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Material Sorter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sorter

San Jose, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Sorter FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Reports To: MRF Manager Pay: $22.50 to 25.00 /hr. About the Company ... GreenWaste specializes in all aspects of material collection, processing, and sales, tailoring our ...

Sorter

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.66 - $22.35/hr

Sorter FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Reports To : Supervisor Pay: $20.66-$22.35/hr. About the Company ... GreenWaste specializes in all aspects of material collection, processing, and sales, tailoring our ...

Sorter

San Jose, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Sorter FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Reports To: MRF Manager Pay: $22.50 to 25.00 /hr. About the Company ... GreenWaste specializes in all aspects of material collection, processing, and sales, tailoring our ...

Sorter

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

The Sorter oversees the daily operations of the sorting line, ensuring that recyclable materials ... Manually sort materials according to type (e.g., paper, plastics, cardboard) to ensure proper ...

Sorter

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

The Sorter oversees the daily operations of the sorting line, ensuring that recyclable materials ... Manually sort materials according to type (e.g., paper, plastics, cardboard) to ensure proper ...

Sorter

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Job Summary: We are seeking dedicated Sorters to join our team at a Material Recovery Facility (MRF). As an MRF Sorter, you will play a vital role in the recycling process by identifying and ...

Sorter

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$18.57/hr

The Sorter is responsible for sorting materials such as organic material and general debris in the recycling yard and the rubble yard. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the ...

Job Summary: We are seeking dedicated Sorters to join our team at a Material Recovery Facility (MRF). As an MRF Sorter, you will play a vital role in the recycling process by identifying and ...

Sorter

Ukiah, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Ukiah Waste Solutions , a Waste Connections company, is looking for a safety conscious Sorter to ... Sorting through material on the bottle line * Cleaning equipment. * Maintaining cleanliness of the ...

Sorter

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$25.05/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Sorter is responsible for safely and efficiently processing incoming ... Sort and segregate recoverable materials (e.g., aluminum, plastic, glass, paper, etc.) from ...

Sorter

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$25.05/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Sorter is responsible for safely and efficiently processing incoming ... Sort and segregate recoverable materials (e.g., aluminum, plastic, glass, paper, etc.) from ...

Sorter

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$25.05/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Sorter is responsible for safely and efficiently processing incoming ... Sort and segregate recoverable materials (e.g., aluminum, plastic, glass, paper, etc.) from ...

Sorter

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$25.05/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Sorter is responsible for safely and efficiently processing incoming ... Sort and segregate recoverable materials (e.g., aluminum, plastic, glass, paper, etc.) from ...

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Showing results 1-20

Material Sorter information

See California salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do material sorter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for material sorter in California is $14.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.79 and $16.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a material sorter?

Material Sorters are workers responsible for separating and categorizing different types of materials—such as recyclables, waste, and reusable items—at facilities like recycling centers or waste management plants. Their main task is to ensure that items are properly sorted for further processing or disposal, often by hand or using machinery. Material Sorters help reduce contamination in recycling streams and improve the efficiency of recycling operations. This job requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and knowledge of material types.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a material sorter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Material Sorter, you need attention to detail, basic math skills, and physical stamina, often with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with conveyor belts, sorting machinery, and safety protocols is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate sorting, workplace safety, and efficient recycling or waste management operations.

What are some common challenges faced by material sorters, and how can they be addressed?

Material Sorters often encounter challenges such as repetitive tasks, exposure to various materials, and the need to quickly identify and separate items accurately. To address these, it's important to maintain focus, follow safety protocols strictly, and use personal protective equipment provided by employers. Many organizations promote teamwork and rotate tasks to help reduce fatigue and monotony, fostering a supportive work environment. Additionally, ongoing training and clear labeling systems can make sorting processes more efficient and less stressful.

Is a material sorter job a good fit for me?

A material sorter job involves organizing and separating materials in warehouses or recycling facilities, requiring attention to detail and physical stamina. It often involves standing for long periods and handling potentially hazardous materials, so physical fitness and safety awareness are important. This role is suitable for individuals who can work in a fast-paced environment and follow safety protocols.

What skills do you need to be a material sorter?

Material sorters need strong attention to detail, good manual dexterity, and the ability to identify different materials accurately. Physical stamina and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important, along with basic knowledge of safety procedures and sometimes the use of sorting tools or machinery.
Infographic showing various Material Sorter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,373 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Title: Sorter

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt      

Reports To: MRF Manager                      

Pay: $22.50 to 25.00 /hr.


About the Company:

 

GreenWaste has been an industry leader in recycling and waste diversion for 40 years and is on a growth trajectory after private equity investment in 2021. Our business was founded on principles of environmental sustainability, and innovation is a cornerstone of our ongoing operations and growth strategy. GreenWaste specializes in all aspects of material collection, processing, and sales, tailoring our service offerings to the unique needs of our customers and communities, and helping to shape the evolution of the solid waste and recycling industry. We work directly with 20+ municipalities and 50+ jurisdictions, operate highly regulated facilities in 10+ locations, and have 1,000+ employees. 

We are seeking an experienced, successful, and engaged Sorter to join our team. This position is expected to work out of our office at 653 Charles St. in San Jose and limited job-related travel may be required.


Position Summary:


GreenWaste is seeking to fill the position of Sorter to provide support to one or more facilities. This role’s main function will sort a variety of material that ranges from recyclables to trash in order to minimize contamination and to maintain high recyclable rates.