Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Recycle Operator

🎯 Role Definition

As a Recycle Operator, you are the backbone of our recycling operations, playing a vital, hands-on role in the circular economy. You will be responsible for the safe and efficient sorting, processing, and handling of recyclable materials within our state-of-the-art Materials Recovery Facility (MRF). This position requires a keen eye for detail, a strong commitment to safety, and the physical ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced industrial environment. You'll operate essential equipment, ensure the quality of our processed materials, and contribute directly to our company's sustainability goals by diverting waste from landfills. This is an opportunity to be part of a collaborative team making a tangible environmental impact every day.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer
Warehouse Associate
Construction Worker
Landscaping Crew Member

Advancement To:

Lead Recycle Operator / Line Lead
Heavy Equipment Operator (Loader, Excavator)
Shift Supervisor
Maintenance Technician Apprentice

Lateral Moves:

Forklift Operator
Production Worker (Manufacturing)
Logistics Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Manually sort a variety of recyclable materials, such as plastics, paper, cardboard, glass, and metals, from a moving conveyor belt to meet stringent quality standards.
Identify and diligently remove contaminants and non-recyclable waste from the material stream to prevent contamination of final products.
Operate and monitor sorting line equipment, including conveyor systems, screens, and optical sorters, ensuring a consistent and efficient flow of materials.
Safely operate industrial machinery such as balers and compactors to densify sorted materials into bales for efficient storage and transportation.
Conduct pre-shift and post-shift inspections on all assigned equipment, reporting any mechanical issues or safety concerns to the shift supervisor immediately.
Operate mobile heavy equipment, including forklifts and skid steers, to move, stack, and load bales and other materials throughout the facility.
Adhere strictly to all company safety policies, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, and OSHA regulations to maintain a hazard-free work environment.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area by regularly sweeping, shoveling, and clearing debris from around machinery, conveyor belts, and walkways.
Assist with the loading and unloading of inbound and outbound trucks and trailers, ensuring proper documentation and weight verification.
Perform basic preventative maintenance tasks on facility equipment, such as greasing fittings, clearing jams, and assisting the maintenance team with minor repairs.
Communicate effectively and professionally with team members, line leads, and supervisors regarding production flow, quality issues, or safety hazards.
Strive to meet or exceed established daily production goals, quality targets, and operational efficiency metrics set by the facility management.
Accurately complete daily production logs, equipment inspection checklists, and any other required operational paperwork in a timely manner.
Monitor the flow of materials onto the sorting line, making adjustments as necessary to prevent blockages and ensure a steady processing pace.
Maintain constant situational awareness of your surroundings to avoid hazards related to moving equipment, vehicle traffic, and falling materials.
Wear all company-issued Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including a hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, gloves, and high-visibility clothing, at all times.
Grade inbound and outbound loads of materials according to established quality specifications to ensure accurate inventory and payment processing.
Direct truck and pedestrian traffic within the yard and tipping floor to ensure the safe and efficient movement of vehicles and personnel.
Work effectively in a variety of environmental conditions, which may include exposure to heat, cold, dust, odors, and noise typical of a recycling facility.
Troubleshoot and resolve minor operational issues with sorting equipment to minimize downtime and maintain productivity.

Secondary Functions

Perform general housekeeping duties, including sweeping, shoveling, and cleaning work areas to maintain a safe and orderly environment.
Assist maintenance personnel with basic preventative maintenance tasks and equipment repairs as needed.
Participate actively in daily toolbox talks, safety meetings, and operational training sessions to foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
Provide operational support to other departments or work areas within the facility as directed by a supervisor to meet overall plant objectives.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Material Identification: Ability to quickly and accurately identify various types of plastics (PET, HDPE), paper grades, cardboard, glass, and metals.
Machinery Operation: Experience operating industrial equipment such as balers, compactors, and conveyor systems.
Heavy Equipment Operation: Certified or proficient in operating a forklift and/or skid steer for material handling.
Basic Mechanical Aptitude: Ability to perform minor equipment adjustments, clear jams, and assist with basic maintenance tasks.
Safety Protocol Adherence: Strong knowledge of and commitment to workplace safety standards, particularly Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures.
Hand and Power Tool Proficiency: Competent in using basic tools for minor repairs and facility upkeep.
Quality Control: A keen eye for detail to spot contaminants and ensure the quality of sorted materials meets specifications.
Record Keeping: Ability to accurately fill out daily logs, inspection forms, and production reports.

Soft Skills

Physical Stamina & Strength: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and perform physically demanding tasks in a dynamic environment.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous in sorting materials and inspecting equipment to ensure quality and safety.
Teamwork & Communication: Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team and communicate clearly with supervisors and peers.
Adaptability: Flexibility to work in varying weather conditions and handle changes in production flow or job duties.
Strong Work Ethic: Punctual, reliable, and motivated to meet production goals in a fast-paced setting.
Safety Consciousness: A proactive mindset focused on identifying and mitigating potential hazards for oneself and the team.
Hand-Eye Coordination: Excellent coordination is essential for quickly and accurately sorting materials from a moving conveyor.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Vocational or technical training in industrial maintenance or heavy equipment operation.

Relevant Fields of Study:

General Studies
Industrial Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0 - 3 years. This is often an entry-level position with on-the-job training provided.

Preferred:

1+ years of experience in a related environment such as a recycling facility, manufacturing plant, general labor, or warehouse setting.
Previous experience operating a forklift, skid steer, baler, or other industrial machinery is highly desirable.