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Recycling Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Blain's Farm & Fleet

Stocking Crew Associate

Clinton, IA · On-site

$15.25/hr

Associates hired into a full-time role will become eligible for the following benefits effective ... Break down all cartons, remove packaging and take to recycling area. * Demonstrate awareness and ...

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All JobsRecycling Associate JobsRecycling Associate Jobs in Iowa

Recycling Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$7

$15

$27

How much do recycling associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling associate in Iowa is $15.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges recycling associates face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Recycling Associates often encounter challenges such as sorting materials efficiently, handling hazardous or contaminated items, and maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced environment. Staying organized, wearing proper protective gear, and following established protocols can help manage these challenges effectively. Many workplaces offer training and support to ensure associates are prepared to handle unexpected situations and work as a team to keep operations running smoothly.

What is a recycling associate?

Recycling Associates are workers responsible for sorting, processing, and preparing recyclable materials for reuse or proper disposal. They typically work at recycling centers, waste management facilities, or within organizations that handle large volumes of recyclable waste. Their tasks include separating materials by type, inspecting items for contamination, operating sorting machinery, and ensuring that all recyclables meet quality standards. Recycling Associates play a crucial role in reducing landfill waste and supporting environmental sustainability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recycling associate?

To thrive as a Recycling Associate, you need a solid understanding of waste sorting, basic safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with recycling machinery, conveyor systems, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong teamwork skills help ensure effective sorting and efficient workflow. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, minimizing contamination, and supporting sustainable waste management operations.

What is the difference between Recycling Associate vs Waste Sorter?

AspectRecycling AssociateWaste Sorter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety training
Work EnvironmentRecycling facilities, outdoor and indoorRecycling plants, outdoor and indoor
Industry UsageCommonly employed in recycling centers and waste managementOften used interchangeably with Recycling Associate in waste sorting roles
Job FocusSorting, processing, and preparing recyclablesSorting waste materials for recycling or disposal

Recycling Associates and Waste Sorters perform similar roles in waste management, focusing on sorting and processing recyclables. Both roles typically require similar credentials and work in comparable environments. The main difference lies in terminology, with 'Recycling Associate' often used in retail or community recycling programs, while 'Waste Sorter' is common in industrial recycling plants. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers find the right position in the recycling industry.

Is recycling a good career path?

Recycling associate roles can provide stable employment in waste management and environmental services, often requiring physical stamina and attention to safety protocols. The field offers opportunities for advancement and skills development in sustainability practices, but wages and job growth vary by region and employer.
What are the most commonly searched types of Recycling jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Recycling jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Recycling Associate jobs in Iowa? For Recycling Associate jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recycling Associate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Recycling Associate jobs in Iowa are:
Recycling Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,544 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Material Handler / Recycling Production Associate

Advance - Global Australian Professionals

Spencer, IA • On-site

$18.75/hr

Other

Medical, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Material Handler / Recycling Production Associate

Immediately seeking material handler / recycling production associate Monday-Friday 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM or 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Pay $18.75/hr Duties include but are not limited to: collect, count, load, unload, store, stack, sort weigh and separate a variety of different recyclable scrap materials. Prepare the materials for various production processes. Load/unload materials Work in outdoor seasonal climates Maintain safe work environment Other duties as assigned Why work for Advance Services, Inc. Advance Services is for and about people; we are your employment specialists. Enjoy our easy application process. You NEVER pay a fee! Weekly pay. Fun Safety and attendance incentives. Health benefits to keep you and your family healthy. PTO so you have time for you. Great referral incentives. Advance Services partners with the top companies in the area.

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