Waste Material Sorter - Open Continuous

COR Disposal & Recycling

Portland (OR)

On-site

USD 35,000 - 45,000

Full time

14 days+

Get more replies from employers

Send a job-specific resume in minutes.

Benefits offered by this job

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Safety equipment provided

Vision insurance

Job summary

A leading waste and recycling company in Portland seeks a Waste Material Sorter for a full-time entry-level role. Responsibilities include sorting materials, operating equipment, and ensuring safety compliance. Candidates with a passion for sustainability and some experience in recycling or manufacturing are preferred. The company offers a supportive environment with a focus on community and environmental impact.

Qualifications

Experience working in recycling, manufacturing, or waste management preferred.
Familiarity with different types of recyclable materials and contamination risks preferred.
Forklift certification (or ability to obtain one).

Responsibilities

Sort recyclable materials from non-recyclables.
Operate machinery like conveyor belts and compactors.
Follow all safety protocols and report hazards.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Physical Stamina

Safety Awareness

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

Forklift

Job description

1 month ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.

About Cor

Founded in 1996, COR is Portland’s largest and most innovative waste and recycling company, recognized for its sustainability efforts and commitment to the local community. Our impact continues to grow as we serve more clients, engage with neighbors, and expand our diverse workforce. Recently, we’ve been in the spotlight for securing new funding, adopting cutting-edge technology, and forming exciting partnerships to divert more waste from landfills and help local businesses and governments reduce their carbon footprints. In 2023, we led the way by transitioning our fleet to R99 renewable diesel—the cleanest option available—and proudly introduced Oregon’s first fully electric garbage truck.

OUR VISION

While we’ve seen incredible growth, we always prioritize people and planet over profits. COR is committed to making our world and our community a better place for all people, and for future generations. We invest in diversity, workforce development, and forward-thinking concepts like the COR Campus innovation hub that’s creating the future of Climate Tech and Oregon’s circular economy.

OUR VALUES

Our COR Values guide us every day in the way we work and interact with each other:

Committed: we are committed to excellence, we possess strong work ethic, and we always do the right thing.
Team Player: we show respect and openness to collaborate with others; we are always willing to lend a helping hand.
Problem Solver: we think critically to identify and solve problems; we propose and implement thoughtful solutions.
Get It Done: we focus on completing our work efficiently and on time, overcoming obstacles along the way.

Benefits

Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Retirement plan
Safety equipment provided
Vision insurance

Position Overview

The Waste Material Sorter is responsible for sorting recyclable materials from non-recyclables and ensuring that items are documented correctly according to waste audit guidelines. This role is essential in our waste audits, contributing to environmental sustainability by guiding Oregon’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) material recovery efforts in partnership with Circular Action Alliance (CAA).

Key Responsibilities

Sorting Materials
Manually sort materials such as plastics, metals, cardboard, and paper from sample waste streams on a conveyor line.
Separate non-recyclable items or contaminants from the samples provided.
Identify and remove hazardous materials to maintain safety.
Assist with processing materials for shipping or further processing.
Quality Control

Ensure sorted materials meet waste audit standards and specifications for documentation.
Monitor for incorrect items or contaminants.

Equipment Operation and Maintenance

Operate basic machinery like conveyor belts, compactors, forklifts, or balers as needed.
Perform basic cleaning and maintenance of work areas and equipment.
Report any equipment malfunctions or hazards immediately.

Safety and Compliance

Follow all safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toe boots.
Adhere to facility policies and environmental regulations.
Participate in safety training and report incidents or unsafe conditions.
Follow OSHA and state environmental regulations

Team Collaboration

Work with other sorters, machine operators, and supervisors to ensure efficient workflow.
Communicate effectively to address issues such as conveyor jams or material backlogs.

KEY COMPETENCIES

Attention to Detail: Ability to quickly and accurately identify materials on a moving conveyor and adhere to strict checks and balances to ensure accurate data.
Physical Stamina: Capability to stand for extended periods, lift heavy objects, and perform repetitive tasks.
Safety Awareness: Understanding of safe practices in an industrial setting.

NICE TO HAVES

Passion for sustainability initiatives.
Understanding of ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) regulations.
Ability to work under pressure.

Required & Desired Experience

Experience working in recycling, manufacturing, or waste management preferred.
Familiarity with different types of recyclable materials and contamination risks preferred.
Forklift certification (or ability to obtain one).

Physical, Driving, Travel Requirements

Physical Demands: Standing, bending, and lifting materials for extended periods in a fast-paced environment.
Conditions: Exposure to moving objects, loud noises, dust, odors, and varying temperatures, often in an industrial setting.
Heavy objects: Lift up to 50 lbs.
Varying temperatures: Non-climate-controlled environment.

Seniority level