Heavy Equipment Operator

A Sims Metal Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating machinery used in metal recycling, performing equipment inspections, handling scrap materials, and maintaining a clean, hazard‑free work environment. The core of the job is material handling, equipment operation (front end loaders, cranes), safety compliance, and routine maintenance.

Primary Duties

• Material Handling — Load/unload trucks, trailers, barges, and rail cars; move and pile scrap metal using loaders, cranes, forklifts, bobcats, and skid steers.

• Equipment Operation — Operate front‑end loaders, articulated cranes (grapple/magnet).

• Safety Compliance — Follow Sims’ safety regulations and “golden rules,” avoid hazards, coordinate movements with spotters, and maintain a zero‑harm workplace.

• Equipment Inspections — Complete pre‑operational checklists, report discrepancies, and perform end‑of‑shift inspections.

• Routine Maintenance — Greasing, fueling, cleaning, and basic upkeep of equipment.

• Site Housekeeping — Maintain clean work areas, sweep/shovel residual waste, and ensure safe conditions for employees and customers.

 Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.

• 1–5 years of heavy equipment operation experience.

• Ability to read and understand instructions, safety procedures, and documentation.

• Must pass pre‑employment physical, background check, and drug screen.

Work Environment

• Outdoor work in all weather conditions.

• Fast‑paced industrial environment with heavy machinery and moving materials.

• Emphasis on safety, environmental responsibility, and teamwork.

Physical Requirements

• Lift, carry, push, and pull heavy materials.
• Stand or walk for extended periods.
• Ability to climb, balance, crouch, and perform manual labor safely.

 Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands to finger, handle, or feel materials and equipment. The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, and communicate verbally. The employee is also frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl when accessing or servicing equipment.

The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required for this role include:

• Close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, ability to adjust focus.