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Recycling Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Recology

Mechanic Assistant (Recycling Plant)

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $24.50/hr

Recology Sonoma Marin THE ROLE OF A MECHANIC ASSISTANT - Recycling Plant & Building Maintenance Swing Shift: 2PM - 10:30PM w/rotating Saturdays Under direct supervision, supports the servicing ...

J.P. Mascaro & Sons

Recycling Sorter

Birdsboro, PA

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

With its beautiful infrastructure, the complex looks more like a resort than a recycling plant. What You Will Do: * Sort materials according to company procedures and place in designate bins

J.P. Mascaro & Sons

Recycling Sorter

Birdsboro, PA · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

With its beautiful infrastructure, the complex looks more like a resort than a recycling plant. What You Will Do: * Sort materials according to company procedures and place in designate bins

J.P. Mascaro & Sons

Recycling Sorter

Birdsboro, PA · On-site

$12.50 - $15.75/hr

With its beautiful infrastructure, the complex looks more like a resort than a recycling plant. What You Will Do: * Sort materials according to company procedures and place in designate bins

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How much do recycling plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling plant in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a recycling plant do?

A recycling plant is a facility where used materials such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal are collected, sorted, cleaned, and processed so they can be reused in manufacturing new products. The main goal of a recycling plant is to reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and minimize environmental impact by diverting recyclable materials from landfills. Recycling plants use various machines and manual labor to separate and prepare materials for reuse or resale to manufacturers.

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

To thrive as a Recycling Plant Worker, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to safety procedures, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sorting and baling machinery, conveyor systems, and sometimes forklift certification are typically required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and adaptability help individuals stand out in this fast-paced environment. These skills and qualities ensure the efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible operation of recycling processes.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working in a recycling plant, and how are they typically addressed?

Employees in a recycling plant often encounter challenges such as ensuring proper sorting of materials, maintaining safety standards around heavy machinery, and dealing with fluctuating material volumes. Teams typically address these challenges through thorough training, clear safety protocols, and the use of personal protective equipment. Regular communication and collaboration with supervisors and maintenance staff play a crucial role in resolving issues quickly and maintaining an efficient workflow. Additionally, many plants foster a team-oriented environment to support continuous improvement and on-the-job learning.
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Recycling Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling Plant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Contract, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Recycling Plant Forklift Operator

Federal Recycling and Waste Solutions

Commerce City, CO • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Background
Federal Recycling is a leading independent recycling company with over 100 years of experience helping customers build profitable, sustainable waste management operations. As part of "Where Green is Going," we deliver innovative, forward-thinking recycling solutions that enable our partners to lead their industries in environmental responsibility.
Job Summary
We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused Forklift Operator to support daily operations at our Denver recycling facility. This hands-on role is responsible for safely operating forklifts and front-end loaders to move, load, unload, and organize recyclable materials throughout the facility.
The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced industrial environment and takes pride in maintaining safe and efficient operations. This position works closely with plant staff, drivers, and leadership to support daily production and material flow.
This position is based in Denver, CO and reports directly to the General Manager.
Responsibilities
Production & Operations
  • Operate forklifts and front-end loaders safely and efficiently.
  • Load, unload, move, and stage recyclable materials throughout the facility.
  • Support daily plant operations to maintain production flow.
  • Inspect materials and ensure proper handling and storage procedures are followed.
  • Assist with shipping and receiving activities as needed.
  • Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of safety hazards.

Safety
  • Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
  • Conduct pre-shift equipment inspections and report issues promptly.
  • Use proper PPE and maintain safe operating practices at all times.
  • Support a strong safety culture throughout the facility.

Logistics & Coordination
  • Coordinate with drivers and plant personnel to move materials efficiently.
  • Ensure materials are loaded and unloaded accurately and safely.
  • Assist with inventory movement and yard organization as needed.

Competencies
  • Experience operating forklifts and/or front-end loaders safely and efficiently.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced industrial environment.
  • Strong attention to safety and detail.
  • Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Good communication and organizational skills.
  • Recycling or warehouse experience is a plus.

Education / Experience
  • Previous forklift or heavy equipment operating experience preferred.
  • Recycling, warehouse, manufacturing, or industrial experience preferred.
  • Valid forklift certification is a plus (or ability to obtain certification).
  • Bilingual (English & Spanish) a plus.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Physical Demands
This role frequently requires standing, walking, bending, lifting, and operating industrial equipment. The position may require lifting up to 50 pounds and working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Employees may be exposed to dust, noise, heat, cold, and other industrial environmental conditions typical of a recycling facility.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Federal Recycling is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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