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

South Post Oak Recycling Center

Truck Driver

Houston, TX · On-site

COMMERCIAL DRIVER (CDL A REQUIRED) South Post Oak Recycling Center is a Houston-based trusted metal ... Communicate effectively with dispatch, scale operators, yard supervisors, and customers * Address ...

EMR Metal Recycling

Maintenance Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

EMR recycles ten million tons of material annually, everything from beverage cans to aircraft ... Experience operating tele-handlers, forklifts, scissor lifts, and high-reach equipment * Proficient ...

VLS Environmental Solutions

Forklift Operator

Hockley, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

... waste, recycling, wastewater treatment, and waste sequestration. Railcar Services VLS Railcar ... Operate heavy equipment and powered industrial machinery as required. * Operate forklifts with ...

TexMore Inc.

Welder

Manvel, TX

$19 - $20/hr

... heavy machinery, and other metal structures in our recycling facility. Safety, teamwork, and ... Work closely with mechanics and equipment operators to identify repair needs. * Maintain a clean ...

New

TexMore Inc.

Welder

Manvel, TX · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

... heavy machinery, and other metal structures in our recycling facility. Safety, teamwork, and ... Work closely with mechanics and equipment operators to identify repair needs. * Maintain a clean ...

New

PLA Buyer LLC

Forklift Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$1.5K/wk

Now one of the largest pallet manufacturing and recycling companies in the United States, PLA has ... operating machinery safely. Work Environment: * While performing the duties of this job, the ...

System One

Packer Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$17.50/hr

Operate machines to prepare industrial products for storage or shipment in a safe and effective ... Break down cardboard for recycling. Sweep and clean work areas. * Follow all safety policies and ...

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All JobsRecycling Machine Operator JobsRecycling Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Recycling Machine Operator information

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How much do recycling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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:

Recycling Machine Operator jobs near you
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.

Sorter - Metal Recycling Yard

Allied Alloys, LP

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
About Allied Alloys LP
Allied Alloys LP is a leader in processing stainless, vacuum, and air-melt quality alloys, specializing in high-nickel and high-temperature materials for demanding industrial applications. Our success is built on safety, integrity, teamwork, and operational excellence. We invest heavily in our people, our processes, and our community to ensure long-term success and continuous improvement.
Benefits
Allied Alloys LP offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan with Company Matching
  • Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD)
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay
  • Legal Shield Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Position Overview
The Metal Sorter - High-Nickel & High-Temperature Alloys is a high-skill, technical role focused on the accurate identification, segregation, and processing of specialty alloys used in aerospace, energy, petrochemical, and other high-demand industries.
This position requires proven, hands-on experience working with high-nickel, high-temperature, and premium alloy materials-far beyond standard non-ferrous sorting. The ideal candidate brings sharp analytical ability, strong alloy recognition skills, and the discipline to perform precise work in a fast-paced industrial environment. Accuracy, reliability, and sound judgment are essential to success in this role.
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
Safety & Compliance:
  • Follow all company safety policies and wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
  • Operate all tools and machinery in accordance with safety and operational standards.

Advanced Metal Identification & Sorting
  • Accurately identify and distinguish high-nickel, high-temperature, and specialty alloys using handheld analyzers (e.g., XRF), spark testing, magnets, and other verification tools.
  • Sort and separate ferrous, non-ferrous, and specialty alloys including-but not limited to-Inconel, Hastelloy, titanium, stainless grades, red/white metals, and high-temp superalloys.
  • Ensure materials are properly tagged, documented, and placed in designated containers (barrels, bins, pallets, or gaylords).

Equipment Operation
  • Operate processing equipment such as shears, cutters, saws, grinders, puckers, balers, and shot blasters.
  • Operate forklifts, skid steers, power lifts, and/or front-end loaders to move and load materials.
  • Support load pulling, material preparation, and truck loading activities.

Material Handling & Yard Maintenance
  • Safely handle and transport metal materials throughout the yard or warehouse.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area by removing debris and supporting yard upkeep.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor.

Requirements
Experience Required
  • Hands-on experience identifying and sorting high-nickel, high-temperature, and other specialty alloys.
  • Experience in sorting and preparing to vacuum quality.
  • Experience in scrap processing, metal recycling, foundry, aerospace alloy handling, or similar industrial environments.
  • Forklift and material-handling equipment experience preferred.

Skills & Abilities
  • Strong metallurgical identification skills with the ability to distinguish similar or visually deceptive alloys.
  • Ability to interpret analyzer readings and apply practical knowledge to real-time sorting decisions.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
  • Team-oriented with the ability to work independently.
  • Basic computer skills for documentation and data entry.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly and perform physically demanding work (standing, bending, repetitive motion).
  • Comfortable working in varied weather conditions and noisy environments.

Working Conditions
  • Environment: Work is performed in a recycling yard or industrial facility with exposure to noise, dust, and varying temperatures.
  • Hazards: Work involves operating heavy machinery and handling large metal materials; adherence to safety protocols is mandatory.
  • Physical Demands: Frequent lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods are required.

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