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Recycling Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rumpke

Recycling Foreman

Columbus, OH · On-site

Recycling Foremen are responsible for ensuring that production and quality standards are met. The ... Work with plant manager to ensure that production and quality standards are being met. * Coordinate ...

Rumpke of Ohio, Inc.

Recycling Foreman

Columbus, OH

Recycling Foremen are responsible for ensuring that production and quality standards are met. The ... Work with plant manager to ensure that production and quality standards are being met. * Coordinate ...

Mazza Recycling Services

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Recycling Sorter

Tinton Falls, NJ · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Support daily recycling plant, yard, and warehouse operations by keeping work areas clean, safe, and organized. * Assist with equipment startup and shutdown procedures and complete basic visual ...

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 ...

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Recycling Plant information

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How much do recycling plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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 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.

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.
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What cities are hiring for Recycling Plant jobs? Cities with the most Recycling Plant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Recycling Plant jobs? The most popular types of Recycling Plant jobs are:
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Recycling Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling Plant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Recycling Plant Operations Lead

Federal Recycling and Waste Solutions

Commerce City, CO • On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Company Background and Job Summary
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.
We are looking for a hands-on Operations Leader to run day-to-day operations and personally perform maintenance and repairs at our Denver recycling facility.
This is a working manager position. The position is responsible for keeping the plant running safely and efficiently by managing production, leading employees, and working directly on equipment and facility maintenance. If you're the type who isn't afraid to grab tools, troubleshoot problems, and keep machines running, this role is for you.
This position is based in Denver, CO and reports directly to the General Manager.
Responsibilities
Production & Operations
  • Run daily plant operations to keep material moving safely and efficiently.
  • Make sure production goals are met with minimal downtime.
  • Work alongside production employees and lead by example.
  • Identify and fix operational issues as they come up during the shift.

Hands-On Maintenance
  • Perform hands-on maintenance and repairs on recycling equipment including balers, conveyors, forklifts, and front-end loaders.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, and basic electrical issues.
  • Perform routine inspections, servicing, and preventive maintenance to keep equipment running.
  • Handle general building and yard maintenance, including basic electrical, plumbing, welding, and structural repairs as needed.
  • Coordinate outside vendors for major repairs when required.

Safety
  • Enforce safety rules and make sure employees work safely at all times.
  • Conduct safety talks and ensure proper use of PPE and lockout/tagout procedures.
  • Lead by example and help build a strong safety culture on the floor.

Logistics & Coordination
  • Help coordinate inbound and outbound loads with drivers and vendors.
  • Ensure materials are handled, stored, and shipped correctly.

Business Support
  • Assist with production planning, maintenance scheduling, and equipment upgrades.
  • Monitor operating costs and reduce downtime and repair expenses where possible.

Competencies
  • Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills with industrial equipment.
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, physical, industrial environment.
  • Ability to lead a crew while working hands-on in the plant.
  • Knowledge of recycling operations, material grades, and plant flow is a strong plus.
  • Good communication skills and the ability to keep things organized and moving.

Education / Experience
  • Recycling, manufacturing, or industrial plant experience required.
  • Proven hands-on maintenance experience with heavy equipment and machinery.
  • Previous experience as a Plant Manager, Superintendent, Lead Operator, or Maintenance
  • Lead preferred.
  • Bilingual (English & Spanish) a plus.
  • Degree preferred but not required-real-world experience matters more.

Physical Demands
This role frequently requires sitting, talking, hearing, and using hands to handle materials or controls. Regular activities include walking, standing, and occasional stooping or reaching. The position involves lifting items up to 50 pounds.
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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