As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor
Spanaway, WA · On-site
$21.15 - $24.75/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor
Spanaway, WA · On-site
$21.15 - $24.75/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor
Flower Mound, TX · On-site
$18.30 - $21.65/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor
Flower Mound, TX · On-site
$18.30 - $21.65/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor
Bolingbrook, IL · On-site
$20.45 - $23.65/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor
Bolingbrook, IL · On-site
$20.45 - $23.65/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor *1st Shift
Polk City, FL · On-site
$18.90 - $22.40/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor *1st Shift
Polk City, FL · On-site
$18.90 - $22.40/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor *2nd Shift - 3pm Start Seasonal
Polk City, FL · On-site
$18.90 - $22.40/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Warehouse Recycling Processor *2nd Shift - 3pm Start Seasonal
Polk City, FL · On-site
$18.90 - $22.40/hr
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you'll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you'll oversee key processing tasks ...
Manufacturing Processor 1
Ann Arbor, MI · On-site
Processor I Recycle Ann Arbor is searching for a Recycling Processor to join our growing team. Recycle Ann Arbor is a mission-driven Zero Waste organization whose mission is to develop and operate ...
Manufacturing Processor 1
Ann Arbor, MI · On-site
Processor I Recycle Ann Arbor is searching for a Recycling Processor to join our growing team. Recycle Ann Arbor is a mission-driven Zero Waste organization whose mission is to develop and operate ...
Recycling Coordinator
Lynchburg, VA · On-site
Maintain logs of recycling materials received or shipped to processing companies. * Creates or manages recycling operations budgets. * Implement grant-funded projects, monitoring and reporting ...
Recycling Coordinator
Lynchburg, VA · On-site
Maintain logs of recycling materials received or shipped to processing companies. * Creates or manages recycling operations budgets. * Implement grant-funded projects, monitoring and reporting ...
Recycling Associate
Aliquippa, PA · On-site
$20.65/hr
The Recycler is responsible for sorting, processing, and handling PVC scrap materials, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and operating necessary machinery to facilitate the recycling process.
Recycling Associate
Aliquippa, PA · On-site
$20.65/hr
The Recycler is responsible for sorting, processing, and handling PVC scrap materials, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and operating necessary machinery to facilitate the recycling process.
As an MRF Sorter, you will play a vital role in the recycling process by identifying and separating different materials, ensuring efficiency and quality in waste recovery. This is a hands-on role in ...
As an MRF Sorter, you will play a vital role in the recycling process by identifying and separating different materials, ensuring efficiency and quality in waste recovery. This is a hands-on role in ...
Recycling Processor information
See salary details
$8.89 - $10.45
6% of jobs
$10.45 - $12
6% of jobs
$13.34 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12 - $13.55
14% of jobs
$13.55 - $15.10
19% of jobs
The median wage is $15.49 / hr.
$15.10 - $16.65
15% of jobs
$16.65 - $18.20
13% of jobs
$18.35 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.20 - $19.76
9% of jobs
$19.76 - $21.31
5% of jobs
$21.31 - $22.86
5% of jobs
$22.86 - $24.41
3% of jobs
$24.41 - $25.96
3% of jobs
$8
$16
$25
How much do recycling processor jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling processor in the United States is $16.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What type of recycling pays the most?
Recycling processors typically earn higher wages when handling valuable materials such as metals like copper, aluminum, and brass, which have higher market prices. Specializing in electronics recycling or hazardous waste can also lead to higher pay due to the specialized skills and safety requirements involved. Experience, certifications, and working in regions with higher living costs can further increase earnings in this field.
What are Recycling Processors?
Recycling Processors are workers responsible for sorting, cleaning, and processing recyclable materials such as paper, plastics, metals, and glass. They operate machinery that separates and prepares these materials for reuse or shipment to recycling facilities. Their work helps reduce landfill waste and conserves natural resources by ensuring that items are properly recycled. Recycling Processors must follow safety guidelines, identify non-recyclable items, and sometimes perform light maintenance on equipment. They play a vital role in the recycling supply chain and environmental sustainability.
What are the most common challenges faced by Recycling Processors, and how can they be managed on the job?
Recycling Processors often encounter challenges such as sorting contaminated or improperly separated materials, operating heavy machinery safely, and maintaining production efficiency during busy periods. To manage these issues, it's important to follow safety protocols, stay updated on proper sorting techniques, and communicate effectively with team members. Many facilities also provide regular training and support, making it easier for new hires to adapt and succeed in the role.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recycling Processor, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Recycling Processor, you need attention to detail, physical stamina, and a basic understanding of material sorting and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with conveyor systems, balers, forklifts, and safety equipment is typically required, along with any necessary safety certifications. Reliability, teamwork, and strong communication are important soft skills for maintaining workflow and safety in a fast-paced environment. These skills ensure efficient processing, workplace safety, and the successful diversion of recyclable materials from landfills.
Is recycling a good career path?
Recycling processor jobs can be a stable career choice for those interested in environmental work and waste management. These roles often require physical work, attention to safety protocols, and knowledge of sorting and processing equipment. Career growth may depend on experience, certifications, and the specific employer or industry demand.
What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?
Recycling processors are unlikely to be fully replaced by automation by 2030, but some manual roles in waste sorting and basic recycling tasks may decline as AI and robotic technologies advance. Jobs that rely heavily on manual labor without technological integration are at higher risk of automation, though roles requiring decision-making and oversight will continue to exist. Adaptation to new tools and certifications may be necessary for future employment in the recycling industry.
What jobs make $500,000 a year?
In general, high-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as specialized medical professionals like surgeons and anesthesiologists. Certain highly skilled roles in finance, law, and technology, especially with bonuses and stock options, can also achieve this level of income. For a Recycling Processor, such earnings are uncommon, as the role typically offers lower compensation levels.
What is the difference between Recycling Processor vs Recycling Technician?
| Aspect | Recycling Processor | Recycling Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma; some roles may require certifications in safety or machinery | High school diploma; certifications in equipment operation or safety often preferred |
| Work Environment | Factories, recycling plants, processing facilities | Recycling centers, processing plants, field sites |
| Job Duties | Sorting, processing, and preparing recyclable materials for shipment | Maintaining equipment, troubleshooting, and assisting in processing tasks |
Recycling Processors focus on sorting and preparing recyclable materials, while Recycling Technicians often handle equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. Both roles work in recycling facilities and may require similar certifications, but their daily tasks differ slightly, with Processors more involved in material handling and Technicians in equipment upkeep.
What job categories do people searching Recycling Processor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Recycling Processor jobs are:
Other
Retirement, PTO
Posted 16 days ago
Best Buy rating
6.8
Based on 1,772 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
14th of 30 rated technology retailers
Job description
As a Warehouse Recycling Processor, you’ll help keep our distribution center sustainable by recycling Styrofoam, cardboard, plastic, wood and metal. In this role, you’ll oversee key processing tasks and ensure that recycling areas are clean, orderly and ready for more materials. You’ll also conduct daily equipment inspections and collaborate with leaders to resolve any issues.
What you’ll do
What you’ll do
- Clean and process recyclable materials
- Ensure all materials are processed efficiently with no quality defects or load rejections
- Move and stage processed materials for loading into trailers
- Load processed materials onto assigned trailers for shipment
- Unload and sort transfer trucks returning from stores and delivery pads
- Create accurate records of processed materials
Basic qualifications
- Able to stand, sit and walk for long periods of time
- Able to lift up to 75 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation
What’s in it for you
We’re committed to helping our people thrive at work and at home. Best Buy offers a range of benefits to support your overall well-being and provide support as you need it, especially at key moments in your life.
Our benefits include:
We’re committed to helping our people thrive at work and at home. Best Buy offers a range of benefits to support your overall well-being and provide support as you need it, especially at key moments in your life.
Our benefits include:
- Competitive pay
- Great employee discount
- Financial savings and retirement resources
- Support for your physical and mental well-being
Best Buy provides different types of leaves of absence (LOA) and potential pay sources to employees based on eligibility. The length of your LOA depends on your situation, where you live, your full-time or part-time employment status, and federal and state regulations. Intermittent or reduced-schedule leave is also available for certain medical or family care leaves. Paid time off (vacation or PTO) is offered to full-time and part-time employees based on work location, employment status, salary or hourly status (exempt/non-exempt), and years of continued or bridged service.
Certain roles, where market norms demand it, are eligible for various forms of incentive pay to drive performance and offer recognition for achieving financial and strategic results. For more information about our incentive pay plans, including eligibility, please refer to our Incentive Programs Summary.
For more information about benefits, LOA and paid time off, please refer to our Benefits Guide.
About us
As part of the Best Buy team, you’ll help us fulfill our purpose to enrich lives through technology. We bring that to life every day by humanizing and personalizing tech solutions for every stage of life — in our stores, online and in customers’ homes.
Our culture is built on deeply supporting and valuing our amazing employees who make it all possible. We’re committed to being a great place to work, where you can unlock unique career possibilities. Above all, we aim to provide a place where you can bring your full, authentic self to work now and into the future. Tomorrow works here.™
Best Buy is an equal opportunity employer.
Application deadline: Minimum of 5 days from the posting date. You can find that date above the job title at the top of the page.
Certain roles, where market norms demand it, are eligible for various forms of incentive pay to drive performance and offer recognition for achieving financial and strategic results. For more information about our incentive pay plans, including eligibility, please refer to our Incentive Programs Summary.
For more information about benefits, LOA and paid time off, please refer to our Benefits Guide.
About us
As part of the Best Buy team, you’ll help us fulfill our purpose to enrich lives through technology. We bring that to life every day by humanizing and personalizing tech solutions for every stage of life — in our stores, online and in customers’ homes.
Our culture is built on deeply supporting and valuing our amazing employees who make it all possible. We’re committed to being a great place to work, where you can unlock unique career possibilities. Above all, we aim to provide a place where you can bring your full, authentic self to work now and into the future. Tomorrow works here.™
Best Buy is an equal opportunity employer.
Application deadline: Minimum of 5 days from the posting date. You can find that date above the job title at the top of the page.
About BEST BUY
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
As part of the Best Buy team, you'll help us fulfill our purpose to enrich lives through technology. We bring that to life every day by humanizing and personalizing tech solutions for every stage of life -- in our stores, online and in customers' homes. Our culture is built on deeply supporting and valuing our amazing employees who make it all possible. We're committed to being a great place to work, where you can unlock unique career possibilities. Above all, we aim to provide a place where you can bring your full, authentic self to work now and into the future. Tomorrow works here.™
Industry
Retail
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Richfield, MN, US
Year founded
1966