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Recycling Attendant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Opens/closes recycling convenience center facilities each day, following established procedures; locks/unlocks buildings/gates, activates/de-activates alarm system, and unlocks safe; reports problems ...

Recycling Center Attendant

Goleta, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Recycling Center Attendant LOCATION: Santa Barbara/Goleta FLSA EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt POSITION SUMMARY: Responsible for interacting with customers to assist in weighing loads ...

Essential Functions Monitors compactor/recycling sites at all times during regularly scheduled hours and ensures proper operation including placement of all trash and recyclables in designated ...

Knowledge of the processes used in collection and disposal of waste and recycling materials. Ability to follow instructions and manuals for equipment repair and maintenance. Ability to use tools ...

Solid Waste Attendant

Wadena, MN · On-site

$20.19 - $27.52/hr

The Solid Waste Attendant provides support in daily operation and maintenance of the solid waste ... Assists public with garbage, recycling, or household hazardous waste needs. * Cleans out pit area.

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Recycling Attendant information

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How much do recycling attendant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling attendant 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 is a recycling attendant?

Recycling Attendants are workers responsible for assisting the public at recycling centers, ensuring that materials are sorted correctly, and maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the facility. They help educate individuals about proper recycling practices, monitor bins for contamination, and may operate equipment to process recyclable items. Their role is important for promoting environmental sustainability and efficient waste management in the community.

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

To thrive as a Recycling Attendant, you need a good understanding of waste sorting procedures, basic safety awareness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with recycling machinery, weighing systems, and possibly forklift certification is typical for the role. Attention to detail, strong communication, and reliability help Recycling Attendants excel in interacting with the public and maintaining site organization. These skills ensure safe, efficient recycling operations and promote environmental sustainability.

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

Recycling Attendants often encounter challenges such as sorting contaminated or incorrectly disposed materials, working in varying weather conditions, and maintaining safety standards around heavy equipment. To address these issues, attentiveness to detail is essential, as well as a solid understanding of recycling protocols. Teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and colleagues help ensure a safe and efficient workflow. Most organizations also provide ongoing training and support to help attendants stay updated on best practices.

What is the difference between Recycling Attendant vs Waste Management Worker?

AspectRecycling AttendantWaste Management Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety training
Work EnvironmentRecycling centers, curbside pickup, waste sorting facilitiesLandfills, collection trucks, waste processing sites
Employer & IndustryMunicipal waste departments, recycling companiesWaste management companies, municipal services
Job FocusSorting recyclables, maintaining collection areasCollecting, transporting, and disposing of waste

Recycling Attendants and Waste Management Workers both operate within waste and recycling industries, often requiring similar certifications and safety training. Recycling Attendants focus on sorting recyclables and maintaining collection sites, while Waste Management Workers handle waste collection and disposal. Both roles are essential for environmental sustainability and are commonly employed by municipal and private waste services.

What states have the most Recycling Attendant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Recycling Attendant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Recycling Attendant jobs?

For Recycling Attendant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Recycling Attendant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,054 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Part-time Recycling Attendant

Luttrell Staffing Group

Knoxville, TN

$17/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Would you like to make a difference in the cleanliness of your beloved city? Luttrell Staffing Group is currently hiring Recycling Attendant positions in Knoxville, TN.
  
Details for Recycling Attendant Position:
  1. $17.00/hour
  2. Open Monday-Friday 10:00a to 7:00p, and 10:00a-2:00p on weekends
  3. Must be available Sat/Sun-10a-2p
  4. 4 locations-North, South, East and West-Must be available to work at 2/4 locations
  5. Part-Time | Long Term Temporary
  6. Zero Fees - you’ll never be charged for any screening service
  7. Fast Start Date
  8. Weekly Pay
 
Job Duties for Recycling Attendant Position:
  1. Open and close gated recycling drop-off centers as scheduled
  2. Staff assigned recycling and food scraps drop-off centers during operating hours
  3. Post signage when the site is temporarily unattended
  4. Assist members of the public with proper sorting of recyclable materials and food scraps
  5. Distribute City-provided educational materials to visitors
  6. Assist with visitor surveys as requested
  7. Monitor recycling and food scrap containers
  8. Remove minor contamination and properly sort misplaced materials
  9. Communicate with hauling contractors when containers require early service
  10. Control litter and maintain a clean, safe, and orderly site
  11. Ensure private trash dumpsters and food scrap containers are locked and used only for approved purposes
  12. Monitor and report unauthorized dumping following KKB and City guidelines
  13. Maintain basic records of materials hauled and center activity
  14. Track the number of visitors to the center
  15. Report safety concerns, incidents, or hostile interactions to KKB staff
  16. Attend required training provided by KKB and the City of Knoxville
  17. Follow established procedures and policies
Qualifications for Recycling Attendant Position:
  1. High school diploma or equivalent
  2. Able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
  3. Comfortable using hand tools such as brooms and litter grabbers
  4. Ability to walk, stand and be on your feet for duration of the shift
  5. Ability to lift up to 45 lbs
  6. Ability to stoop, bend, squat, kneel, twist and reach
 
If you have the experience and skills we're looking for, apply to Luttrell Staffing today! Call or text (865)212-3853 We are an equal opportunity employer.
 
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