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Recycling Factory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nucor

Smart Factory Operator

Hartford, WI · On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

We are known for our innovative sustainability practices and are the continent's largest recycler ... SUMMARY: The Smart Factory Operator I is responsible for operating and maintaining the Trumpf ...

The Azek Company

Recycling Operator

Ashland, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Factory and/or Production Line experience is helpful but not required * Must be able to stand and walk continuously throughout the shift * Must maintain a clean work area This position requires the ...

Workforce Strategies Inc

Factory Associate

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Our teams are experts in electronics recycling, industrial recycling, beverage container processing, materials trading, and aluminum and plastic sales. As a CNC Machine Operator , you'll maintain and ...

Nucor

Smart Factory Operator I

Hartford, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

We are known for our innovative sustainability practices and are the continent's largest recycler ... SUMMARY: The Smart Factory Operator I is responsible for operating and maintaining the Trumpf ...

Nucor

Smart Factory Operator I

Hartford, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

We are known for our innovative sustainability practices and are the continent's largest recycler ... SUMMARY: The Smart Factory Operator I is responsible for operating and maintaining the Trumpf ...

MJ Morgan Group

Maintenance Technician

Cleveland, OH · On-site

Oversee factory trash and waste removal, including recycling and daily waste collection between shifts. * Manage and coordinate building subcontractors. * Record maintenance activity for critical ...

Cannon Industries

$14 - $18/hr

... factory * Clean interior windows off the building * Periodically clean light fixtures and ventilation ducts * Maintain inventory of all cleaning supplies * Empty and dispose of recycled material

Cannon Industries

Custodian

Rochester, NY · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

... factory * Clean interior windows off the building * Periodically clean light fixtures and ventilation ducts * Maintain inventory of all cleaning supplies * Empty and dispose of recycled material

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How much do recycling factory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling factory in the United States is $15.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $15.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of recycling pays the most?

In recycling factories, jobs involving the sorting and processing of valuable materials like metals, especially aluminum and copper, tend to pay the highest wages. Skilled roles such as machine operators or supervisors also offer higher pay due to experience and technical requirements. Certifications in equipment operation or safety can further increase earning potential.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working in a recycling factory, and how can they be addressed?

Employees in recycling factories often encounter challenges such as operating heavy machinery safely, managing exposure to dust or noise, and adapting to repetitive or physically demanding tasks. Effective training, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and adherence to safety protocols are essential for minimizing risks. Additionally, teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and colleagues help ensure smooth workflow and problem-solving on the job. Many factories also provide opportunities for skill development and advancement into supervisory roles for dedicated workers.

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

To thrive as a Recycling Factory Worker, you typically need a high school diploma, basic mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of health and safety procedures. Familiarity with conveyor belts, sorting machinery, balers, and sometimes forklift certification are commonly required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and reliability are essential soft skills for maintaining productivity and safety. These skills ensure efficient processing of materials, adherence to safety standards, and a well-functioning recycling operation.

What is a recycling factory?

A recycling factory is a facility where various types of waste materials, such as plastics, metals, paper, and glass, are collected, sorted, cleaned, and processed into raw materials that can be used to make new products. These factories play a crucial role in reducing landfill waste, conserving natural resources, and minimizing environmental pollution. Recycling factories often use specialized machinery to break down and repurpose discarded materials, ensuring that valuable resources are reused rather than wasted.

What is the difference between Recycling Factory vs Recycling Technician?

AspectRecycling FactoryRecycling Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentFactory setting with machinery, conveyors, and processing equipmentOn-site at recycling facilities, operating and maintaining equipment
Industry UsageUsed to describe the facility or plant where recycling processes occurRefers to the individual performing recycling operations and maintenance

The Recycling Factory refers to the physical facility where recycling processes take place, involving machinery and processing lines. In contrast, a Recycling Technician is a worker responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting equipment within the recycling facility. Both roles are essential in the recycling industry, but they focus on different aspects: one on the environment and infrastructure, the other on hands-on technical work.

More about Recycling Factory jobs
What states have the most Recycling Factory jobs? States with the most job openings for Recycling Factory jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Recycling Factory jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Recycling Factory jobs are:
Recycling Factory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling Factory job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,194 per year, or $15 per hour.
Smart Factory Operator

Smart Factory Operator

Nucor

Hartford, WI • On-site

$18 - $23.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Nucor rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

186th of 516 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Details

Division: Rytec Corporation

Location: Hartford, WI, United States  

Other Available Locations: N/A

Welcome to Nucor, where our unique culture sets us apart. Joining Nucor means becoming part of North America's largest steel and steel products manufacturer, offering unmatched career opportunities and stability. We are known for our innovative sustainability practices and are the continent's largest recycler. Our vibrant culture, built on personal connections and teamwork, empowers every team member with the freedom to innovate and contribute to our collective success. Experience a workplace where safety, efficiency, and meaningful personal connections define every day, enriching both our teammates and the communities we serve.

Nucor supports its teammates with top-tier benefits like Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability Insurance, 401K and Roth accounts, Profit sharing, Pay-for-performance bonuses, Paid parental leave, Tuition reimbursement, Stock program, Scholarships and more.

Basic Job Functions:

SUMMARY:

The Smart Factory Operator I is responsible for operating and maintaining the Trumpf TruBend Press Brake equipment and related tools and machinery. In addition to running this equipment to supply door and parts production, the Operator will also provide parts analysis for producibility / time studies, sample part production, custom orders, and prototypes. This position may also perform other production activities, including but not limited to supporting the production team by operating machinery, as well as cleaning and maintaining equipment and the shop floor.

  • Operate the Trumpf TruBend Press Brake equipment and other machinery used in the production process or assist other machine operators.
  • Form parts to specifications and the proper order according to scheduling.
  • Manage and maintain files to ensure matching revision levels at all times.
  • Provide a great level of attention to detail and focus on the given task.
  • Perform prescribed preventative maintenance on machines and equipment as required.
  • Perform all dimensional inspections.
  • Detect and report defective materials or questionable conditions.
  • Inspect finished parts on a regular basis to ensure quality standards are upheld.
  • Remake any parts that are not to specification.
  • Work closely with management to resolve any product quality issues occurring during production.
  • Review weekly work schedule to ensure on time delivery and identify any potential production delays.
  • Maintain reliable and safe work practices while improving production rates, efficiencies, yields, and costs.
  • Must be willing to accept and receive supervision and assistance with regard to machine set-up. 
  • Must be able to operate with minimal supervision once trained by following work instructions and Standard Operating Procedures. 

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within Nucor; therefore, candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High attention to detail and accuracy for problem analysis and solutions.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds frequently. 
  • Ability to squat, kneel and stand frequently.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with an emphasis on proper phone etiquette.
  • Ability to work well independently and in a team environment.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics and technical drawings.
  • Knowledgeable in fabrication.
  • Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills in order to interact with employees and departments.
  • Strong organization skills, analytical, and keen attention to detail.
  • Ability to plan and execute multiple projects at one time.
  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers and/or other employees of the organization.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio and percent.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or general education degree (GED); or two to four years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nucor is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a drug-free workplace

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About Nucor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nucor Corporation is an American producer of steel and related products based in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the largest steel producer in the United States, the largest "mini-mill" steelmaker (i.e. it uses electric arc furnaces to melt scrap steel as opposed to blast furnaces to melt iron), and the biggest recycler of scrap in North America. As of 2021, Nucor was the 15th-largest steel producer in the world.

Industry

Primary metal manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1905

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