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Recycling Machine Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Beacon Recycling Inc

Millwright

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

At Beacon Recycling , our Millwrights are the people everyone counts on when production stops. They ... Performing precision repairs using welding, cutting, machining, fabrication, and mechanical ...

Beacon Recycling Inc

Millwright

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

At Beacon Recycling , our Millwrights are the people everyone counts on when production stops. They ... Performing precision repairs using welding, cutting, machining, fabrication, and mechanical ...

Michigan Wood Fibers

Bag Line Operator

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Located in Zeeland, we focus on protecting the environment by recycling wood products to create ... Responsible for daily and routine clean-up around the machinery to ensure consistent and ...

Michigan Wood Fibers

Bag Line Operator

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Located in Zeeland, we focus on protecting the environment by recycling wood products to create ... Responsible for daily and routine clean-up around the machinery to ensure consistent and ...

Michigan Wood Fibers

Bag Line Operator

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Located in Zeeland, we focus on protecting the environment by recycling wood products to create ... Responsible for daily and routine clean-up around the machinery to ensure consistent and ...

Michigan Wood Fibers

Bag Line Operator

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Located in Zeeland, we focus on protecting the environment by recycling wood products to create ... Responsible for daily and routine clean-up around the machinery to ensure consistent and ...

MillerKnoll

Machine Repair Mechanic

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$33 - $44/hr

... operator training. * May act in a lead capacity and provide direction to other employees ... Actively supports all environmental and recycling efforts including the disposal of hazardous ...

Millerknoll

Machine Repair Mechanic

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$33 - $44/hr

... operator training. * May act in a lead capacity and provide direction to other employees ... Actively supports all environmental and recycling efforts including the disposal of hazardous ...

JENNMAR Services

Level 3 CNC Operator

Clare, MI · On-site

XCAL TOOLS is a leading manufacturer of Recycling, Forestry, and Agricultural OEMs, hard-facing ... Responsibilities include: Set up and operate CNC lathes machines/ interpret and work from ...

Pratt Industries

Set Up Box

Livonia, MI · On-site

Prior work experience as a forklift operator. LANGUAGE SKILLS Able to read and follow instructions ... producer of 100% recycled containerboard. With over 9,000 skilled employees dedicated to ...

EDW. C. Levy CO.

Equipment Operator, ACE

Bridgeport, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Performing daily machine inspections and routine greasing, oiling, and fueling * Communicating with ... We are a unique, 100-year-old family-owned company that transforms our recycled products into ...

START

CNC Operator Apprentice

Macomb, MI · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Prepares machine and gages for operation * Operates machine and verifies conformance of machined ... Follow Housekeeping, Safety & Environmental requirements (recycling, labeling, spills and programs)

PETOSKEY PLASTICS

Line Operator

Petoskey, MI

$16.50 - $20/hr

... recycling technology to manufacture high-quality films, bags, and resins from post-consumer ... Adhere to Lock Out Tag Out and machine guarding policies and procedures * Be present during ...

PETOSKEY PLASTICS

Line Operator

Petoskey, MI

$16.50 - $20/hr

... recycling technology to manufacture high-quality films, bags, and resins from post-consumer ... Adhere to Lock Out Tag Out and machine guarding policies and procedures * Be present during ...

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All JobsRecycling Machine Operator JobsRecycling Machine Operator Jobs in Michigan

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 Michigan? For Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Recycling Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Recycling Machine Operator job openings:
Recycling Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling Machine Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Millwright

Beacon Recycling Inc

Muskegon, MI • On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Keep Heavy Industry Running. Solve Problems. Fix What Others Can't.

At Beacon Recycling, our Millwrights are the people everyone counts on when production stops. They diagnose complex mechanical failures, fabricate solutions, rebuild equipment, and keep our shredders and processing systems operating safely and efficiently.

If you're the type of person who enjoys taking something apart, figuring out why it failed, and putting it back together better than before, you'll fit right in.

This isn't a "change parts" maintenance position. You'll work on some of the largest recycling equipment in Michigan while solving new challenges every day.

What You'll Do

No two days are the same. You may find yourself:

  • Diagnosing mechanical failures on industrial shredders, conveyors, balers, loaders, material handlers, and other heavy industrial equipment
  • Performing precision repairs using welding, cutting, machining, fabrication, and mechanical assembly
  • Troubleshooting hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems
  • Reading blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings
  • Installing, rigging, relocating, and rebuilding large industrial equipment
  • Performing preventative maintenance that keeps our operation running
  • Responding quickly to unexpected breakdowns to minimize downtime
  • Working alongside operators, electricians, mechanics, and leadership to solve production challenges
  • Finding safer, smarter, and more reliable ways to improve equipment
What Success Looks Like

Our best Millwrights are:

  • Calm under pressure
  • Mechanically curious
  • Resourceful problem solvers
  • Highly dependable
  • Self-motivated
  • Safety-focused
  • Proud of doing quality work
  • Comfortable working independently without someone looking over their shoulder
  • Always looking for a better way to accomplish the job
You'll Thrive Here If You...

✔ Love diagnosing difficult mechanical problems

✔ Enjoy fabricating your own solutions

✔ Take pride in craftsmanship

✔ Like working with your hands in all weather conditions

✔ Can think through problems logically

✔ Don't mind getting dirty

✔ Appreciate variety instead of repetitive work

✔ Want to work around large industrial equipment

✔ Value being part of a hardworking team

What We're Looking For

We're more interested in your ability than your résumé.

Ideal candidates will have experience with:

  • Heavy industrial maintenance
  • Industrial electrical systems (480V, 240V, 120V, 24VDC)
  • Welding (MIG, Stick, TIG, oxy-acetylene)
  • Fabrication
  • Bearings, shafts, gearboxes, conveyors, belts, and rotating equipment
  • Hydraulics and pneumatics
  • Rigging and lifting heavy equipment
  • Reading mechanical and electrical drawings
  • Preventative and corrective maintenance

A Journeyman Millwright certification is preferred, but equivalent industrial maintenance experience is considered.

Work Environment

This position works both indoors and outdoors throughout our recycling facility.

You'll work around:

  • Heavy industrial equipment
  • Welding and fabrication equipment
  • Mobile equipment
  • Industrial machinery
  • All Michigan weather conditions

Occasional overtime, weekend, and after-hours work are expected when equipment needs immediate attention.

Safety Comes First

Nothing we do is more important than making sure everyone goes home safely.

Our Millwrights are expected to:

  • Follow all OSHA regulations and Beacon safety procedures
  • Use proper PPE
  • Perform Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
  • Identify hazards before work begins
  • Speak up when something isn't safe
Why Beacon Recycling?

We're a family-owned company that believes good people build great businesses.

Here you'll find:

  • Modern industrial equipment
  • Challenging work
  • A team that supports one another
  • Opportunities to grow your skills
  • Competitive pay
  • Excellent benefits
  • A company that values hard work, integrity, and safety
Ideal Fit

This role is ideal for individuals who are:

  • Independent and self-directed
  • Mechanically driven
  • Analytical problem-solvers
  • Patient and methodical
  • Comfortable making decisions in the field
  • Hands-on learners
  • Motivated by fixing problems and improving equipment
  • Able to maintain focus during complex repairs