Recycled metals worker

As a recycled metals worker, you could:

• weigh and record scrap metal collections
•  grade and sort metal, by hand or machine
•  shred scrap metal into pieces using hydraulic shears and cutters
•  use machines to crush the scrap into bales
•  operate a forklift truck or crane to stack and load sorted metal
•  drive lorries to collect or deliver recycled material

We've identified this as a green job

As a recycled metals worker, you'll remove materials to go for recycling from scrapped vehicles, household appliances and electrical and electronic waste. You'll also dispose of pollutants safely. This can have a positive impact on the environment.

Find out more about green careers

• the ability to operate and control equipment
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• the ability to work well with your hands
• observation and recording skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need a large goods vehicle (LGV) licence if your job involves driving a lorry to collect metal waste.

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

With experience, you could become a supervisor or manager of a recycling site.

You could also be self-employed and start your own recycling business.