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Recycling Owner Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description 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 ...

Recycling Technician

Westampton, NJ · On-site

$16 - $22.50/hr

Operate recycling machinery to effectively process materials * Sort and assign appropriate ... like owners and to take charge of their own success. Whether an operator, sales rep, a graphic ...

Recycling Technician

Westampton, NJ · On-site

$16 - $22.50/hr

Operate recycling machinery to effectively process materials * Sort and assign appropriate ... like owners and to take charge of their own success. Whether an operator, sales rep, a graphic ...

A position at a company still owned and led by people who take the long view, an experienced ... Own safety performance across the recycling organization and make it a priority for every operating ...

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 ...

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 ...

We're a growing, family-owned scrap metal company with deep roots in the Atlanta area. Our yards ... Machine Operators & Forklift Drivers: * Experienced with heavy equipment and safety protocols.

A position at a company still owned and led by people who take the long view, an experienced ... Own safety performance across the recycling organization and make it a priority for every operating ...

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Recycling Owner Operator information

See salary details

$644

$4.4K

$7.7K

How much do recycling owner operator jobs pay per week?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average weekly pay for recycling owner operator in the United States is $4,395.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,403.85 and $6,538.46 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recycling owner operator?

Recycling Owner Operators are independent business owners who operate their own recycling trucks or facilities, collecting, transporting, and sometimes processing recyclable materials. They are responsible for managing their business operations, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. These professionals often work with municipalities, businesses, or recycling centers to facilitate the efficient collection and handling of recyclable waste. Success in this role requires strong business management skills, knowledge of recycling processes, and a commitment to sustainability.

What are some common operational challenges faced by recycling owner operators, and how can they be addressed?

Recycling Owner Operators often face challenges such as fluctuating commodity prices, equipment maintenance, and managing logistics efficiently. To address these, it's important to stay updated on market trends, invest in preventative equipment maintenance, and build strong relationships with reliable buyers and transport partners. Additionally, compliance with local and federal regulations can be complex, so maintaining organized records and staying informed about industry standards is crucial. Collaborating with industry associations can also provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.

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

To thrive as a Recycling Owner Operator, you need strong business management skills, a solid understanding of recycling processes, and relevant permits or licenses for waste management operations. Familiarity with recycling equipment, logistics software, and compliance systems is typically required. Excellent organizational abilities, negotiation skills, and customer service aptitude help build lasting partnerships and manage day-to-day operations efficiently. These skills ensure legal compliance, operational efficiency, and business growth in a highly regulated and competitive industry.

What are popular job titles related to Recycling Owner Operator jobs?

For Recycling Owner Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Recycling Owner Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $228,575 per year, or $109.9 per hour.
Rumpke Waste & Recycling
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Rumpke rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

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 to our customers and communities through a commitment to safety, service, the environment and the growth of our people.

When you join Rumpke, you’ll be part of a team providing essential services to millions of residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. You will enjoy competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, matching 401(k), life insurance, paid vacation, and more.

This is your opportunity to make a difference for you and your family. Come join our team!

The Recycling Supervisor is responsible for operating the recycling plant; this includes all operational tasks including but not limited to safety, system adjustments, production, staffing assignments, quality of goods, training, and the operation of small and heavy equipment as needed. Other duties including approval of staff hours as well as performing performance evaluations and disciplinary actions of direct reports.

Responsibilities of Position:

  • Manage the daily activities/performance of recycling employees in a safe manner in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations and company policies
  • Ensure all safety and compliance standards are met or exceeded
  • Train, direct and coach employees to improve their overall performance and productivity
  • Ensure proper PPE is utilized by employees, as well as compliance with Lock- Out/Tag-Out procedures is adhered to consistently
  • Ensure the daily housekeeping plan is followed and that all areas are cleaned effectively
  • Perform needed adjustments to plant equipment to increase efficiency, decrease downtime and to maximize quality and production
  • Ensure all operating systems are performing normally and report any problems to the maintenance department and management
  • Ensure all materials produced meet or exceed quality standards as set by management, customer requirements, industry standards, or other designated quality standards
  • Operate small and heavy equipment as needed to ensure production needs are met
  • Perform and conduct performance evaluations, monitor, and track employee attendance, complete disciplinary actions/meetings and all other required documentation relating to performance management
  • Maintain proper records and files including all compliance and personnel records
  • Maintain timely, appropriate, and professional communications with all internal and external customers
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Skills & Abilities Needed for Position:

  • Ability to supervise a diverse work force including equipment operators, laborers, and their work processes
  • Ability to multitask with the ability to keep several processes efficiently flowing continually
  • Computer proficient with the ability to operate several windows-based programs for automated processes, data collection and office-related programs for performing evaluations, disciplinary actions, and e-mail
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand how the plant equipment operates in order to make appropriate system and component adjustments
  • Good written and verbal communication skills to be able to communicate effectively and professionally with internal and external customers
  • Ability to communicate in a manner that promotes good relationships with employees

Experience & Knowledge Needed for Position:

  • 1-2 years operational or supervisory experience
  • General knowledge of the Recycling industry as it pertains to the processing of Single Stream Recycling (MRF) or Glass Recycling (Glass Plant) facilities is preferred
  • A general knowledge of and experience working with industrial machines and with associated control software including SCADA is helpful
  • Ability to obtain certifications to operate heavy equipment, small equipment and stationary cranes

Physical Requirements in a Regular workday:

  • Occasionally lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling a max of 50 lbs
  • Rarely lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling a max of 100 lbs
  • Occasionallyworking outside
  • Frequently working in changing temperatures and wet/humid conditions
  • Frequently working in areas of dust, odors, mist, gases, other airborne matter
  • Frequently stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling
  • Occasionally climbing and/or balancing
  • Frequently sitting/standing/walking

Additional Working Conditions/Aspects:

  • Possible exposure to high traffic conditions and/or tight driving areas
  • Exposure to residential and commercial waste
  • Ability to travel between offices, as required
  • Ability to work flexible hours; expected to work nights and weekends as needed
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and/or holidays
  • Must be available for 24-hour emergency calls
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States
  • Valid driver's license (if applicable)
  • Must successfully complete pre-employment testing
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language

This job description is intended to describe the general nature, complexity, and level of work to be performed by employees assigned to this position and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. It does not prescribe or restrict the work that may be assigned. Furthermore, this does not establish an employment contract and is subject to change at the discretion of the company.

Rumpke Waste and Recycling is committed to equality in all aspects of employment. It is Rumpke's policy to provide equal opportunities to all employees and potential employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disabili ty status.

QualificationsEducationRequired

High School or better.

Preferred

General Education Diploma or better.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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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About Rumpke

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rumpke, centered in Cincinnati, OH, US, is a leading environmental solutions provider serving the waste and recycling industry. The company, with its official website at rumpke.com, is established on the principle of providing excellent customer service alongside innovative and sustainable solutions. Rumpke offers a wide array of services, including residential, commercial, and industrial waste collections, in addition to recycling programs and landfilling services. The company was founded in 1932 by William F. Rumpke, initially as a junkyard, but evolved over time into one of the most trusted waste management providers.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

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