Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced and safety-minded Material Handler Operator to join our metal recycling operation in Madison, IL. In this role, you will primarily operate high-capacity material handlers (such as a Fuchs MH331 or similar hydraulic scrap handling equipment equipped with grapples and electromagnets) to unload, sort, feed, and load scrap metal across our yard.
The ideal candidate has proven experience operating rubber-tired or crawler material handlers in a scrap recycling, steel mill, or heavy industrial environment and possesses a strong commitment to equipment care, operational safety, and yard efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
- Equipment Operation: Safely and efficiently operate material handlers (Fuchs MH331, Sennebogen, Cat, or equivalent) equipped with scrap grapples and electro-magnets.
- Scrap Processing & Sorting: Load and unload scrap metal from trailers, railcars, trucks, and shear/shredder feed tables. Sort ferrous and non-ferrous materials into designated storage bins or stockpiles.
- Yard Logistics: Manage scrap stockpiles to optimize space and maintain clear traffic lanes for trucks, equipment, and yard personnel.
- Pre- & Post-Shift Inspections: Perform routine daily inspections (walk-arounds, fluid checks, greasing, hydraulic hose checks, and cab cleanliness). Report maintenance needs or mechanical issues promptly to line management/maintenance.
- Safety & Compliance: Adhere strictly to company safety protocols, OSHA standards, and yard Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements at all times.
- Team Collaboration: Communicate effectively via two-way radio with weighmasters, truck drivers, yard ground personnel, and site management to coordinate movement safely.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Experience: Minimum 2+ years of hands-on experience operating heavy material handlers (specifically high-cab Fuchs, Sennebogen, Caterpillar, or Liebherr equipment) in a scrap yard, demolition, or recycling facility is preferred.
- Attachment Proficiency: Proven skill operating hydraulic scrap grapples and magnet attachments.
- Scrap Identification: Knowledge of basic ferrous and non-ferrous metal grades is preferred.
- Mechanically Inclined: Basic knowledge of heavy equipment maintenance, hydraulic systems, and daily PM (preventative maintenance) checks.
- Safety First Mindset: Excellent spatial awareness, high attention to surrounding ground traffic/pedestrians, and a clean safety record.
- Work Ethic: Reliable attendance, self-motivated, and capable of working productively with minimal direct supervision.
- Certifications: Heavy equipment operator certifications or OSHA safety training is a plus. High School Diploma or GED required.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
- Exposure to outdoor weather conditions year-round (heat, cold, dust, rain/snow).
- Ability to climb in and out of elevated operator cabs safely using proper 3-point contact.
- Must be able to sit for extended periods while operating controls and maneuver smoothly in active yard conditions.
- Standard steel-toe boots, hard hat, high-visibility vest, safety glasses, and hearing protection required on duty.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
