Operations Trainee/Cadet _ Metal Recycling

Sims Limited (Sims) is a global leader in metal and electronics recycling, and an emerging leader in the renewable energy industry. 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.

With a promote-from-within philosophy and a variety of programmes available to support continuous learning, Sims offers the opportunity for a rewarding career. We are committed to the ecologically sound and sustainable use of resources and strive to operate in a manner that minimises waste and protects the environment.

The Business Operations Cadet at Sims Metal is not your average desk job. This is a unique opportunity to get hands-on experience in both operations and trading/commercial functions. Think of it as a crash course in the scrap metal industry—where you'll learn the ropes, build skills, and be on track to become a leader (with plenty of career growth beyond that!).

From day one, you'll be part of a fast-paced, exciting environment. Predominately located at our Rocklea site, you'll need to get your hands dirty—but that's what makes it fun! Through rotations across different parts of the business, you will pick up insider knowledge and specialised skills that truly set you apart in the industry.

What's in It for You?

• Real experience, real impact: Get hands-on with site operations, learn about plant production, and dive into the nitty-gritty of buying and trading metals.
• Grow your skills: Learn everything from managing ferrous and non-ferrous metals to handling logistics and understanding environmental and safety policies.
• Be part of something big: Help shape a sustainable future with a company at the forefront of recycling innovation.
• Leadership potential: We'll give you the tools and mentoring you need to step into leadership roles.

What You'll Be Doing

You'll work across all aspects of the business, including:

• Site Operations: Understand how things run on the ground.
• Trading & Commercial Work: Learn how we buy, sell, and trade metals.
• Customer Service: Help customers, manage pricing reports, and support operations with admin tasks.
• Safety First: Get familiar with the safety and environmental standards that drive our industry.

Why You'll Love Sims Metal

• Hands-on experience: This isn't a sit-behind-a-desk kind of role. You'll be in the thick of it, learning by doing.
• Mentors who care: We'll pair you with mentors to help you succeed.
• A sustainable mission: Join a company making a real impact—helping the planet while growing your career.
• Career progression: Your journey doesn't end here; this program sets you up for success long-term.
• Exclusive perks: Think BUPA health discounts, salary continuance insurance, and access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program.

What We're Looking For

We want go-getters with:

• A can-do attitude and a willingness to learn.
• A passion for building a career, not just a job.
• Strong communication and people skills (we'll help you grow these too!).
• A focus on safety—because it's part of everything we do.
• The ability to stay motivated and get the job done as part of a team.

Why Start Now?

If you're looking for a role where you can learn, grow, and make a real impact, this is your chance. We don't expect you to have all the answers—we'll teach you what you need to know.

Ready to Apply?

Don't wait—kickstart your career today! Submit your resume and cover letter by clicking the ‘Apply' button.

Applications Close

24 March 2026, 11:25pm

Learn more about Sims Metal and our early career programs: Sims Limited Early Careers

Sims Metal acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land and pays respect to Elders past, present, and emerging.

Why Sims?

• Join an environmentally conscious company recognised as the most sustainable corporation in 2024 on Corporate Knights' Global 100 index. We are dedicated to ecologically sound practices, minimising waste, and protecting the environment.
• Parental Leave: Sims is pleased to offer a paid parental leave policy, providing 12 weeks of paid leave for primary carer and 6 weeks for non-primary carer. This benefit is available to parents involved in the birth or adoption of a child, affirming our commitment to supporting employees through major life changes.
• Novated Lease: Enjoy tax-effective vehicle leasing, providing both convenience and savings.
• BUPA Discounts: Access exclusive health insurance discounts for you and your loved ones.
• Prioritise your mental and emotional well-being with confidential counselling and support services through our tailored EAP program.
• Access exclusive superannuation sessions tailored to enhance your understanding and management of superannuation benefits, providing valuable insights and support for your financial well-being.
• Protect your financial security with complimentary salary continuance insurance.

A career with Sims provides you with the opportunity to work with an organisation 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.

At sims together we are a diverse group of employees who are supported by our equal opportunity policy. To achieve our purpose to create a world without waste to preserve our planet, we are guided by our Pillars of Purpose: Be Safe + Well, Band Together, Be Accountable + Transparent, Consistently Innovate, Inspire with Purpose, Celebrate + Have Fun.