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Plastic Recycling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plastipak Packaging, Inc.

Machine Operator

Dundee, MI

$18.75 - $20.25/hr

Clean Tech is looking for experienced Machine Operator at our plastics recycling facility in Dundee, MI. Our associates are responsible for operating and maintaining recycling equipment, in an effort ...

Plastipak Packaging, Inc.

Machine Operator

Dundee, MI · On-site

$18.75 - $20.25/hr

Clean Tech is looking for experienced Machine Operator at our plastics recycling facility in Dundee, MI. Our associates are responsible for operating and maintaining recycling equipment, in an effort ...

Ashley Global Retail, LLC

Recycling

Brandon, FL · On-site

Operating a baler to compact and bundle recyclable materials such as cardboard and plastic into ... Recycling principle * Work independently as well as in a team environment * Maintain ...

Ashley Global Retail, LLC

Recycling

Brandon, FL · On-site

Operating a baler to compact and bundle recyclable materials such as cardboard and plastic into ... Recycling principle * Work independently as well as in a team environment * Maintain ...

Ravago Americas

Production Manager

Buckeye, AZ · On-site

Join Us in Making Plastic Recycling Real Be a part of the movement to make plastics recycling real. At Blue Polymers, we're transforming post-consumer plastic into high-quality resin that goes right ...

Clean Tech Incorporated

Machine Operator

Dundee, MI · On-site

$20.25/hr

Monitor & operate plastic recycling equipment in a safe manner * Maintain processes and equipment, including basic maintenance and equipment troubleshooting * Lead process change overs, quality ...

Clean Tech Incorporated

Machine Operator

Dundee, MI · On-site

$20.25/hr

Monitor & operate plastic recycling equipment in a safe manner * Maintain processes and equipment, including basic maintenance and equipment troubleshooting * Lead process change overs, quality ...

Maine Recycling

Recycling Warehouse Laborer

Bangor, ME · On-site

$16.75/hr

Unloading of trailers containing empty Plastic and Aluminum containers. * Processing Glass, Plastic and Aluminum for recycling. Benefits * Nights and weekends off. * Paid lunch * 401k, Health, Dental ...

Hoehn Plastics

Housekeeping

Poseyville, IN · On-site

$13.25 - $15.75/hr

Wellness resources Hoehn Plastics is a full-service plastic recycling company committed to processing all forms of plastic resins. We focus on creating customized recycling programs for clients who ...

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How much do plastic recycling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic recycling in the United States is $16.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Plastic Recycling position, and why are they important?

To succeed in plastic recycling, you need knowledge of waste management processes, attention to environmental regulations, and often a background in environmental science or industrial operations. Familiarity with material sorting technologies, machinery for shredding or melting plastics, and relevant safety certifications such as OSHA are valuable. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help you adapt and collaborate effectively in fast-paced, safety-focused environments. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficiency, safety, and compliance in handling and recycling plastics.

What is a Plastic Recycling job?

A Plastic Recycling job involves collecting, sorting, processing, and managing plastic waste to be reused or repurposed. Workers may operate machinery, oversee recycling procedures, or ensure proper disposal methods. Roles can vary from manual labor in recycling facilities to quality control and environmental compliance. The goal is to reduce plastic waste, minimize environmental impact, and promote sustainability.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for someone working in plastic recycling?

In a plastic recycling role, your daily tasks may include sorting different types of plastics, operating and maintaining recycling machinery, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and tracking recycled materials for reporting purposes. You may also be involved in quality control, troubleshooting equipment issues, and collaborating with team members and supervisors to optimize workflow. The work often requires physical activity and attention to detail, as well as a commitment to sustainable practices. These tasks are vital to ensure that recycled plastics meet industry standards and effectively contribute to waste reduction efforts.

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Plastic Recycling jobs near you
Maintenance Technician M-F Plastic Recycling (Electrical & Mechanical)

Maintenance Technician M-F Plastic Recycling (Electrical & Mechanical)

Return Polymers, Inc.

Indianapolis, IN

$40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Maintenance Technician – Plastic Recycling (Electrical & Mechanical)

Location: Indianapolis, IN

Shift Schedule:

  • 3rd Shift (Monday to Friday 11:30PM-8AM)

Compensation: $30.00/ per hour to $40.00/ per hour depending on skill set.

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Maintenance Technician with electrical and mechanical expertise to support our plastic recycling operations. The ideal candidate will ensure the reliability, efficiency, and safety of sorting, shredding, wet separation, grinding and extrusion equipment. This role involves troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and repairs to minimize downtime in a fast-paced recycling environment.

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Key Responsibilities:

Electrical Maintenance (Plastic Recycling Focus):

· Troubleshoot and repair 480VAC, 3-phase motors, VFDs, and control panels for shredders, extruders, and conveyor systems.

· Diagnose electrical faults in production equipment, balers, and pelletizers using multimeters, meggers, and PLC diagnostics.

· Maintain and repair sensors, relays, solenoids, and safety interlocks on production equipment

· Ensure compliance with NFPA 70E (Arc Flash Safety) and lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures.

Mechanical Maintenance (Plastic Processing Equipment):

· Perform bearing replacements, gearbox repairs, and belt/chain adjustments on conveyors and granulators.

· Weld (MIG/TIG) and fabricate repairs on hopper liners, screw augers, and shredder blades.

· Troubleshoot hydraulic/pneumatic systems for shredders, forklifts, and material handlers.

· Align and maintain extruder barrels, dies, and cooling systems to prevent production defects.

Plastic Recycling-Specific Duties:

· Address material jams, contamination issues, and wear-related failures in production lines.

· Optimize equipment to handle varied plastic feedstocks (PET, HDPE, PP, etc.).

· Work with hot melt systems, filtration screens, and pelletizing equipment.

· Document maintenance in CMMS and track recurring issues for continuous improvement.

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Qualifications & Skills:

· Experience: 3+ years in industrial maintenance, preferably in plastic recycling, waste processing, or related manufacturing.

· Electrical: Strong knowledge of motor controls, PLCs (Allen-Bradley/Siemens), and industrial wiring.

· Mechanical: Proficiency in pump repairs, welding, and mechanical power transmission systems.

· Problem-Solving: Ability to diagnose issues caused by contaminated plastics or abrasive wear.

· Certifications (Preferred):

NFPA 70E

o Welding (AWS)

o Forklift/Manlift Certification

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

· Lift 50+ lbs, climb ladders, and work in dusty/noisy conditions near moving machinery.

· Exposure to plastic particulates, heat (extruders), and occasional odors.

· Flexibility for overtime or emergency call-ins during breakdowns.