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Recycling Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Recycling Operator I is responsible for safely operating and supporting recycling equipment and processes, maintaining material flow and quality standards, and identifying and responding to ...

New

Role Summary The Recycling Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and high-quality processing of copper. This plant serves as the seed for all future recycling technology and ...

As a Plastic Recycling Operator , you will play a direct role in our recycling process by transforming PVC material into valuable recycled material used in VEKA's Outdoor Living Products (OLP). If ...

As a Plastic Recycling Operator , you will play a direct role in our recycling process by transforming PVC material into valuable recycled material used in VEKA's Outdoor Living Products (OLP). If ...

Operator Oil Recycling

Rollinsford, NH ยท On-site

$28 - $32/hr

We are looking for an enthusiastic Oil Recycling Operator to join our tight nit group in Rollinsford, NH team! This is a labor-intensive role with an opportunity to learn various areas. You will be ...

Operator Oil Recycling

Rollinsford, NH ยท On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

We are looking for an enthusiastic Oil Recycling Operator to join our tight nit group in Rollinsford, NH team! This is a labor-intensive role with an opportunity to learn various areas. You will be ...

We are looking for an enthusiastic Oil Recycling Operator to join our tight nit group in Rollinsford, NH team! This is a labor-intensive role with an opportunity to learn various areas. You will be ...

Operator Oil Recycling

Rollinsford, NH ยท On-site

$28 - $32/hr

We are looking for an enthusiastic Oil Recycling Operator to join our tight nit group in Rollinsford, NH team! This is a labor-intensive role with an opportunity to learn various areas. You will be ...

JPC-12535 Tekberry is seeking a reliable and safety-focused Battery Recycling Operator to support EV battery recycling operations with our client, a leader in the automotive and mobility services ...

Recycle Operator

Carlsbad, NM ยท On-site

$11.50 - $14.25/hr

The Recycle Operator assists in the daily operation of water recycling systems by performing ... Perform daily visual inspections of water recycling facilities and report abnormal conditions to ...

Recycle Operator

Carlsbad, NM ยท On-site

$11.50 - $14.25/hr

The Recycle Operator assists in the daily operation of water recycling systems by performing ... Perform daily visual inspections of water recycling facilities and report abnormal conditions to ...

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Recycling Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do recycling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recycling operator?

Recycling Operators are professionals responsible for sorting, processing, and managing recyclable materials at recycling facilities. Their duties include operating machinery, monitoring the recycling process, ensuring materials are correctly separated, and maintaining safety standards. They play a crucial role in reducing landfill waste by making sure that materials like paper, plastic, glass, and metals are properly recycled. Recycling Operators may also assist with maintenance of equipment and keep records of materials processed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recycling operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recycling Operator, you need knowledge of waste management processes, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sorting machinery, conveyor systems, and sometimes forklift operation certification is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong teamwork skills help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient recycling operations and contribute to environmental sustainability.

What are some common challenges recycling operators face during their shifts and how can they be managed?

Recycling Operators often encounter challenges such as sorting contaminated materials, handling heavy machinery, and maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced environment. Managing these challenges requires attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and effective communication with team members. Operators are encouraged to stay updated on best practices for material sorting and equipment operation, and to participate in regular safety trainings offered by their employers. Teamwork and a proactive attitude can help address issues quickly and keep the recycling process running smoothly.

What is the difference between Recycling Operator vs Waste Management Technician?

AspectRecycling OperatorWaste Management Technician
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, CDL may be preferredRequires OSHA safety training, possibly hazardous waste certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, recycling plants, waste processing facilitiesLandfills, waste collection sites, treatment plants
Industry UsageRecycling centers, waste management companiesMunicipal waste departments, environmental services

Recycling Operators focus on sorting and processing recyclable materials in recycling facilities, while Waste Management Technicians handle waste collection, disposal, and environmental compliance. Both roles require safety training and are essential in waste management industries, but they differ in daily tasks and work environments.

More about Recycling Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Recycling Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Recycling Operator job openings:

What states have the most Recycling Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Recycling Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Recycling Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Recycling Operator

Return Polymers, Inc.

Wilmington, OH โ€ข On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Hours: 6:45AM to 7PM 2/2/3

Pay Rate: $19 per hour

Job Summary

The AZEK Company/Return Polymers Wilmington division is seeking a Recycling Operator I to join our Recycling team. This is a hands-on manufacturing role for individuals who are safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and comfortable operating industrial equipment in a fast-paced production environment.

The Recycling Operator I is responsible for safely operating and supporting recycling equipment and processes, maintaining material flow and quality standards, and identifying and responding to equipment or process issues. Successful operators are expected to develop proficiency across multiple areas of the recycling process and work independently after completing required training.

This position reports to the Recycling Production Supervisor.

Performance Expectations & Key Responsibilities

  1. Safety & Compliance Performance

You are expected to maintain a safe work environment at all times by:

  • Following all plant safety procedures without exception
  • Consistently using proper Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures to prevent unsafe equipment use
  • Responding correctly and immediately to all emergency alarms and plant alerts
  • Demonstrating safe behavior in all forklift and equipment operations
  • Actively contributing to an incident-free workplace

  1. Equipment Operation & Reliability

You are expected to safely and effectively operate equipment to support continuous production by:

  • Operating a forklift safely and efficiently to move and stage materials
  • Supporting and/or operating sort deck operations to ensure proper material flow
  • Performing pre-shred operations, including staging and preparing materials for processing
  • Completing bale loading operations safely and accurately for shipment or storage
  • Following all start-up, shutdown, and operational procedures as trained
  • Reporting equipment issues promptly to minimize downtime

  1. Material Quality & Processing Performance

You are expected to maintain high standards of material accuracy and quality by:

  • Accurately identifying and sorting plastic materials according to specifications
  • Ensuring materials are properly separated and directed through the correct process flow
  • Supporting consistent production of clean, usable output materials
  • Reducing contamination through attention to detail and correct sorting practices

  1. Workplace Organization & Standards

You are expected to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work environment by:

  • Following 5S and housekeeping standards at all times
  • Keeping work areas organized, safe, and free of hazards
  • Supporting smooth workflow through proper staging and material placement
  • Maintaining compliance with plant organization expectations

  1. Teamwork & Operational Support

You are expected to contribute to overall team success by:

  • Communicating issues or concerns clearly and in a timely manner
  • Working collaboratively with supervisors, maintenance, and quality teams
  • Following direction while also taking ownership of assigned tasks
  • Supporting shift goals and helping maintain production flow

Performance Standard for Success

You are considered successful in this role when you:

  • Work safely every shift with no preventable safety violations
  • Maintain consistent production support with minimal downtime impact
  • Accurately sort and handle materials with low contamination levels
  • Operate equipment safely and efficiently as trained
  • Maintain clean, organized, and compliant work areas
  • Demonstrate reliability, accountability, and teamwork in daily work

Equal Opportunity Employer

The AZEK Company has been acquired by James Hardie. James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with brands including Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®. With 8,000+ employees worldwide, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.