Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Junk Sorter
💰 $28,000 - $42,000
Waste ManagementRecyclingEnvironmental ServicesLabor
🎯 Role Definition
A Junk Sorter is responsible for identifying, separating, and organizing recyclable and non-recyclable materials from incoming waste streams. This role ensures proper processing, minimizes environmental impact, and maintains compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards in recycling centers, landfills, or industrial waste facilities.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Laborer or General Warehouse Worker
- Recycling Assistant
- Environmental Services Helper
Advancement To:
- Senior Junk Sorter or Line Supervisor
- Recycling Operations Coordinator
- Waste Management Facility Supervisor
Lateral Moves:
- Material Handler
- Environmental Technician
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Sort incoming waste materials, including metals, plastics, paper, glass, electronics, and hazardous items, according to facility guidelines.
- Operate sorting machinery, conveyor belts, and compactors safely and efficiently.
- Inspect items for contamination, hazardous materials, or items that require special handling.
- Separate recyclable materials from non-recyclable waste for proper disposal or processing.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the sorting area to ensure smooth workflow.
- Load and unload waste from trucks, bins, or containers, adhering to safety protocols.
- Record quantities of sorted materials for reporting and inventory purposes.
- Assist in preparing materials for baling, shredding, or other processing methods.
- Follow all safety procedures, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and comply with OSHA or local safety regulations.
- Identify reusable items or materials for resale, refurbishment, or donation.
- Monitor equipment performance and report malfunctions or maintenance needs.
- Participate in environmental compliance and sustainability initiatives.
- Assist in training new team members on sorting techniques, safety standards, and quality expectations.
- Separate hazardous or electronic waste for proper handling and disposal.
- Ensure accurate labeling and documentation of sorted materials for recycling vendors.
- Collaborate with team members to maintain workflow efficiency during peak hours.
- Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of sorting equipment and work areas.
- Assist in implementing process improvements to increase sorting efficiency and reduce contamination.
- Handle unexpected waste streams safely, adapting to new material types or changes in sorting procedures.
- Support management with operational audits, inventory tracking, and reporting.
Secondary Functions
- Participate in waste reduction and recycling awareness campaigns.
- Assist with the preparation of reports on sorting efficiency, contamination rates, and safety incidents.
- Contribute to facility improvement projects and sustainability programs.
- Support community outreach or educational programs related to recycling and waste management.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Knowledge of recyclable materials and sorting techniques.
- Familiarity with operating industrial sorting and waste processing equipment.
- Ability to identify hazardous or electronic waste and follow disposal protocols.
- Basic inventory tracking and reporting skills.
- Understanding of safety regulations and environmental compliance standards.
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures and quality guidelines.
- Physical ability to lift, bend, and stand for extended periods.
- Competency in cleaning and maintaining machinery or work areas.
- Basic communication and documentation skills for reporting purposes.
- Knowledge of waste handling and recycling processes.
Soft Skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in sorting tasks.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Good time management and ability to meet production targets.
- Reliability and punctuality.
- Adaptability to different waste streams and changing operational needs.
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
Preferred Education:
- Vocational training in environmental services, recycling, or industrial operations.
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Environmental Science or Waste Management
- Industrial Operations
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range:
- 0–2 years in recycling, waste management, or industrial sorting roles.
Preferred:
- Prior experience in a recycling facility, landfill, or industrial sorting environment.