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Recycling Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator- Mat Maker

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Summary: We are looking to add a Mat Maker/Machine operator to our manufacturing team in Crosby ... years as a recycling industry leader in manufacturing industrial rubber mats. With over 575 ...

Machine Operator- Mat Maker

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$19 - $23/hr

We are looking to add a Mat Maker/Machine operator to our manufacturing team in Crosby, TX who will ... years as a recycling industry leader in manufacturing industrial rubber mats. With over 575 ...

Machine Operator- Mat Maker

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

We are looking to add a Mat Maker/Machine operator to our manufacturing team in Crosby, TX who will ... years as a recycling industry leader in manufacturing industrial rubber mats. With over 575 ...

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift Shift: Monday - Friday 2:30PM - 10:00PM Pay: $20.05/hr. As a Machine ... Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by harvesting the urban forest.

Machine Operator - 1st Shift Shift: Monday - Friday 6:00AM - 2:00PM Starting Pay: $20.05/ hr. As a ... Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by harvesting the urban forest.

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift Shift: Monday - Friday 2:30PM - 10:00PM Pay: $20.05/hr. As a Machine ... Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by harvesting the urban forest.

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

EMR recycles ten million tons of material annually, everything from beverage cans to aircraft ... Support machine operators by using hand signals for larger material movements * Maintain a clean ...

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

EMR recycles ten million tons of material annually, everything from beverage cans to aircraft ... Support machine operators by using hand signals for larger material movements * Maintain a clean ...

Operator- Assembly (Night Shift)

Katy, TX ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

... consumer recycled resin and other sustainable materials. Igloo also has a growing direct-to ... Relieves other Machine Operators as needed * Train operators as required * Participates in ...

Operator - Assembly (Day Shift)

Katy, TX ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

... consumer recycled resin and other sustainable materials. Igloo also has a growing direct-to ... Relieves other Machine Operators as needed * Train operators as required * Participates in ...

Operator - Assembly (Day Shift)

Katy, TX ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

... consumer recycled resin and other sustainable materials. Igloo also has a growing direct-to ... Relieves other Machine Operators as needed * Train operators as required * Participates in ...

Operator- Blow Mold (Day Shift)

Katy, TX ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

... consumer recycled resin and other sustainable materials. Igloo also has a growing direct-to ... Operate Blow Molding Machines. * Responsible for visual inspection of production for defects based ...

Operator- Blow Mold (Night Shift)

Katy, TX ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20.75/hr

... consumer recycled resin and other sustainable materials. Igloo also has a growing direct-to ... Operate Blow Molding Machines. * Responsible for visual inspection of production for defects based ...

Pelletizer Operator (SBO)

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

This position is responsible for supporting the assigned pelletizing machine, ensuring both their ... Knowledge of recycled materials and the difference between HDPE/LDPE. * Knowledge of scrap ...

Lead Technician - Process

Katy, TX ยท On-site

$40K - $52K/yr

... post-consumer recycled resin and other sustainable materials and has a growing DTC business ... Assure compliance of all subordinates (Relief/Machine Operator, Material Handler) with safety rules ...

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Recycling Machine Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do recycling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling machine operator in Houston, TX is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Houston, TX?

For Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Recycling Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Recycling Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Recycling Machine Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,123 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Machine Operator- Mat Maker

NorthWest Rubber

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Summary:

We are looking to add a Mat Maker/Machine operator to our manufacturing team in Crosby, TXwho will be responsible for operating stamping presses and equipment used in the production of molded rubber products.

Job Type:Full-time, permanent

Schedule: 12 hour Rotating shift, 7 on 7 off -- Day Shift

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:


  • Operate equipment used in the production of molded rubber products.Regulate molding temperature, volume, pressure, and time.

  • Load, set up, and operate stamping presses to run production and produce quality output.

  • Ensure safety equipment is supplied by NWR properly and set the example by leading.

  • Report damaged or malfunctioning equipment to supervisors and or maintenance staff immediately.

  • Record machine downtime and assist maintenance personnel during troubleshooting and repair.

  • Understand the mixing process well enough to run it (and demonstrate);

  • Understand targets and promote their achievement. Ability to document and explain target misses.

  • Able to start up/shut down plant equipment (lights, compressors, cells).


Qualifications:


  • High School Diploma or equivalent.

  • Minimum 3-5 years of previous relevant experience.

  • Ability to speak, read, and write English fluently.

  • Prior Experience operating production equipment in aManufacturing environment.

  • Pre-Screen Substance test and Background check required.

Experience:


  • Experienced in operating presses, injection molding, or die casting equipment.

  • Knowledge of rubber, metal, or plastic molding and casting machines or similar.

Physical Requirements:


  • May be required to bend, squat, kneel, or stand for long periods.

  • May be required to lift up to 50 lbs.

Benefits:


  • 401(k)matching

  • Dental/Health/Vision insurance (shared premiums with employer)

  • Paid Vacation and 8 paid Holidays

  • Short Term Disability

  • Life Insurance

  • Safety boot allowance

  • Prescription Safety glasses allowance

  • Opportunities for growth and development

North West Rubberhas been in business for 50+ years as a recycling industry leader in manufacturing industrial rubber mats. With over 575 employees, NWR has 4 facilities in Canada and the flagship location inHouston Texas. NWR is seeking team players who can exemplify our core values of"RESPECT FOR ALL", "OWN IT", "RESULTS FOCUSED" -If this sounds like a fit for you, we would love to hear from you.


#NWRIndeed