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Recycling Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operators - 2nd Shift Location: Dyersville, Iowa Position: Full-Time | Manufacturing ... By incorporating recycled content into its products, the company has prevented nearly 8 million ...

Machine Operators - 2nd Shift Location: Dyersville, Iowa Position: Full-Time | Manufacturing ... By incorporating recycled content into its products, the company has prevented nearly 8 million ...

Salary: $21 - 23/hour or DOE Machine Operators 2nd Shift Location: Dyersville, Iowa Position ... By incorporating recycled content into its products, the company has prevented nearly 8 million ...

Machine Operator

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$23.58/hr

Machine Operator (PowerFrame) Location: Red Oak, IA | Components Plant Pay: $23.58/hr with ... recovering, recycling, and reusing up to 99% of battery materials-setting the standard for ...

Machine Operator

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$22.67 - $26.67/hr

Machine Operator (PowerFrame) Location: Red Oak, IA | Components Plant Pay: Starting at $22.67 to ... recovering, recycling, and reusing up to 99% of battery materials-setting the standard for ...

Machine Operator

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Assists Machine operator II/Supervisor and Mold Change Team with mold changes as needed * Working ...

Machine Operator - 2nd shift

Norway, IA

$16 - $19.50/hr

Strives to reduce waste, recycle products whenever possible, and re-use resources when practical ... operating procedures or safety rules. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to speak ...

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Norway, IA · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Strives to reduce waste, recycle products whenever possible, and re-use resources when practical ... operating procedures or safety rules. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to speak ...

Machine Operator - 2nd shift

Norway, IA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

... and reassembles machinery. • Uses and maintains familiarity with assembly, packaging, and ... recycle products whenever possible, and re-use resources when practical. • Works safely at all ...

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Norway, IA · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

... and reassembles machinery. • Uses and maintains familiarity with assembly, packaging, and ... recycle products whenever possible, and re-use resources when practical. • Works safely at all ...

Alter Metal Recycling in Waterloo, IA is looking for a Shredder Operator to run this giant machine. The core daily work includes controlling the shredder system, feeding material via conveyors, and ...

New

Equipment operating experience. * Strong computer knowledge & efficiency. * Strong communication ... We specialize in asphalt, concrete, and chipseal coating, with additional expertise in recycle ...

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Recycling Machine Operator information

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 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 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Iowa? For Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Recycling Machine Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

KSI

Dyersville, IA • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Machine Operators – 2nd Shift

Location: Dyersville, Iowa
Position:  Full-Time | Manufacturing | Direct Hire |


JEDA Polymers is seeking team-oriented individuals who are eager to learn and grow within a hands-on, fast-paced production environment. 


JEDA Polymers, a growing manufacturer of engineered plastic resin, is hiring Machine Operators to join its 2nd shift production team in Dyersville, Iowa. As the only plastic resin compounder in Iowa specializing in engineered thermoplastics, JEDA continues to thrive by focusing on innovation, customer partnerships, and Midwest values—honesty, hard work, and teamwork.


About the Role
Machine Operators play an essential role in the continuous production of high-quality resin. Through JEDA’s structured training program, new team members will gain the skills to become Extrusion Machine Operators—setting up, calibrating, and operating extruders and auxiliary equipment. Operators support production goals while ensuring a clean, safe, and efficient workplace.


No prior experience is required—comprehensive, on-the-job training is provided.


Available Shifts:

  • 2nd Shift: Monday–Thursday, 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  • Note: Initial training will take place on 1st shift (approx. 1–2 months). Flexible training hours can be arranged.


What JEDA Looks For:

Ideal candidates are:

  • Eager to learn and open to training on various responsibilities
  • Able to multi-task with high attention to detail and minimal supervision
  • Comfortable working on their feet in a dynamic, fast-paced setting
  • Adaptable to changing workloads and priorities
  • Positive team players with clear communication skills

Benefits Include:

  • 4 Day Work Week! (note 3rd shift starts Monday night and ends Friday Morning).
  • Excellent Health Insurance Coverage (including Health Savings Account Option)
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance and Short Term Disability Coverage
  • 9 Paid Holidays & Paid Time Off
  • 401K Retirement with Company Match


Sustainability Commitment:

JEDA Polymers is committed to sustainable manufacturing.  As a plastic resin compounder, JEDA knows the importance of recycling plastic in our production process. By incorporating recycled content into its products, the company has prevented nearly 8 million pounds of plastic resin from entering landfills—driving both environmental and operational value.


Why Join JEDA? 

JEDA Polymers offers a workplace where:

  • improvement ideas and feedback are encouraged,
  • teamwork is essential,
  • personal growth and development are supported,
  • clear core values are our foundation,
  • employers/owners genuinely care,
  • and safety is high priority.


JEDA Polymers is a manufacturer of engineered plastic resin.  Partnering closely with customers to innovate, solve molding issues, and develop new products is the root of why JEDA Polymers was not only established but also the reason we continue to grow and thrive. Located in Dyersville, Iowa we are the only plastics resin compounder in Iowa specializing in engineered thermoplastics.  Our grassroots have always been in the Midwest, where we believe in solid relationships, honesty, hard work, humility and friendliness.