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Recycling Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Padnos

Machine Operator - Floater

Grandville, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States ... Position Summary Our Machine Operator (Floater) is primarily based at our Grandville, MI location ...

Ascend Staffing

Machine Operator

Tremonton, UT

$21/hr

Dispose of and/or recycle any waste in line with company and state environmental policy Production Machine Operator Shift Info * 2-2-3 Shift, 4:00 AM to 4:00 PM Production Machine Operator ...

New

Millwood, Inc.

Machine Operator (CornerBoard)

Warren, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

... wood waste recycling and removal services across the continental United States. Much more than ... machine operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining various production machinery ...

Padnos

Machine Operator - Extruder

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States ... Position Summary Our Machine Operators are responsible for safely operating and monitoring ...

Westrock

Machine Operator

Mooresville, NC · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

General Information Job ID ATR62370 Posting Job Title Machine Operator Locations NC Mooresville ... We are a major, recognized and growing company within the Paper/Packaging/Recycling manufacturing ...

Westrock

Machine Operator

Winston Salem, NC · On-site

$19.11 - $24.06/hr

General Information Job ID ATR57025 Posting Job Title Machine Operator Locations NC Winston-Salem ... We are a major, recognized and growing company within the Paper/Packaging/Recycling manufacturing ...

Pratt Industries

Paper Machine Operator

Wapakoneta, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Paper Machine Operator: Drive Innovation and Excellence in Papermaking! Are you an ambitious ... Using the paper recovered by our Recycling Division, all of our paper mills produce 100% recycled ...

padnos

Machine Operator - Nights

Fremont, IN · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States ... Position Summary Our Machine Operators are responsible for safely loading, transferring, blending ...

Career Search

Machine Operator

Bowling Green, KY

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Ensure all assigned machines are operating safely, efficiently and reliably, according to ...

Career Search

Machine Operator

Saint Peters, MO

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Ensure all assigned machines are operating safely, efficiently and reliably, according to ...

Career Search

Machine Operator

Marked Tree, AR

$14 - $16.50/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Ensure all assigned machines are operating safely, efficiently and reliably, according to ...

Career Search

Machine Operator

Lima, OH

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Ensure all assigned machines are operating safely, efficiently and reliably, according to ...

Career Search

Machine Operator

Bowling Green, KY

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Ensure all assigned machines are operating safely, efficiently and reliably, according to ...

Career Search

Machine Operator

Vandalia, OH

$16 - $19/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Ensure all assigned machines are operating safely, efficiently and reliably, according to ...

Career Search

Machine Operator

Lima, OH

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled ... Ensure all assigned machines are operating safely, efficiently and reliably, according to ...

Padnos

Machine Operator - Nights

Fremont, IN · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States ... Position Summary Our Machine Operators are responsible for safely loading, transferring, blending ...

McCLARIN Composites

Machine Operator

Hanover, PA

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

We are looking for experienced Machine Operators, to join McCLARIN Composites. The ideal candidate ... Cuts scrap product for recycling or grinding using electric cutting equipment. * May be required to ...

New

Alpla

Machine Operator

Vandalia, OH · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

... recycled packaging for top companies such as P&G, Unilever, L'Oréal, Pepsi, and more. ALPLA values ... Ensure all assigned machines are operating safely, efficiently and reliably, according to ...

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All JobsRecycling Machine Operator Jobs

Recycling Machine Operator information

See salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do recycling machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is recycling a good career path?

Recycling machine operators play a key role in waste management and environmental sustainability by operating and maintaining recycling equipment. The job often requires safety training, physical stamina, and knowledge of machinery, with opportunities for advancement in the waste management industry. It can be a stable career for those interested in environmental work and industrial operations.

What does a recycling operator do?

A recycling machine operator is responsible for operating and maintaining recycling equipment to sort, process, and prepare recyclable materials. They monitor machines for proper functioning, ensure safety procedures are followed, and may perform quality checks to meet environmental standards. The role often requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety protocols.

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 is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn higher wages. Roles involving CNC machining, heavy equipment operation, or working in hazardous environments tend to offer the highest salaries for machine operators.

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 pays the most in recycling?

Recycling machine operators can earn higher wages by handling valuable materials such as metals like copper, aluminum, and brass, which typically fetch higher prices at recycling centers. Skills in sorting, operating specialized equipment, and understanding market values can also contribute to increased pay. Generally, operators working with high-value materials or in facilities processing industrial waste tend to earn more.

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.

More about Recycling Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Recycling Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Recycling Machine Operator job openings:
What states have the most Recycling Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Recycling Machine Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Recycling Machine Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Recycling Machine Operator jobs are:
Recycling Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Goodwill Industries of San Diego County

San Ysidro, CA

$21/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for meaningful work and want to make a difference?  Do you want to gain valuable work experience? Joining the Goodwill team could be a great fit for you!  At Goodwill we live and breathe our Core Values of Creativity, Credibility, and Collaboration.  We are a mission-integrated organization that is funded by resalable goods. Last year alone, we were able to keep 10 million pounds of donated goods from hitting our landfills. Through the reselling of donated items, we can provide job readiness training and employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment. 


HOURLY RATE: $21.00 - $22.50

POSITION SUMMARY: Responsible for the operation and maintenance of the Recycling machinery and equipment, including baler machine, trash compactor, and forklift. Ensures processing, of recycling merchandise in a timely manner. Understands the whole Otay Outlet operation while following GISD policies and procedures.


Essential Functions Statements:

  1. Operates, inspects and maintains all Outlet Equipment according to established procedures. Makes sure equipment operates properly to maximize efficiency. When necessary, trouble-shoots the equipment, and performs minor repairs with the approval of management.
  2. In the absence of management assumes the responsibility of opening/closing the department, posting daily assignment sheet, making sure all ambassadors are in their designated area and reports any observations to management.
  3. Follows all safety and loss prevention procedures. Possesses high safety standards. Serves as a role model regarding safety.
  4. Fills out required logs, documentation required for the department and follows compliance guidelines in the department.
  5. Assists customers with their donations. Issue donation receipts.
  6. Work collaboratively with supervisor to ensure production goals.
  7. Utilizes 4DX methodology for achieving organizational goals.
  8. Performs other miscellaneous duties as assigned or directed.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Education: High School Diploma or GED preferred

Experience: Minimum of one year related experience. Safety Oriented, mechanical experience preferred.

Computer Skills: Skills commensurate with this position.

Certificates & Licenses: Must be able to be Forklift Certified

Other Physical Requirements: Some experience using manual tools such as screwdriver helpful but not necessary. Must be able to work 5 days per week, including weekends and evenings.

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