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Recycling Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Elyria, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Recycling Sorter

Dayton, OH

$13 - $16.50/hr

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 ...

Recycling Sorter

Dayton, OH

$13 - $16.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Recycling Sorter

Dayton, OH · On-site

$13 - $16.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

The Recycling Supervisor is responsible for operating the recycling plant on an assigned shift; this includes safety, system adjustments, production, staffing assignments, quality of goods, training ...

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Front-End Loader Operator

Massillon, OH · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

The Recycling Supervisor is responsible for operating the recycling plant on an assigned shift; this includes safety, system adjustments, production, staffing assignments, quality of goods, training ...

Kiosk Operator

Canton, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

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 ...

Kiosk Operator

Canton, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

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 ...

Recycling Sorter

Seville, OH

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

Recycling Sorters work as quality control line workers by hand sorting recyclable materials and trash from the recycling stream. Sorters are responsible to ensure unacceptable materials are removed ...

Recycling Sorter

Seville, OH

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

Recycling Sorters work as quality control line workers by hand sorting recyclable materials and trash from the recycling stream. Sorters are responsible to ensure unacceptable materials are removed ...

Recycling Sorter

Seville, OH · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

Recycling Sorters work as quality control line workers by hand sorting recyclable materials and trash from the recycling stream. Sorters are responsible to ensure unacceptable materials are removed ...

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Showing results 1-20

Recycling Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do recycling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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 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 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 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 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, 44% Part Time, 4% 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.

Equipment Operator

SA Recycling

Elyria, OH • On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

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 will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of different types of heavy equipment such as Liebherr or Sennebogen material handlers and Volvo front end loaders to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard.

This position will work outside in varying weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

Operating hours are from 8:00am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays from 8:00 am to noon.

SA Recycling offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Eligible for Safety and Performance Bonuses
  • Comprehensive benefits including affordable medical options, dental and vision care
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Growth opportunities and promotions from within
  • Weekly Pay
  • Referral Incentives
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE
  • Advancement Opportunities

Responsibilities of an Equipment Operator         

  • Preform pre- and post- operations inspections of assigned equipment according to Company policy to ensure windows, lights, mirrors, review cameras, and safety features are clean and operable and report any concerns, defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
  • Continuously check the condition of the equipment to ensure it is always operationally ready to minimize production downtime.
  • Determine load weights and verify against lifting abilities to prevent overloads and dangerous situations.
  • Safe and efficient operations of the assigned machine to move vehicles for decommissioning, debris to proper storage site, and the loading of trucks and/or train cars.
  • Aid in yard organization to help meet targeted production goals.
  • Preform routine maintenance functions of assigned machine (fueling, lubricating, and cleaning).
  • Backup and assist teammates in yard as needed.
  • Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.

Qualifications of Equipment Operator

  • High School diploma, GED Certification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 1 years’ experience running front end loaders and/or Liebherr or Sennebogen material handlers in the scrap metal, waste, or demolition industries preferred.
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus.
  • Ability to carry out instructions provided in written or oral form.
  • Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required.

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.

An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified). 

All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.


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