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Recycling Machine Operator Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator

Portland, ME · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

The Forklift Operator must possess knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses ... Strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

The Crane Operator must possess knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses ... Strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

Forklift Operator

Portland, ME · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

The Forklift Operator must possess knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses ... Strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

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Recycling Machine Operator information

See Portland, ME salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do recycling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling machine operator in Portland, ME is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $19.90 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 Portland, ME? For Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Portland, ME look for? The top searched job categories for Recycling Machine Operator jobs in Portland, ME are:
Infographic showing various Recycling Machine Operator job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,701 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Forklift Operator

Radius Recycling

Portland, ME • On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Radius Recycling rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Forklift Operator

The Forklift Operator is responsible for the operation of a forklift and/or skid steer to lift and move materials, machines, and/or products in many directions while ensuring that all efforts are compliant with the company Health, Safety, and Environmental standards. The Forklift Operator must possess knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

This position operates under flexible parameters. The primary goal of this position is to achieve excellence in all facets of the position. Providing the highest quality product safely, effectively, and efficiently decreases accidents and errors and increase profits.

Essential Functions

  • Environmental and Health & Safety (H&S)
    • Strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.
    • Provides a safe environment for all employees, customers, and visitors.
    • Follows all safety guidelines and protocols, including wearing of all PPE.
    • Attends inhouse certification program and retraining classes at specified intervals.
  • Operational Performance & Best Business Practices
    • Assisting with cleaning and related duties to maintain plant operations.
    • Operating a forklift and or skid steer in the movement of bins and equipment.
    • Assisting with yard/facility cleanup and maintenance.
  • Equipment & Maintenance
    • Complete paperwork associated with the forklift and/or skid steer or lifting accessories and report any equipment deficiencies or malfunctions to the proper supervisor.
    • Basic sorting of scrap, as well as metal and debris in preparation for processing.
  • Special Projects
    • Performs special projects or other duties as needed or assigned.

Job Conditions

This position is regularly exposed to all weather conditions. Physical hazards such as noise, fumes, and dirt are present due to the equipment, machinery, and scrap as would be found throughout the scrap yard. Safety shoes, hearing protection, respirators, face shields, and additional personal protective equipment as needed, must be worn to eliminate the risks associated with these hazards. Travel is not required for this position.

Handling multiple issues regarding safety and maintenance increases pressure. Workload may be unpredictable, and pressure can be substantial during peak times. Critical deadlines require considerable adaptability. Disturbances of workflow and/or irregularities in work schedule are expected and occur on an intermittent basis. Extra hours may be required, sometimes on weekends, weekdays, and holidays.

Physical Activities Required to Perform Essential Functions

Sitting, walking, bending, stretching is required regularly to perform job function, production, and environmental/safety responsibility functions.

  • Able to sit for 6-8 hours per day in two-hour intervals.
  • Manual dexterity to handle tools and the ability to move 50 pounds are regularly required to perform routine functions.
  • Vision must be sufficient to perform job functions as described above.
  • Good eye hand coordination and good motor skills.
  • Willingness to work outside in all conditions, as well as in a noisy and dusty environment, wearing all required PPE.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must hold valid Forklift and/or Skid Steer Certification, if required in the state or province you are applying to work.
  • Experience operating equipment in an industrial setting to help move product and/or material.
  • Must be at least 16 years of age for Canada and 18 years of age for USA.

An ideal candidate is:

  • Experienced working within the Scrap Metal industry an asset.
  • Able to read, understand, and follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills.
  • Able to handle multiple competing tasks and priorities.
  • Perform quality work efficiently with minimal supervision.

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

All U.S. applicants must be 18 years of age or older and all Canada applicants must be 16 years of age or older.

Radius Recycling participates in e-verify for all U.S. new hires.

An offer of U.S. employment by Radius Recycling or any of its subsidiaries is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen and background check.

All new hires must review and sign an Arbitration Agreement. This applies to all U.S. non-union employees.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Radius Recycling does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, marital status, disability status, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, age, prior industrial injury, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected status under local, state or federal law.

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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