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Recycling Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

KBS

Corrugate Warehouse Associate

Springfield, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Warehouse Associate KBS is looking for motivated, high-energy Warehouse Associates (Corrugate Recycler) to join our team for immediate full-time, permanent positions. These positions are primarily ...

SNI USA Inc

Warehouse Associate

Lorton, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Warehouse Associate * Check in stock orders that are delivered * Pull items for install jobs ... Take out trash, recycling and pallets * Sweep warehouse when necessary * Complete any odd jobs ...

Dufry

Stock Associate

Dulles, VA · On-site

$17.78/hr

Advertised Compensation: $17.78 an hour This Stock Associate Job Is for You, If You Enjoy ... recycling Required Qualifications: * Attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy * Good time ...

Dufry

Stock Associate

Dulles, VA · On-site

$17.78/hr

Advertised Compensation: $17.78 an hour This Stock Associate Job Is for You, If You Enjoy ... recycling Required Qualifications: * Attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy * Good time ...

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All JobsRecycling Associate JobsRecycling Associate Jobs in Washington

Recycling Associate information

See Washington salary details

$8

$18

$32

How much do recycling associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling associate in Washington is $18.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recycling jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Recycling jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Recycling Associate jobs in Washington?

For Recycling Associate jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Recycling Associate jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Recycling Associate jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Recycling Associate job openings:

Recycling Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling Associate job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,036 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Lead Environmental Technician/ Environmental Technician (Upper Marlboro)

Compost Crew

Upper Marlboro, MD • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Position Overview
Do you have a passion for the environment and sustainability? Are you excited at the prospect of being a key contributor to the growth of a community-focused recycling site? We're hiring a Lead Organics Recycling Associate/Organics Recycling Associate to lead or assist composting operations at our innovative Compost Outposts located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. As Lead Organics Recycling Associate/Organics Recycling Associate, you'll work closely with our team to turn food scraps from our customer base into top-quality, nutrient-rich compost. You'll have the chance to develop your technical, mechanical and environmental expertise. This is a great opportunity for you if you want to build your career in sustainability while you earn competitive pay and enjoy comprehensive benefits. This is a full-time position with hours from 7 am - 4 pm, Mon. - Fri. Starting pay $20 - $25/hr.
Does this describe you?
  • Enthusiasm for the mission of protecting the planet and reducing waste
  • Knowledge of composting principles, science, methods and processes
  • At least 1 year experience in related field such as composting, agriculture or commercial production
  • Task leadership and work direction ability
  • Safety-first orientation
  • Detail-orientation
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Disciplined adherence to instructions and procedures
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
  • U.S-issued driver's license in good standing
  • Clean driving record
  • Ability to obtain DOT medical card & pass drug/alcohol test (company pays for exam & test)
  • High school diploma, GED or equivalent
  • Ability to lift 60 pounds up to 200 times per day
  • Access to reliable transportation - public transportation and rideshare services are not viable options
  • U.S. employment authorization

Other Helpful Background
  • Team leader experience
  • Knowledge/experience with farm equipment, machinery operations and preventative maintenance
  • Maryland Compost Facility Operators certification - if you don't have certification, we'll help you obtain it
  • Experience working outside in all weather conditions
  • Manufacturing team leaders who wish to explore a career in composting are encouraged to apply

Key Responsibilities
  • Manage the composting process by checking key vitals and then adjusting process controls to maintain an optimal environment for our aerobic microbes.
  • Operate and perform basic preventative maintenance on composting machinery
  • Maintain site conditions and records in accordance with State regulatory requirements
  • Perform daily decontamination of food scrap feedstocks from our collections routes
  • Serve as safety role model and follow safety procedures
  • Manage and execute site improvement projects
  • Communicate site conditions and status with supervisors

Compensation and Benefits
  • Starting pay $20 - 25/hr
  • Top-tier medical insurance with generous contribution for self and dependents
  • Dental, vision, life, ADD and long-term disability insurance
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Paid Time Off/Paid holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
    Schedule:
  • Work typically occurs from 7 am - 4 pm, Mon. - Fri. Work hours may vary based on weather and operational requirements.

Grow Your Career at Compost Crew
Join us at Compost Crew, a locally owned fast-growing organics recycling company based in Maryland. We inspire people to make food waste recycling part of everyday life through easy, reliable, and rewarding solutions. We're rescuing over 30 million pounds of unwanted food scraps from the landfill per year, helping to retain valuable nutrients by converting the food scraps into a rich soil amendment - compost. Compost Crew is the largest organic recycling company in our region, serving over 20,000 homes, businesses, communities and governments throughout Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. We're innovative leaders in the elimination of food waste, revitalization of our soil and sustainability. At Compost Crew, you'll enjoy a friendly work environment where you'll be treated with appreciation and respect. You'll make a real difference in the well-being of our community and environment as you help create a world where every scrap of food is rescued or recycled.
EEO Employer
Learn more about Compost Crew at:
https://compostcrew.com
Job Type: Full-time

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