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simsmetalm
Equipment Operator
Entry-Level JobVerifiedNo experience needed
Career Insights for Operating Engineer / Heavy Equipment Operator
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Based on Virginia data
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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.
$58,766 / year median in Virginia
+9% projected growth
Job Description
Sims Metal (Sims) is a global leader in metal recycling. With facilities across the globe, Sims plays an intrinsic role in the circular economy by making resources available for future use. As a responsible corporate citizen, we continuously seek new ways to broaden our participation in the environmental sector, ensuring that our future is as bright, safe, and secure as at any time in our long history.
Equipment Operator
Sims Metal
Job Summary
The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment used in metal recycling operations, including front-end loaders, forklifts, bobcats, and skid steers. The position supports production activities by loading, unloading, sorting, and moving scrap materials while maintaining a strong commitment to safety, equipment maintenance, and housekeeping standards. This role combines equipment operation with general labor duties. Key Responsibilities Operate front-end loaders, forklifts, bobcats, skid steers, and other material-handling equipment safely and efficiently. Perform pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections and complete required documentation. Conduct routine maintenance, including fueling, lubricating, and cleaning equipment. Load and unload trucks, railcars, barges, and other transport vehicles. Sort and prepare scrap materials according to quality and specification requirements. Maintain a clean and safe work area through sweeping, shoveling, and general housekeeping activities. Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and environmental regulations. Assist with other operational duties as assigned. Qualifications High school diploma or GED required. Minimum of 12 months of related equipment operating experience preferred. Experience working in scrap recycling, manufacturing, construction, or industrial environments is an asset. Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Ability to perform physical labor and lift up to 40 pounds. Skills Safe operation of heavy equipment
Forklift and loader experience
Attention to safety and detail
Teamwork and communication
Problem-solving and adaptability
Basic equipment maintenance knowledge
A career with Sims provides you with the opportunity to work with an organization whose goal is to be the world's safest and most responsible recycling company. Our people achieve this by creating a zero-harm workplace, being exemplary members of the communities in which we operate, and being responsible stewards of the environment. We also offer competitive pay and a range of attractive benefits.
Sims is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value the diversity of all of our employees and are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone can contribute, advance on merit, and realize their full potential. Sims does not discriminate with regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, citizenship status, disability, age, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, housing status, source of income, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to any employment decision, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. qualified applicants with a disability in need of a reasonable accommodation may request such without fear of reprisal or discrimination. To achieve our purpose to create a world without waste to preserve our planet, we are guided by our