Recycling and Reclamation Workers
Recycling and Reclamation Workers handle the valuable materials hidden in our trash. They sort metals, glass, plastics, wood, and paper into the right categories, clean them when needed, and use equipment such as conveyor belts, grinders, fiber-sorters, and balers to crush and compact recyclables into neat, stackable bales. They also carefully remove dangerous substances from old appliances using tools like refrigerant recovery machines, keep detailed logs of what materials and chemicals were recovered, and operate forklifts, pallet jacks, or collection trucks to move materials safely through the recycling process.
Did you know?
This occupation involves heavy lifting, exposure to potentially hazardous materials, and requires strict adherence to OSHA safety protocols in American workplaces.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$39,900 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Operation and Control
Things to consider
Growing Job Market Opportunities
Employment prospects are expanding due to increased environmental regulations and corporate sustainability initiatives across the United States.
Training and Certification Needs
Many positions require on-the-job training or specialized certifications in equipment operation and hazardous material handling that vary by state.
Key responsibilities
Operate balers to compress recyclable materials into bundles or bales.
Operate automated refuse or manual recycling collection vehicles.
Clean recycling yard by sweeping, raking, picking up broken glass and loose paper debris, or moving barrels and bins.
Record logs of recycled materials or waste chemicals removed from products.
Sort metals to separate high-grade metals, such as copper, brass, and aluminum, for recycling.