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Recycling Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Red Boot Beverage

Production Line Operator

Des Moines, IA

$16 - $19/hr

Reports any machinery or quality issues to management. * Assists in setting up and cleaning up ... recycling are emptied as needed. * Works in all areas of production as needed. * Meets all Good ...

Alter Trading Corp

Heavy Equipment Operator

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

... machinery -- to process and move materials throughout our yard. This includes conducting ... recycling, or similar fields) ● Previous experience operating equipment such as excavators ...

Advanced Drainage Systems

Line Operator

Eagle Grove, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

... while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where ... Ability to operate heavy machinery, i.e. forklifts, in a safe manner * Reading and Writing skills

New

Advanced Drainage Systems

Line Operator

Eagle Grove, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

... while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where ... Ability to operate heavy machinery, i.e. forklifts, in a safe manner * Reading and Writing skills

Advanced Drainage Systems

Line Operator

Eagle Grove, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

... while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where ... Ability to operate heavy machinery, i.e. forklifts, in a safe manner * Reading and Writing skills

New

Novelis

Cold Mill Operator 1

Davenport, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Novelis is one of the world leaders in aluminum recycling and rolling and a leading sustainable ... Cuts jagged edges and scrap from sheet, using hand or machine shears and flattens leading edge of ...

ALPLA Group

Shift Supervisor Nights

Iowa City, IA · On-site

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Performs mold changes with the Machine Operator * Ensures the good quality of the product * Ensures ...

ALPLA Group

Packaging Operator

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... for the machines and work area Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are ...

ALPLA

Forklift Operator-Nights

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Truck machinery preferred • Safety awareness and quality consciousness Physical Demands: The ...

Boxmore Packaging

Forklift Operator-Nights

Iowa City, IA

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Truck machinery preferred • Safety awareness and quality consciousness Physical Demands: The ...

ALPLA Group

Forklift 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 ... Truck machinery preferred • Safety awareness and quality consciousness Physical Demands The ...

ALPLA Group

Packaging Operator

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... High cleanliness standards for the machines and work area Physical Demands: The physical demands ...

Vonachen Group

Laborer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$16/hr

Laborer The General Laborer is responsible for operating industrial power equipment as needed to ... g., recycling, painting, filter changes, fabrication machinery support, and coolant services)

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All JobsRecycling Machine Operator JobsRecycling Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa

Recycling Machine Operator information

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 operator do?

A recycling machine operator is responsible for operating and maintaining recycling equipment to sort, process, and prepare recyclable materials. They monitor machines for proper functioning, ensure safety procedures are followed, and may perform quality checks to meet environmental standards. The role often requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety protocols.

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 oil and gas, aerospace, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn higher wages. Roles involving CNC machining, heavy equipment operation, or working in hazardous environments tend to offer the highest salaries for machine operators.

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 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. Skills in sorting, operating specialized equipment, and understanding market values can also contribute to increased pay. Generally, operators working with high-value materials or in facilities processing industrial waste tend to earn more.

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:
Recycling Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling Machine Operator job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Temporary, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Plant Operator/Maintenance

RiverStone Group

Bettendorf, IA • On-site

$34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Here at RiverStone Group, we have spent the last 125+ years working to be the best at what we do. Through our limestone aggregate products, we provide the foundation to connect people with their friends, families, and work. Although most don't realize it, our products are used to build the homes, roads, and bridges that people throughout the Midwest use every day of their lives!
RiverStone Group, Inc., has an immediate opening for a Plant Operator/Maintenance in the general Quad City area. This is a full-time, hourly position working at one of several aggregate rock recycling centers on the Iowa or Illinois side. This is a Monday through Friday position, with some Saturdays required as business demands. Reliability and strong attendance are required to be successful in this role, as well as the ability to be a natural self-starter.
We offer a competitive rate of pay and benefits package including Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance, paid Holidays and Vacation, 401k with Company match, and more!
Major Plant Operator/Maintenance responsibilities include:
  • Assisting in all aspects of plant operation as assigned
  • Operating and maintaining heavy machinery, including possible conveyor belt systems, rock crushers, and front-end loaders (17 CY bucket, or similar)
  • Maintaining and repairing all equipment
  • Properly following all company policies and adhering to all governmental regulations
  • Welding, repair, and fabrication on rock crushing equipment associated with a rock crushing operation

The ideal Plant Operator/Maintenance candidate will have:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • A focus on safety and a strong work ethic
  • Experience operating and maintaining Heavy Equipment
  • A background in quarry operations is preferred
  • A strong mechanical aptitude
  • Proficiency in fabrication and welding is preferred
  • A valid driver's license
  • Ability to perform heavy lifting and rigorous physical activity in all weather conditions

What You'll Get:
As a member of the RiverStone team, you will get:
  • Starting wage of $34 per hour. The specific rate will depend on the successful candidate's qualifications and prior experience.
  • Health, Dental and Vision insurance with Flex Spending Account
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation
  • 401k with company match

This is a great time to join our team. If this Plant Operator/Maintenance description sounds like you, apply today!
Pre-employment physical, drug screen (with continued random drug screens throughout employment) and background check required. RiverStone Group, Inc. is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer for all including Women, Minorities, Veterans and Individuals with disabilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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