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Recycling Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archdiocese of Milwaukee

Custodian

Saint Francis, WI

$14 - $18/hr

Dispose of waste and recycling * Assist in maintaining supplies * Perform seasonal snow removal and other outside work * Clean-up of outside walkway, courtyard, and building upkeep as assigned ...

SpendMend LLC

Warehouse Associate

West Valley City, UT

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Recycling: Assist with regular recycling runs to dispose of materials properly. Qualifications: * Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with customers promptly.

SpendMend LLC

Warehouse Associate

West Valley City, UT · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Recycling: Assist with regular recycling runs to dispose of materials properly. Qualifications: * Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with customers promptly.

Pro Disposal

Recycling Sorters

Ebensburg, PA · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Maintain a clean and safe work environment * Assist with general recycling facility operations * Follow all company safety procedures and policies Physical Requirements * Standing for extended ...

SpendMend LLC

Warehouse Associate

West Valley City, UT · On-site

Recycling: Assist with regular recycling runs to dispose of materials properly. Qualifications: * Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with customers promptly.

SpendMend

Warehouse Associate

West Valley City, UT · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Recycling: Assist with regular recycling runs to dispose of materials properly. Qualifications: * Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills and ability to interact with customers promptly.

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Recycling Assistant information

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$12

$19

$26

How much do recycling assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling assistant in the United States is $19.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Recycling Assistants face, and how can they overcome them?

Recycling Assistants often encounter challenges such as sorting contaminated materials, managing heavy or bulky items, and ensuring proper waste segregation. To overcome these, it's important to stay vigilant about identifying non-recyclables and follow established safety protocols for handling materials. Teamwork is also essential, as Recycling Assistants typically collaborate closely with supervisors and other staff to maintain efficiency and safety in the facility. Regular training and staying updated on recycling guidelines can help you succeed and minimize errors.

What does a recycling attendant do?

A recycling attendant is responsible for sorting, collecting, and processing recyclable materials at recycling facilities or collection sites. They operate equipment, ensure safety procedures are followed, and may assist with maintaining cleanliness and organization of the work area.

What does a Recycling Assistant do?

A Recycling Assistant helps manage and process recyclable materials in facilities such as recycling centers, waste management plants, or local councils. Their duties often include sorting recyclables, operating machinery, ensuring materials are correctly separated, and maintaining cleanliness and safety in the work area. They may also assist with public education about recycling practices and help monitor the quality of recycled materials. Recycling Assistants play a vital role in reducing landfill waste and supporting environmental sustainability.

Which recycling pays the most?

Recycling assistants typically earn wages comparable to other entry-level environmental jobs, with pay varying by location and employer. Positions involving specialized skills, such as hazardous waste handling or operating heavy machinery, tend to pay higher. Certifications in safety or equipment operation can also lead to higher wages in recycling roles.

Is recycling a good career path?

Recycling assistant roles can be a stable entry-level job in the environmental sector, focusing on sorting and processing recyclable materials. These positions often require physical work and knowledge of safety procedures but can lead to advancement in waste management or environmental services. Overall, it can be a meaningful career for those interested in sustainability and community service.

What is the difference between Recycling Assistant vs Recycling Technician?

AspectRecycling AssistantRecycling Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require basic safety trainingHigh school diploma; may require certifications in safety or equipment operation
Work EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor recycling facilities, often in a team settingIndoor and outdoor facilities, operating specialized equipment
Job DutiesSorting recyclables, assisting with collection, maintaining cleanlinessOperating machinery, troubleshooting, and maintaining recycling equipment

Recycling Assistants typically perform entry-level tasks like sorting and assisting in recycling facilities, while Recycling Technicians handle more technical duties such as operating machinery and maintenance. Both roles are essential in the recycling industry, but they differ in skill requirements and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Recycling Assistant, you need a basic understanding of waste management processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sorting equipment, compaction machinery, and health and safety regulations is typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you work efficiently and maintain a safe environment. These skills ensure effective recycling operations, compliance with regulations, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

What is a recycling assistant?

A recycling assistant is a worker who helps collect, sort, and process recyclable materials to ensure proper disposal and environmental compliance. The role often involves operating equipment, following safety protocols, and working in waste management or recycling facilities. Basic knowledge of sorting procedures and safety training are typically required.
What cities are hiring for Recycling Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Recycling Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Recycling jobs? The most popular types of Recycling jobs are:
What states have the most Recycling Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Recycling Assistant jobs include:
Recycling Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,596 per year, or $19 per hour.

Recycling Plant Forklift Operator

Federal Recycling and Waste Solutions

Commerce City, CO • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Company Background

Federal Recycling is a leading independent recycling company with over 100 years of experience helping customers build profitable, sustainable waste management operations. As part of "Where Green is Going," we deliver innovative, forward-thinking recycling solutions that enable our partners to lead their industries in environmental responsibility.

Job Summary

We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused Forklift Operator to support daily operations at our Denver recycling facility. This hands-on role is responsible for safely operating forklifts and front-end loaders to move, load, unload, and organize recyclable materials throughout the facility.

The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced industrial environment and takes pride in maintaining safe and efficient operations. This position works closely with plant staff, drivers, and leadership to support daily production and material flow.

This position is based in Denver, CO and reports directly to the General Manager.

Responsibilities

Production & Operations

  • Operate forklifts and front-end loaders safely and efficiently.
  • Load, unload, move, and stage recyclable materials throughout the facility.
  • Support daily plant operations to maintain production flow.
  • Inspect materials and ensure proper handling and storage procedures are followed.
  • Assist with shipping and receiving activities as needed.
  • Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of safety hazards.

Safety

  • Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
  • Conduct pre-shift equipment inspections and report issues promptly.
  • Use proper PPE and maintain safe operating practices at all times.
  • Support a strong safety culture throughout the facility.

Logistics & Coordination

  • Coordinate with drivers and plant personnel to move materials efficiently.
  • Ensure materials are loaded and unloaded accurately and safely.
  • Assist with inventory movement and yard organization as needed.

Competencies

  • Experience operating forklifts and/or front-end loaders safely and efficiently.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced industrial environment.
  • Strong attention to safety and detail.
  • Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Good communication and organizational skills.
  • Recycling or warehouse experience is a plus.

Education / Experience

  • Previous forklift or heavy equipment operating experience preferred.
  • Recycling, warehouse, manufacturing, or industrial experience preferred.
  • Valid forklift certification is a plus (or ability to obtain certification).
  • Bilingual (English & Spanish) a plus.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Physical Demands

This role frequently requires standing, walking, bending, lifting, and operating industrial equipment. The position may require lifting up to 50 pounds and working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Employees may be exposed to dust, noise, heat, cold, and other industrial environmental conditions typical of a recycling facility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Federal Recycling is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Apply