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Recycling Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As a Recycling Coordinator, you will be responsible for managing waste collection and recycling efforts, including: collect and dispose of waste materials. operate waste management vehicles and ...

Recycling Associate

Pasadena, CA ยท On-site

$23 - $27.25/hr

Recycling employees work together as a team to collect approximately (70) 3 cubic yard bins on set schedules. Responsible for sorting and processing recyclables collected from designated routes.

Recycling Associate

Pasadena, CA ยท On-site

$23 - $27.25/hr

Recycling employees work together as a team to collect approximately (70) 3 cubic yard bins on set schedules. Responsible for sorting and processing recyclables collected from designated routes.

Job Type Full-time Description UNION JANITOR RECYCLING SPECIALIST - VARYING SITES Pay Rate: $27.42 per hour WHO WE ARE HomeRise believes that home has the power to stabilize a person's life. Built on ...

UNION | JANITOR | RECYCLING SPECIALIST - VARYING SITES Pay Rate: $27.42 per hour WHO WE ARE HomeRise believes that home has the power to stabilize a person's life. Built on a simple - but powerful ...

Recycling Sorter

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$18.05/hr

Augment is a leader in the sanitation and recycling industry, providing top-quality workforce solutions to Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), landfills, and other waste management sites. We are ...

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Recycling information

See California salary details

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$16

$20

How much do recycling jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling in California is $16.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recycling job?

A recycling job involves collecting, sorting, and processing materials like paper, plastic, metal, and glass to be reused or repurposed. Workers may operate machinery, transport recyclables, or educate the public on proper waste disposal. These jobs help reduce landfill waste and promote environmental sustainability. Recycling positions can be found in waste management companies, municipal programs, and private organizations focused on sustainability efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the recycling position?

To thrive in a Recycling role, you typically need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of waste management or environmental practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sorting equipment, balers, forklifts, and safety protocols is also valuable, and some positions may require OSHA certification or machinery operation training. Strong teamwork, reliability, and communication skills help you stand out, as these roles often require close coordination with others. These abilities ensure that recyclable materials are processed safely and efficiently, maintaining high-quality standards and contributing to environmental sustainability.

What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of someone working in recycling?

In a recycling role, your daily responsibilities may include sorting and processing recyclable materials, operating machinery such as conveyors and balers, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment. You may also be responsible for identifying and removing contaminants from recyclable streams, tracking inventory, and assisting with pickups or deliveries of recyclable goods. Teamwork is usually essential, as most recycling facilities rely on coordinated group efforts to meet processing goals. This role can be physically demanding and often involves working in warehouse or outdoor environments, but it offers the rewarding opportunity to make a positive environmental impact.

What are the different types of recycling jobs?

Recycling jobs include positions such as recycling technicians, material sorters, collection drivers, plant operators, and environmental specialists. These roles involve tasks like sorting recyclable materials, operating machinery, managing collection routes, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Skills in equipment operation, safety procedures, and knowledge of recyclable materials are often required.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recycling jobs in California?

The most popular types of Recycling jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Recycling jobs?

Cities in California with the most Recycling job openings:

Infographic showing various Recycling job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,595 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Recycling Coordinator

TradeJobsWorkforce

Bakersfield, CA โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

As a Recycling Coordinator, you will be responsible for managing waste collection and recycling efforts, including: collect and dispose of waste materials. operate waste management vehicles and equipment. sort recyclable materials. maintain clean and safe work environment. follow safety and environmental regulations. respond to customer inquiries about waste services. coordinate with team to ensure timely pickups. help with inventory and supply of waste containers. assist with billing and documentation. learn company waste services and pricing. work closely with finance for billing. ability to work outdoors and in different weather conditions. report equipment issues and maintenance needs. provide customer service to clients. prepare reports on collection activities. submit timely activity reports. dynamic project management and collaboration skills. be constantly mindful of schedules and committed to on-time pickups. Duties and responsibilities can change depending on business needs.