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Recycling Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Three River Recycling

Machine Operator

Baden, PA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Machine Operator Baden, PA Three Rivers Recycling is a private family-owned scrap metal company serving the Pittsburgh and surrounding area. With our 48 years of experience, we are the top metal ...

Plastic Recycling, Inc

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $17/hr

Requirements: Education and Experience * > 1 years of manufacturing, recycling, or grinding ... operating machinery and completing documentation Work Environment: This position works in a ...

Plastipak Packaging, Inc.

Machine Operator

Dundee, MI · On-site

$18.75 - $20.25/hr

Clean Tech is looking for experienced Machine Operator at our plastics recycling facility in Dundee, MI. Our associates are responsible for operating and maintaining recycling equipment, in an effort ...

Plastipak Packaging, Inc.

Machine Operator

Dundee, MI

$18.75 - $20.25/hr

Clean Tech is looking for experienced Machine Operator at our plastics recycling facility in Dundee, MI. Our associates are responsible for operating and maintaining recycling equipment, in an effort ...

padnos

Grinders - Machine Operator

Fremont, IN

$16 - $19/hr

We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States ... The manufacturing machine operator will be working with multiple shredders to shred plastic. It is ...

Padnos

Grinders - Machine Operator

Fremont, IN · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States ... The manufacturing machine operator will be working with multiple shredders to shred plastic. It is ...

padnos

Machine Operator - Nights

Wyoming, MI

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States ... Position Summary Our Machine Operators are responsible for safely operating and monitoring ...

padnos

Machine Operator - Nights

Wyoming, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States ... Position Summary Our Machine Operators are responsible for safely operating and monitoring ...

RugPadUSA

Machine Operator

Suffield, CT · On-site

$21.19/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for working as a team to create finished goods through the ... Feeding recycled material into the grinder • Maintain activity logs depending on workstation ...

RUG PAD USA LLC

Machine Operator

Suffield, CT

$21.19/hr

Machine Operator Job Responsibilities: · Examine machinery to address issues with production · Troubleshooting issues as they arise · Cleaning the areas around the machinery · Feeding recycled ...

Padnos

Machine Operator - Nights

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States ... Position Summary Our Machine Operators are responsible for safely operating and monitoring ...

Unifi Manufacturing Inc.

Machine Operator

Yadkinville, NC · On-site

$20.16/hr

Machine Operator We are seeking Machine Operators in Yadkinville, NC for day and night shifts. How ... We are the people behind REPREVE ® , the world's leading brand of recycled fiber. We help major ...

Career Search

MACHINE OPERATOR

Fremont, IN · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Since 1923, Miller Waste Mills has been a leader in "recycling and reusing", diverting textile ... Machine Operators at Miller Waste Mills are responsible for the set up and operation of equipment ...

New

Unifi Manufacturing

Machine Operator

Yadkinville, NC

$20.16/hr

Machine Operator We are seeking Machine Operators in Yadkinville, NC for day and night shifts. How ... We are the people behind REPREVE ® , the world's leading brand of recycled fiber. We help major ...

Unifi

Machine Operator

Yadkinville, NC · On-site

$20.16/hr

Machine Operator We are seeking Machine Operators in Yadkinville, NC for day and night shifts. How ... We are the people behind REPREVE ® , the world's leading brand of recycled fiber. We help major ...

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All JobsRecycling Machine Operator Jobs

Recycling Machine Operator information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do recycling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is recycling a good career path?

Recycling machine operators play a key role in waste management and environmental sustainability by operating and maintaining recycling equipment. The job often requires safety training, physical stamina, and knowledge of machinery, with opportunities for advancement in the waste management industry. It can be a stable career for those interested in environmental work and industrial operations.

What does a Recycling Machine Operator do?

A Recycling Machine Operator is responsible for operating machinery that sorts, processes, and prepares materials for recycling. They monitor equipment, ensure materials are processed correctly, and troubleshoot any issues that arise during operation. Operators may also perform routine maintenance on machines, keep records of operations, and follow safety procedures to ensure a safe working environment. Their role is crucial in helping reduce waste and support environmental sustainability.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators may earn over $70,000 annually. Roles requiring advanced technical skills, certifications, or experience with complex equipment tend to offer higher wages.

What are some common challenges Recycling Machine Operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Recycling Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment malfunctions and ensuring the consistent quality of sorted materials. To address these issues, operators should stay vigilant with routine maintenance checks and promptly report irregularities to maintenance teams. Additionally, working efficiently within a team and following detailed safety protocols helps maintain productivity and a safe work environment. Continuous learning about new recycling technologies and processes can also help operators adapt to changes in the industry.

What is a machine operator's job salary?

The salary of a recycling machine operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also affect total compensation.

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

To thrive as a Recycling Machine Operator, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and experience with industrial machinery. Familiarity with conveyor systems, balers, shredders, and safety protocols is typically required, and OSHA certification can be beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork skills make someone stand out in this position. These competencies ensure safe, efficient machine operation and help maintain productivity and compliance with environmental standards.

What pays the most in recycling?

Recycling machine operators can earn higher wages by handling valuable materials such as metals like copper, aluminum, and brass, which typically fetch higher prices at recycling centers. Specializing in sorting and processing these materials or obtaining certifications can also increase earning potential in the recycling industry.

What is the difference between Recycling Machine Operator vs Recycling Technician?

AspectRecycling Machine OperatorRecycling Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; may require technical certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, recycling plants, manufacturing facilitiesRecycling centers, waste management facilities, environmental sites
Job FocusOperating and maintaining recycling machineryInspecting, troubleshooting, and maintaining recycling systems
Common UsageUsed in manufacturing and processing plantsUsed in environmental and waste management sectors

The main difference between a Recycling Machine Operator and a Recycling Technician lies in their focus. The operator primarily runs and maintains recycling machinery, while the technician handles troubleshooting, repairs, and system inspections. Both roles are essential in recycling facilities, but they require different skill sets and responsibilities.

More about Recycling Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Recycling Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Recycling Machine Operator job openings:
What states have the most Recycling Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Recycling Machine Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Recycling Machine Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Recycling Machine Operator jobs are:
Recycling Machine Operator jobs near you
Recycling Machine Operator

Recycling Machine Operator

Kelly Services

Statesville, NC

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Kelly® Professional & Industrial is hiring a Recycling Machine Operator for a Manufacturing Company in Statesville, NC. 
Interviews will be required ! This position is NOT in Charlotte ! 
 
Shift: 
  • Day Shift 
  • 8:00 am – 8:00 pm 
  • 2,2,3 rotating schedule will be working every other weekend 

Payrate:
  • $17/hr 
  • Weekly Pay every Friday ! 
  
Duties: 
  • Operate the recycling machine, ensuring that the material is fed into the machine efficiently.
  • Monitor the operation of the machine to maintain quality and efficiency.
  • Lift and manage rolls weighing between 22 to 44 lbs, with occasional lifting of 55 lb bags of resin for resin mixes.
  • Work independently while maintaining attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization in the work area, as the recycling machine is not located in a climate-controlled environment.

Requirements: 
  • High school diploma/GED 
  • Meet the Age requirement of 18+ 
  • Previous warehouse experience 
  • Able to work in a fast paced environment
  • Able to work 12 hours shift  
  • Push, pull, and lift up to 55lbs 
  • Able to work in a fast paced environment 
  • Steel toe shoes required 

Work Policies: 
  • 100% Tobacco free facility , you can't leave premises to smoke or vape 
  • NO Jewelry , smart watches , or piercings permitted during working hours. (NOT allowed to cover piercings with band aid must be completely off) 
  • No strong perfumes  
  • Safety glasses and hearing protection will be provided by company  

APPLY TODAY!  
 
As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Get a complete career fit with Kelly®.

You’re looking to keep your career moving onward and upward, and we’re here to help you do just that. Our staffing experts connect you with top companies for opportunities where you can learn, grow, and thrive. Jobs that fit your skills and experience, and most importantly, fit right on your path of where you want to go in your career.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.

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