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Recycling Operator Jobs in Ohio (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 ...

Equipment Operator

Elyria, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Equipment Operator SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable and experienced Equipment Operator to join our team. As an ...

Equipment Operator

Elyria, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable and experienced Equipment Operator to join our team. As an Equipment Operator, you ...

Equipment Operator

Elyria, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable and experienced Equipment Operator to join our team. As an Equipment Operator, you ...

Equipment Operator

Elyria, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Equipment Operator SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable and experienced Equipment Operator to join our team. As an ...

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking ... As a Front-End Loader Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of ...

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Front-End Loader (Wheel Loader) Operator SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a dependable and experienced individual to join our team ...

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste and recycling industry. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional waste and recycling solutions ...

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking ... As a Front-End Loader Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of ...

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste and recycling industry. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional waste and recycling solutions ...

The NF Kiosk Operator acts as the primary point of contact with our suppliers and is responsible ... SA Recycling offers: * Competitive Pay * Eligible for Safety and Performance Bonuses * Full time ...

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Recycling Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do recycling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling operator in Ohio is $22.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.58 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.

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Recycling Operator jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Recycling Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Recycling Operator job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,897 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Recycling Operator

The Azek Company

Wilmington, OH • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


The AZEK Company rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


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.


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