Scrap metal recycling is a $42.3 billion industry in the U.S., employing more than half a million people. Turning scrap into a renewable resource requires diligent effort and a network of contributors—from large operations to multi-generational families of independent peddlers who collect and deliver metal to recycling centers, where it is transformed back into valuable raw material.
Metal Recycling Is Hard Work—Finding the Right People Is Even Harder
One leading metal recycling company, with locations across the U.S., has partnered with Total Talent Resources for years to fill roles such as inspectors, scale operators, equipment operators, general laborers, and cleaning crews at its Illinois facility.
“Having the right person to fill those responsibilities and roles is paramount for us, especially roles like inspectors. They’re inspecting and grading incoming material and are the frontline facing our customers. We’re not just filling a headcount here. A lot of it is about personality, willingness, and the ability to learn and take on new initiatives. Experience can be trained—we’re looking for the right people.”
– Chris D., EHS Safety Partner
Historically, finding dependable contingent workers was a challenge. The physically demanding nature of metal recycling—working outdoors in extreme temperatures—often leads to rapid turnover. But Total Talent’s upfront communication and preparation process has led to better fit and stronger retention.
“Total has completely risen to the occasion. They set clear expectations and give candidates a realistic picture of the work environment and its risks before they accept the job. We’ve seen significantly less turnover with them compared to any other agency we’ve used.”
– Chris D.
A Contingent Worker Steps Up in an Emergency
At one of the company’s recycling sites, a routine workday turned into an emergency when a long-time scrap metal provider fell and suffered a laceration.
A contingent worker from Total Talent quickly responded. Drawing on prior medical training, he assessed the situation, contacted emergency services, and notified the injured man’s family—handling the situation calmly and effectively.
“The contingent worker immediately jumped into action—assessing the situation, calling 911, and notifying the family. As a paramedic and instructor myself, I could tell he had real training. He later shared that he had been studying to become a nurse but hadn’t completed the program. We were genuinely impressed by how calmly and skillfully he handled everything.”
– Chris D.
To honor his actions, both the client and Total Talent held an on-site safety award event. Work paused so employees—and members of the scrapping community—could gather and recognize his bravery and quick thinking.
3 Elements of a Successful Contingent Workforce Partnership
This ongoing partnership demonstrates how thoughtful strategy and culture alignment create success for both employers and workers.
1. Treating All Workers with Equal Respect
The client integrates contingent workers fully into training, onboarding, and workplace culture—creating a sense of fairness and inclusion.
“To me, ‘temp’ is a dirty word. They’re part of our team. We treat contingent workers just like full-time employees. They go through an eight-hour orientation, complete our full training modules, and are paid for that time.”
– Chris D.
2. Creating a Performance-to-Hire Pathway
While not all contingent workers seek full-time employment, many do—and having a clear path from contingent to permanent is a valuable incentive.
“It’s always our intention to bring people on as full-time employees if they prove to be the right fit. That trial period gives us time to assess mutual fit before hiring.”
– Chris D.
3. Prioritizing Local Support and Community Connection
The recycler is deeply rooted in the community, and they value that Total Talent is, too. Proximity and cultural awareness make a difference.
“Total Talent is embedded in the local area. Having a nearby office allows for easy, ongoing collaboration. It strengthens the partnership.”
– Chris D.
A Strategic Partner in Workforce Excellence and Safety
Responsiveness, transparency, and shared values make Total Talent a trusted partner in one of the most demanding industrial environments.
“The local team is phenomenal. They check in regularly, ask how things are going, and follow up on performance. In our industry, incidents can happen despite our best efforts. When they do, Total responds quickly and professionally. As a safety professional, I can confidently say they are a step above the rest.”
– Chris D.
Total Talent Resources is proud to support industrial clients who need committed, safety-minded, and trainable workers for even the toughest jobs. Together, we’re helping build a more reliable and resilient workforce—one person at a time.
Reach out today to start building your own supply chain talent pipeline.