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Recycler Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Recycling Laborer

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.87/hr

Dedicate efforts to ensuring that all recycling and solid waste areas are not only clean but also fully functional and operational. Additionally, handle other assigned duties with diligence and ...

Augment is a leader in the sanitation and recycling industry, providing top-quality workforce solutions to Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), landfills, and other waste management sites. We are ...

Our recycling division plays a critical role in maximizing asset value, driving material recovery, and supporting our broader circular economy strategy. Securis is primed for transformational growth ...

Forklift Operator- Recycling

Manassas, VA · On-site

$20.30 - $27.87/hr

Although we operate across North America, the collection, recycling, treatment, or disposal of materials is a local business, and the dynamics and opportunities differ in each market we serve. By ...

Forklift Operator- Recycling

Manassas, VA · On-site

$20.30 - $27.87/hr

Although we operate across North America, the collection, recycling, treatment, or disposal of materials is a local business, and the dynamics and opportunities differ in each market we serve. By ...

Dumps recycling and refuse carts and other materials in collection vehicles and places the carts back in the position they were prior to collection. Assembles, cleans and distributes carts to ...

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Recycler information

See Washington salary details

$17

$20

$28

How much do recycler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycler in Washington is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recycler?

Recyclers are professionals or organizations involved in the collection, sorting, and processing of materials that can be reused, such as paper, plastic, glass, and metals. Their work helps reduce waste sent to landfills and supports the creation of new products from used materials. Recyclers play a key role in promoting environmental sustainability by ensuring that valuable resources are recovered and reused instead of being discarded.

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

To thrive as a Recycler, you need a solid understanding of waste materials, proper sorting techniques, and adherence to environmental and safety regulations, often supported by on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with recycling machinery, safety equipment, and inventory tracking systems is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and teamwork are essential soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient operations. These skills are crucial for maintaining workplace safety, maximizing material recovery, and supporting sustainable environmental practices.

What are some common challenges faced by recyclers, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Recyclers often encounter challenges such as sorting materials accurately, handling hazardous waste safely, and meeting strict recycling quotas. Staying informed about the latest recycling guidelines and safety protocols is essential to perform the job effectively. Teamwork is also crucial, as recyclers regularly coordinate with supervisors and fellow workers to ensure efficient processing. Adapting to new technologies and maintaining attention to detail can help recyclers overcome these challenges and contribute to a safer, more productive work environment.

What is the difference between Recycler vs Waste Collector?

AspectRecyclerWaste Collector
Primary RoleSorts, processes, and prepares recyclable materials for reuse or resaleCollects and transports waste and recyclables from various locations
Work EnvironmentRecycling facilities, processing plantsResidential, commercial, and industrial areas
CredentialsMay require certifications in waste management or recycling proceduresTypically requires a valid driver’s license and safety training
Industry UsageUsed in waste management and recycling industriesUsed in waste collection services and sanitation departments

While both Recycler and Waste Collector roles are essential in waste management, recyclers focus on processing recyclable materials, whereas waste collectors primarily gather waste and recyclables from collection points. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service provider within the waste management industry.

How can I get paid to recycle?

Recycler jobs typically pay employees for collecting, sorting, and processing recyclable materials. Payment can be hourly wages or based on the amount of material handled, and some positions may require safety training or certifications. Opportunities are often available through waste management companies, recycling centers, or environmental programs.

What are the duties of a recycler?

A recycler sorts, collects, and processes recyclable materials such as paper, plastic, glass, and metals to reduce waste and support environmental sustainability. They operate machinery, follow safety protocols, and may inspect materials to ensure proper sorting and quality control.

What job categories do people searching Recycler jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Recycler jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Recycler jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Recycler job openings:

Infographic showing various Recycler job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,404 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Waste/Recycling Technician

Capitol Heights, MD

CMT Services, Inc.
Business Management Consulting • 51 - 200 employees

$16.60/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Disclaimer:

By submitting your resume for this job posting, you authorize CMT Services, Inc. to forward your resume to all applicable internal and external managers, agencies, and recruitment personnel for review and consideration to hire.


ABOUT US:

CMT Services, Inc. is a dynamic and growing small business supporting Federal, State, and Local government agencies.As a SBA-certified HUBZone, Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB), we deliver quality, professional services to support the missions and strategic business goals of our clients. Leaning on our core values ofIntegrity & Commitment, CMT's mission is to continue delivering the highest quality servicesto our customers by applying best practices from our team of Industry experts ensuring not only our customers success, but the establishment of CMT Services as theirReliable Partner of Choice.


Job Summary:

The Waste/Recycling Technician is generally responsible for ensuring proper placement, sorting, cleaning, and discarding materials in the recycling facility. This work physical activity, including walking, standing, bending, stooping, lifting, and carrying possibly heavy objects. Duties will require concentration and attention to detail for long periods of time. This position will include indoor and outdoor work environments and is fast paced. Candidate must be able to communicate well with others and proactively contribute to group objectives.


Duties:

  • Manual sorting of recyclable materials at the Pre-Sort Station (QA/QC) to remove trash and unacceptable materials, and recover strategic recyclable material such as, but not limited to, rigid plastics, and large metal items.
  • Manual Sorting of recyclable materials at the Presort stations, Paper lines, OCC line, and Plastics lines.
  • Manual Sorting of the recyclable materials at the Fiber Sorting Stations (QA/QC) to remove trash and unacceptable materials from the Fiber stream, and the Aluminum line.
  • Manual breakdown of various Mixed Rigid Plastics so they can be efficiently baled. Breakdown of rigid plastic products such as blue bins, recycling carts, trash cans, kiddie pools, plastic playhouses, pails, buckets, plastic pallets, milk crates, large water bottles, laundry baskets, pet carrier, flowerpots, and plastic automotive parts shall be accomplished with a Sawzall or similar portable hand tools.
  • Cleaning of all receiving, processing, and storage areas, and equipment
  • Cleaning of Site grounds, roads, wash bays, storm drain screens, and drain outfalls.
  • Cleaning of Building Facilities such as offices, locker rooms, break rooms, education center, tour routes, and scale houses
  • Sorting of incoming materials to identify material composition.
  • Sorting of baled products to identify bale composition and bale quality.
  • Dressing of baled products to remove visible unacceptable materials and improve bale quality.
  • Participating in bale breaks, waste sorts, line sorts, and all other types of quality control
  • Cleaning the elevated Vibratory or Rotating Screening Equipment utilizing proper fall arrest equipment
  • Directing traffic when required
  • Other tasks as assigned by the Facility Management Team


Required Qualifications:

  • Must be able to pass a drug screening.
  • Move at a fast pace with speed and accuracy.
  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
  • Must be able to perform independently and to carry out assignments to completion within parameters of instructions given, prescribed routines, and standard accepted practices.
  • Remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods of time while performing essential duties and responsibilities.
  • Possess working knowledge of the precautions necessary to work safely with and around heavy equipment and public works equipment.
  • Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs.
  • Maintain all safety equipment including but not limited to hard hat, safety vests, goggles, steel toe boots, etc.).
  • Must be able to wear steel toed boots.


Experience:

  • Must have 1-3 years of environmental services, waste management, or experience in a similarposition.


Education:

  • High-school diploma or GED equivalent required.


Conditions of Employment:

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States of America.
  • Successfully complete pre-employment background check.
  • Perform manual labor for extended shifts and possible weekends.


Work Hours:

  • Day Shift Hours between 5:00am-5:30pm