, environmental, and operational procedures. Participate in daily safety meetings and routines. Identify and report safety hazards, environmental concerns, equipment issues, and improper operating conditions. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment. Material Inspection & Quality Control Ensure all incoming scrap is scanned for radiation and properly quarantined if it fails inspection protocols. Inspect incoming scrap materials for quality and environmental compliance. Verify scrap grades and quality standards while identifying deductions and downgrades as required. Communicate inspection findings promptly and accurately with scale personnel. Ensure all outbound materials meet company safety and quality requirements. Equipment Operation Safely operate loaders, material handlers, and other mobile equipment to load and unload scrap materials. Perform and document Routine Equipment Care (REC) inspections daily. Assist with general yard maintenance and operational support as needed. Customer Service & Teamwork Communicate effectively with customers, coworkers, supervisors, and scale operators. Deliver excellent customer service while maintaining operational efficiency. Support Gerdau's core values through professional and respectful interactions. Rail Operations (Location Dependent) For locations with rail operations, additional duties may include: Shifting full and empty rail cars. Operating a locomotive in accordance with standard operating procedures. Activating rail switches. Coupling and uncoupling rail cars. Setting brakes and wheel blocks as required. QualificationsPreferred Previous experience in scrap metal recycling, materials handling, or heavy equipment operation. Knowledge of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap grading. Experience operating loaders, cranes, material handlers, or similar equipment. Required Commitment to workplace safety and environmental compliance. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Ability to perform physically demanding work and operate heavy equipment safely. Dependable, self-motivated, and customer-focused. What We Offer Competitive compensation Comprehensive training and development opportunities Safe and team-oriented work environment Career growth opportunities with an industry leader Join Gerdau and become part of a team committed to safety, quality, sustainability, and operational excellence. Apply today!