Recycling two glass bottles saves enough energy to boil water for five cups of tea.
The Job
The duties of a Recycling Operative (also known as a Kerbside Collector) are connected to collection of recyclable materials from a variety of places and the delivery to a designated place.
All sorts of materials can be recycled including glass, paper, plastics, metals, tyres, textiles and these are normally collected from households, industrial and commercial premises.
The job involves;
- Emptying recycling bins into allocated place on a vehicle.
- Returning recycling boxes back to the proper location making sure that no litter has been dropped.
- Using any appropriate machinery to assist in collection and delivery.
- Inspecting materials for recycling for any contamination.
- Promoting and educating members of the public about the recycling scheme and how it operates.
- Assisting the driver in safe manoeuvring of the vehicle.
- Cleaning and maintaining small plant and equipment.
- Completing any necessary paperwork for defective equipment.
Have you got what it takes?
You will need excellent communication skills and be able to provide a good level of customer care. You will be dealing with the general public on a day-to-day basis so you should be presentable and have polite and courteous manner.
You should have a good understanding and awareness of health and safety. This is a physically demanding job and you will be working outdoors a lot so you shouldn't mind working in all kinds of weather.
Steps to starting a career
Most Recycling Operatives work for Local Authorities or private waste management companies so you should look for employment opportunities in the following places;
- Local Authority or waste management company websites. Click here for a list of Local Authorities.
- Specialist recruitment websites such as LG Jobs and Lets Recycle.
- Chartered Institution of Waste Management
- Local and national press.
- Local Government Careers website
More links to companies in the waste management industry.
The collection of waste, particularly recyclables is now being undertaken by a number of voluntary/ charitable organisations on behalf of Local Authorities and private contractors.
Some voluntary work is available and is a good way of obtaining experience in order to find employment within the waste industry.
What are the entry requirements for this job?
What training will I receive?
How much will I get paid?
How can I progress in this career?
