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Internship Plastic Recycling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Recycle Right by placing plastic bottles, paper, cardboard, metal cans and aluminum cans in your ... interns are not eligible to receive holiday pay.

... of an internship opportunity high school students looking to serve civic volunteer hours new ... Recycle Right by placing plastic bottles, paper, cardboard, metal cans and aluminum cans in your ...

... recycling technology, LYB is enabling a more sustainable future for generations to come. LYB ... We're addressing the global challenges of ending plastic waste, taking climate action, and ...

Internship Plastic Recycling information

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$9

$17

$23

How much do internship plastic recycling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship plastic recycling in the United States is $17.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during an internship in plastic recycling?

As an intern in plastic recycling, you can expect to be involved in a range of hands-on and research-based projects. Typical responsibilities may include assisting with sorting and categorizing plastic waste, supporting lab analysis to assess material quality, and participating in process optimization initiatives. Interns often collaborate closely with engineers, environmental scientists, and operations teams to help improve recycling efficiency and develop sustainable practices. This role provides valuable exposure to both technical and environmental aspects of the industry, offering a strong foundation for future roles in sustainability and materials science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Plastic Recycling, and why are they important?

To thrive in an Internship Plastic Recycling role, you need a basic understanding of environmental science, recycling processes, and a relevant academic background such as environmental engineering or chemistry. Familiarity with recycling machinery, data analysis software, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make an intern stand out in this field. These skills and qualities are important to ensure efficient recycling operations, adherence to safety standards, and meaningful contributions to sustainability goals.

What is an Internship in Plastic Recycling?

An Internship in Plastic Recycling is a temporary position, often for students or recent graduates, that provides hands-on experience in the processes and technologies involved in recycling plastic materials. Interns typically assist with research, sorting, processing, and sometimes outreach or educational initiatives related to plastic waste management. The goal is to gain practical skills and industry knowledge in environmental sustainability and recycling operations. These internships can be found in recycling plants, environmental organizations, or research institutions. They are an excellent way to explore a career in environmental science or sustainability.

What is the difference between Internship Plastic Recycling vs Plastic Recycling Technician?

AspectInternship Plastic RecyclingPlastic Recycling Technician
CredentialsTypically students or entry-level, no certifications requiredRelevant certifications or training often required
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, labs, or company internshipsIndustrial facilities, recycling plants
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning, assisting, observing recycling processesOperating equipment, maintaining machinery, quality control

Internship Plastic Recycling is a learning role for students or entry-level individuals gaining experience, while a Plastic Recycling Technician is a full-time professional responsible for operating and maintaining recycling equipment. The internship provides foundational knowledge, whereas the technician role involves hands-on technical work in industrial settings.

More about Internship Plastic Recycling jobs
What cities are hiring for Internship Plastic Recycling jobs? Cities with the most Internship Plastic Recycling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plastic Recycling jobs? The most popular types of Plastic Recycling jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Plastic Recycling jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Plastic Recycling jobs include:
Infographic showing various Internship Plastic Recycling job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,995 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Materials Science Engineer

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Advanced Drainage Systems rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 84 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

Overview

Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater solutions, committed to sustainability and innovation. With a vast manufacturing and distribution network, we deliver high-quality products across multiple industries while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where diverse perspectives drive better ideas, ensuring every employee feels valued, heard, and empowered to make an impact.

Responsibilities

As a Materials Science Engineer, you will help develop, test, and improve the plastic materials used in ADS products. You will work with engineers, manufacturing teams, suppliers, and laboratory staff to evaluate materials, solve problems, and support sustainability initiatives through the use of recycled plastics. 

What You'll Do 

  • Test and evaluate plastic materials and recycled resin blends. 
  • Assist with laboratory testing and manufacturing trials. 
  • Help develop new material formulations and improve existing ones. 
  • Support manufacturing plants by investigating material and processing issues. 
  • Document test results, material specifications, and recommendations. 
  • Collaborate with product development, quality, manufacturing, purchasing, and recycling teams. 

What We're Looking For 

  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical field. 
  • Interest in plastics, materials testing, manufacturing, and sustainability. 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
  • Ability to work effectively on cross-functional teams. 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
  • Internship, co-op, or research experience involving materials, polymers, manufacturing, or laboratory testing. 
  • Familiarity with plastic materials such as polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP). 

Why This Role? 

  • This position offers the opportunity to learn about materials science, sustainable manufacturing, recycling technologies, and product development while working alongside experienced engineers and scientists. 

#LI-CH1

#LI-Onsite

Company Benefits:

Health & Welfare Benefits: Medical and prescription drug plans, telemedicine (with medical plan), High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and Health Savings Account (HSA), dental and vision plans, virtual physical therapy*, an employee assistance program (EAP)*, and voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnification programs.

 Financial Benefits: Retirement 401k program with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (voluntary), financial wellness planning*, paid parental leave*, flexible spending accounts (FSA) for child care and health care, short-term and long-term disability*, basic life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)*, adoption financial reimbursement*, tuition reimbursement*, voluntary life insurance (for employees, spouses, and children), and voluntary identity theft and fraud protection.

*100% paid by ADS.

Why Join ADS?

Growth Opportunities & Global Presence: With a global network of approximately 70 manufacturing plants and 40 distribution centers, ADS offers extensive opportunities for career growth and development in various locations around the world.

Inclusive and Creative Work Culture: ADS fosters a culture of passion, innovation, and continuous improvement, empowering employees to shape industry-leading solutions. We value diverse perspectives, recognizing that they drive better ideas, processes, and performance. Our workplace is built on respect, inclusivity, and shared responsibility, ensuring every team member feels valued and contributes to our collective success.

Innovative & Sustainability Focused: Advanced Drainage Systems is one of the largest plastic recyclers in North America, ensuring over half a billion pounds of plastic is kept out of landfills every year.

Learn More: https://www.adspipe.com/about-us

EEO Statement

ADS supports an inclusive workplace that values diversity of thought, experience, and background. We celebrate the power of our differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. ADS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, creed, status with regard to public assistance, genetic status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.

Employment Type: OTHER

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