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

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... recycling Plastic. We have openings for Production Line operators/laborers. The successful ... Experience in the Chemical Industry or Manufacturing that requires machine operation, piping, steam ...

Production Line Laborer

Houston, TX · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

... recycling Plastic. We have openings for Production Line operators/laborers. The successful ... Experience in the Chemical Industry or Manufacturing that requires machine operation, piping, steam ...

Millwright

Pasadena, TX · On-site

$71.64 - $74.39/hr

Knowledge in refrigerant handling and recycling Machinist: formally trained in operating lathes and mills for parts repair or manufacture Strong attention to detail with strong mathematical skills ...

Production Technician - RMA (USA)

Baytown, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Purpose The Production Operator is responsible for safely operating recycling equipment to meet ... Ability to work safely around machinery and follow instructions precisely . Competencies; Knowledge ...

Production Technician - RMA (USA)

Baytown, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Purpose The Production Operator is responsible for safely operating recycling equipment to meet ... Ability to work safely around machinery and follow instructions precisely . Competencies; Knowledge ...

Production Technician - RMA (USA)

Baytown, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Purpose The Production Operator is responsible for safely operating recycling equipment to meet ... Ability to work safely around machinery and follow instructions precisely Competencies; Knowledge ...

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Manvel, TX

$24.50 - $32.25/hr

Collaborate with operators and management to ensure equipment remains safe and operational. What We ... Work Environment Industrial recycling facility with exposure to: * Heavy machinery * Loud noise

Industrial Plant Janitor

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Empty trash and recycling bins regularly and ensure proper disposal procedures are followed.Operate ... machine operators to achieve quality products and maintain production throughput on equipment.

... recycle and reimagine waste for the benefit of society and the environment. Our Business Reworld ... Operating plant equipment, machinery, processes, performing permit sampling, laboratory tests ...

... recycle and reimagine waste for the benefit of society and the environment. Our Business Reworld ... Operating plant equipment, machinery, processes, performing permit sampling, laboratory tests ...

Industrial Plant Janitor

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Empty trash and recycling bins regularly and ensure proper disposal procedures are followed ... machine operators to achieve quality products and maintain production throughput on equipment.

Industrial Plant Janitor

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Empty trash and recycling bins regularly and ensure proper disposal procedures are followed ... machine operators to achieve quality products and maintain production throughput on equipment.

Maintenance Mechanic

Houston, TX · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

We recycle end-of-life tires (ELT) for reuse in a variety of ways. Every day, we can recycle up to ... Ability to read and understand written operating instructions and work order requirements.

... machine prompts and alarms, and ensures proper operation. * Monitors and documents downtime ... The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to ...

Showing results 41-60

Recycling Machine Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do recycling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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.

Production Material Handler

Reterra Corporation

Baytown, TX • On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

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Job description

Reterra Corporation is in the business of recycling Plastic.

We have openings for Production Line operators/laborers.

The successful candidate must work safely, be physically fit, operate a forklift, follow instructions, Record production data, and cooperate with co-workers. One specific position requires pumping, filtering, and loading liquid materials.

Reterra operates 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Consequently, this position would work rotating shifts.

Experience in the Chemical Industry or Manufacturing that requires machine operation, piping, steam, or electrical work, or maintenance would be helpful.

Salary range $14 to $15 per hour.

Company Description

Reterra is a leader in PET plastic chemical recycling in the US.


RETERRA logo

About RETERRA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Reterra, or 'Re-Earth,' is what we are all about. We take our planet's vital and finite resources, and recondition them to be reused in new ways as raw materials. We resell these recycled raw materials under the 'RetroSeed' product line. The word 'retrocede' is defined as to go back or return. That is exactly what we do- we take used PET plastics such as soda pop bottles, water bottles, and other streams of low value or contaminated PET and we return them to use. In doing this, we help lower our country's demand for foreign oil, and we create new jobs for America.

Industry

Recyclable material wholesalers

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1999