Sorter

Elk Grove, CA, USA|

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $14.50 - $18.25

Benefits

Paid Time Off

Paid holidays

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

retirement plans

Employee stock ownership plan

Annual wellness incentives

Employee assistance program

educational assistance

commuting benefits

Employee Referral Program

Job Description

Recology is a leading resource recovery company that is firmly committed to sustainable environmental practices and protecting our communities. As the largest employee-owned company in the industry, Recology offers a unique culture that values diversity, collaboration, accountability, and community engagement. The company is driven by its mission to maximize resource use through the principles of reducing, reusing, recycling, and recologizing, thereby striving for a waste-free world. Recology places a high emphasis on mentoring and developing its employees, providing an ecologically innovative workplace that encourages learning by doing.

This entry-level Recycling Sorter role is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are passionate about environmental sustainability and eager to start a career in waste management with no prior required experience. Under close supervision, Recycling Sorters are responsible for sorting a wide variety of reusable waste material for recycling in line with established standards and procedures. The position requires carefully separating contaminated or non-recyclable materials from recyclable ones such as paper and glass, ensuring compliance with laws, regulations, and company policies. The shift is scheduled Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, providing a stable work schedule.

The role involves working with mixed recyclable materials on conveyor belts, inspecting the contents of bags, and maintaining a safe and organized work environment. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are critical, as employees must report and take appropriate action regarding hazardous materials found in the waste stream. Recology prides itself on supporting its team members with extensive benefits, including paid time off, health and wellness plans, retirement plans with matching contributions, and educational assistance. Employees also benefit from wellness programs, commuting support, and employee referral incentives.

Joining Recology means becoming part of a creative and caring culture focused on community impact and environmental stewardship. The company encourages flexible thinking and resilience in handling stressful situations and maintaining productivity. Effective communication skills and the ability to operate two-way radios or similar devices are necessary due to the collaborative nature of the work environment. Recology upholds an inclusive workplace and provides reasonable accommodations to ensure all employees can perform essential job functions. As a Recycling Sorter, you will be integral to Recology's efforts to foster a sustainable future while developing valuable skills that can serve as a foundation for growth within the company or the broader environmental services industry. This role is ideal for individuals who want to make a tangible difference by helping divert waste from landfills and contributing to a circular economy through conscientious sorting and resource recovery.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or GED preferred
Ability to lift 25 pounds
Basic computer skills
Ability to promote the WASTE ZERO philosophy
Ability to work under pressure and handle stressful situations
Ability to maintain high levels of productivity over extended periods
Ability to understand safety rules and procedures
Effective communication skills
Ability to operate a two-way radio or similar device

Job Qualifications

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying
Knowledge of principles and practices of job site safety, potential job hazards, and state and local regulations
Familiarity with common procedures and general company operations by following established methods and standing instructions
Basic computer skills
High school diploma or GED preferred
Ability to promote the WASTE ZERO philosophy by making the best and highest use of all resources
Ability to work under pressure, handle stressful situations and maintain flexibility
Ability to maintain high levels of activity or productivity operating with effectiveness and determination over extended periods of time
Ability to understand safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
Ability to consistently build knowledge and expertise about the current job
Ability to communicate effectively with peers, supervisors and customers
Ability to communicate via two-way radio or similar device
Ability to lift 25 pounds

Job Duties

Sorts mixed recyclable materials by type and from waste materials in compliance with laws, regulations and policies
Identifies and distinguishes recyclables such as paper and glass from non-recyclables like garbage
Sorts through materials on a conveyor to view and recognize types and opens bags to inspect contents
Empties and/or changes sorted materials containers as needed
Maintains a safe work area
Reports and takes appropriate action regarding hazardous materials in the waste stream in accordance with company policies and training
Abides by company policies and procedures and state and local regulations