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Recycling Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

City of Durango

Recycling Center Operator

Durango, CO · On-site

$21.81 - $26.18/hr

We're looking for a Recycling Center Operator to provide excellent customer service at the public drop-off area of the City of Durango's recycling program. In this role, you will operate light, power ...

City of Durango, CO

Trash & Recycling Driver

Durango, CO · On-site

$24 - $28.80/hr

Recycling Collections - 8412 Opening Date: 07/20/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Schedule Details:: Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Occasional schedule adjustments required to accommodate ...

City of Durango

Trash & Recycling Driver

Durango, CO

$24 - $28.80/hr

Description Join the City of Durango's Recycling Collection Division as a Trash & Recycling Driver and help support the community's waste and recycling services. In this role, you'll operate ...

Gana-A'Yoo, Limited - Antarctic Program

$500 - $800/wk

Operate SkyTrak telehandler, Toolcat, ATVs, and zodiacs as required Daily use of pallet jack, banding equipment, power tools, hand tools, shovels, and other tools Collect station waste and recycling ...

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Recycling information

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How much do recycling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for recycling in Colorado is $17.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $19.23 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 Colorado?

The most popular types of Recycling jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Recycling jobs in Colorado?

For Recycling jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recycling jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Recycling jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Recycling jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Recycling job openings:

Recycling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recycling job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,860 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Recycling Plant Forklift Operator

Commerce City, CO • On-site

Federal Recycling and Waste Solutions
See more jobs at Federal Recycling and Waste Solutionsexternal

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 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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