Recycled Metals Worker
Job Description:Metal workers cut, shape, join, sort, and grade metal.
Job Category:What you will do:
Your day-to-day responsibilities will depend on your specialism.
If you specialise as a welder, you might be responsible for:
- cutting and joining composite materials, such as plastics, using specialist welding methods
- setting out the materials to be cut or joined
- following engineering instructions and drawings
- inspecting and testing cuts and joins, using precision measuring instruments
- operating the semi-automatic spot-welding equipment used in high volume production lines
If you specialise as a sheet metal worker, you might be responsible for:
- making metal products (such as aluminium sheets for street signs, steel panels for car bodies, pipes, panels and storage tanks) from flat sheets
- marking out sections following engineering drawings and instructions
- shaping and cutting out sections using hand tools and Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machines, like laser cutters, presses and rollers
- finishing items with grinders and polishers
- assembling sections using riveting, welding and bolting methods
If you specialise as a scrap metal worker or recycled metal worker, you might be responsible for:
- weighing scrap metal on a weigh bridge or platform
- sorting and grading scrap
- recording details and filling in paperwork
- using machines (balers) to crush the scrap into bales
- cutting up large items by hand, using welding equipment
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of recycling processes
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptable)
- the ability to work well with your hands
- observation and recording skills (organisational skills)
Entry Requirements:
There are no set entry requirements.
Experience or a college qualification in engineering will be helpful fo some roles. You could get into this job through an apprenticeship.
To become a Welder, you’ll usually have to pass competency tests for the type of welding work you do. These show that your work meets welding standards (codes).
To become a Scrap metal worker, you’ll need to have a forklift licence
In the UK, you’ll also need a Client Contractor National Safety Group (CCNSG) Safety Passport to work on most engineering construction sites.
Restrictions and Requirements
You’ll need a large goods vehicle (LGV) licence if your job involves driving a lorry to collect metal waste.
Working Hours and Environment:
You could work at a waste recycling site.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could be promoted to a supervisory role, such as:
- site supervisor
- foreperson
- middle management
- workshop manager
With experience, you could become a yard manager or set up your own scrap metal or recycling business.