Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Junk Processing Technician

🎯 Role Definition

Are you passionate about making a tangible environmental impact? We're looking for a dedicated and hardworking Junk Processing Technician to form the backbone of our operations. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for the hands-on sorting, handling, and processing of various materials, from household junk to industrial scrap. You will operate essential equipment, ensure strict adherence to safety and environmental regulations, and play a direct part in the circular economy. This position requires a keen eye for detail, a commitment to safety, and the physical ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced industrial environment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Laborer
Warehouse Associate
Construction Worker
Landscaping Crew Member

Advancement To:

Lead Technician / Shift Leader
Heavy Equipment Operator (Specialized)
Operations Supervisor
Safety Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

Maintenance Technician
Logistics Coordinator
Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Assistant

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Operate heavy machinery including forklifts, skid steers, balers, and compactors to move, consolidate, and process materials.
Manually sort a wide variety of incoming materials, such as scrap metal, plastics, paper, cardboard, electronics, and construction debris, according to grade and type.
Perform pre-shift and post-shift safety inspections on all assigned equipment and report any defects or maintenance needs immediately.
Load and unload materials from trucks, containers, and trailers, ensuring proper weight distribution and securing of loads.
Adhere strictly to all company, local, state, and federal safety protocols, including OSHA and environmental regulations, to maintain a hazard-free work environment.
Identify, segregate, and properly handle hazardous or prohibited materials according to established procedures and regulatory requirements.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area through regular housekeeping duties, including sweeping, cleaning up spills, and organizing tools.
Accurately weigh, document, and record incoming and outgoing shipments of materials using scale systems and computer software.
Perform routine and preventative maintenance on processing equipment, such as clearing jams, lubricating parts, and assisting the maintenance team with repairs.
Consistently lift, carry, push, and pull materials weighing up to 50-75 pounds throughout the shift.
Grade and classify different types of scrap materials to maximize their value and ensure they meet customer specifications.
Operate shredders, grinders, and other size-reduction equipment to prepare materials for further processing or shipment.
Monitor automated sorting lines and processing systems, troubleshooting minor blockages and alerting supervisors to significant malfunctions.
Effectively communicate with team members, supervisors, and truck drivers to ensure a smooth and efficient operational flow.
Participate actively in daily toolbox talks, safety meetings, and mandatory training sessions to stay current on best practices.
ans-on dismantling of complex items, such as electronics or appliances, to recover valuable components.
Assist with periodic inventory counts of both raw and processed materials to ensure accurate record-keeping.
Provide professional and courteous service to customers and drivers arriving at the facility.
Work effectively outdoors and be exposed to variable weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain.
Inspect finished bales, bundles, or containers of processed material to ensure they meet quality and shipping standards.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc requests for material sorting and special cleanup projects as directed by supervisors.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of operational processes, safety procedures, and overall efficiency.
Collaborate with the logistics and maintenance teams to coordinate material flow and minimize equipment downtime.
Participate in team meetings and contribute to daily operational planning and problem-solving.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Forklift Operation Certification
Skid Steer (Bobcat) Operation
Experience with industrial balers, compactors, or shredders
Strong knowledge of material identification (e.g., ferrous vs. non-ferrous metals, plastic resin codes)
Basic mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and minor equipment repair
Ability to operate hand and power tools safely and effectively
Physical strength and stamina to handle demanding manual labor
Knowledge of OSHA safety standards for general industry
Experience with weigh scale systems and basic data entry
Familiarity with reading Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
HAZWOPER certification is a significant plus

Soft Skills

Exceptional Safety Consciousness and Situational Awareness
Strong Work Ethic and Reliability
Meticulous Attention to Detail
Ability to Work Effectively in a Team Environment
Adaptability to Changing Priorities and Weather Conditions
Proactive Problem-Solving Skills
Clear and Effective Communication

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Vocational or Technical Certificate in Heavy Equipment Operation, Industrial Maintenance, or a related trade.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Environmental Science
Waste Management
Logistics

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1-3 years of experience in general labor, construction, manufacturing, or a related industrial field.

Preferred: 3+ years of direct experience in the scrap recycling, waste management, or demolition industry, with demonstrated proficiency in operating relevant heavy equipment.