Recycling operative

In your day-to-day tasks you may:

• collect recyclable materials
•  load and unload recycling collection vehicles
•  use lifting machinery to help move and sort waste
•  pick materials from a moving conveyor
•  sort waste and remove non-recyclable items
•  inspect materials for any contamination
•  keep your work area clean and maintain equipment

• the ability to work well with others
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of public safety and security 
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

With qualifications and experience you could move into a supervisory role at a waste collection site.