Recycling Plant Forklift Operator

Federal Recycling & Waste Solutions; Commerce City (CO); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Federal Recycling is seeking a dependable Forklift Operator at our Denver, CO facility to safely move and organize recyclable materials throughout daily operations.

Operate forklifts and front-end loaders safely and efficiently; load/unload, ship/receive, and help maintain production flow. Valid forklift certification is a plus; bilingual English/Spanish is a plus; high school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience operating forklifts and/or front-end loaders.
• Bilingual English/Spanish a plus.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Valid forklift certification is a plus (or ability to obtain certification).

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts and front-end loaders safely and efficiently.
• Load, unload, move, and stage recyclable materials.
• Assist with shipping and receiving activities as needed.
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and safe.

Skills

Forklift operation

Front-end Loader

Safety-focused

Team communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Forklift certification

Job description

Federal Recycling is a leading independent recycling company with over 100 years of experience helping customers build profitable, sustainable waste management operations. As part of "Where Green is Going," we deliver innovative, forward-thinking recycling solutions that enable our partners to lead their industries in environmental responsibility.

Job Summary

We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused Forklift Operator to support daily operations at our Denver recycling facility. This hands-on role is responsible for safely operating forklifts and front-end loaders to move, load, unload, and organize recyclable materials throughout the facility.

The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced industrial environment and takes pride in maintaining safe and efficient operations. This position works closely with plant staff, drivers, and leadership to support daily production and material flow.

This position is based in Denver, CO and reports directly to the General Manager.

Responsibilities

Production & Operations

• Operate forklifts and front-end loaders safely and efficiently.
• Load, unload, move, and stage recyclable materials throughout the facility.
• Support daily plant operations to maintain production flow.
• Inspect materials and ensure proper handling and storage procedures are followed.
• Assist with shipping and receiving activities as needed.
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of safety hazards.

Safety

• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
• Conduct pre-shift equipment inspections and report issues promptly.
• Use proper PPE and maintain safe operating practices at all times.
• Support a strong safety culture throughout the facility.

Logistics & Coordination

• Coordinate with drivers and plant personnel to move materials efficiently.
• Ensure materials are loaded and unloaded accurately and safely.
• Assist with inventory movement and yard organization as needed.

Competencies

• Experience operating forklifts and/or front-end loaders safely and efficiently.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced industrial environment.
• Strong attention to safety and detail.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication and organizational skills.
• Recycling or warehouse experience is a plus.

Education / Experience

• Previous forklift or heavy equipment operating experience preferred.
• Recycling, warehouse, manufacturing, or industrial experience preferred.
• Valid forklift certification is a plus (or ability to obtain certification).
• Bilingual (English & Spanish) a plus.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Physical Demands

This role frequently requires standing, walking, bending, lifting, and operating industrial equipment. The position may require lifting up to 50 pounds and working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Employees may be exposed to dust, noise, heat, cold, and other industrial environmental conditions typical of a recycling facility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Federal Recycling is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Salary: $19 - $21 per hour