Are you passionate about recycling and making a positive impact on the environment? If so, a career as a Municipal Recycling Waste Handler might be perfect for you. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with conveyor belts, drive forklifts, and sort various recyclable materials such as glass, plastic, metal, and paper. Let's delve into the details of this profession!

Job Description:

Municipal recycling waste handlers work in depots or warehouses, where they are responsible for sorting bulk loads of recyclable waste materials. Their duties may include:

  1. Confirming that materials meet specified types, grades, and are free of contaminants.
  2. Loading materials onto conveyor belts or into bulk loads for inspection.
  3. Regulating the flow of paper into shredding or baling machines.
  4. Operating forklifts to move bales of shredded or compressed materials.
  5. Loading waste materials onto trucks or trailers.
  6. Operating hydraulic lift jacks to move bales or loads of bulk paper.
  7. Assisting the public with unloading recyclable material.

Some recycling waste handlers may also work in commercial bottle-return depots, where they calculate payments and pay customers for returned materials.

Working Conditions:

Municipal recycling waste handlers often work in shifts and are required to be on their feet for extended periods. They may need to lift items weighing up to 20 kilograms. Safety measures, such as wearing hard hats, gloves, safety shoes, and safety glasses, are essential. Loose clothing is not permitted when working near conveyor belts.

Traits and Skills:

To excel as a municipal recycling waste handler, you will need:

  1. The ability to work quickly and steadily throughout your shift.
  2. The ability to remain alert while performing routine, repetitive tasks.
  3. The ability to work independently.
  4. The ability to manage work on fast-moving conveyor belts without motion sickness.
  5. Strong communication skills when dealing with the public.

Additionally, enjoying working methodically and handling materials is beneficial for this role.

Education and Certification:

Education requirements for this profession vary, and there are no strict regulations regarding certifications. However, acquiring relevant training and certifications can enhance your employability.

Average Salary and Demand:

The average salary for a municipal recycling waste handler is $21.55 per hour. The demand for these positions is approximately 1,600 per province per year.

Conclusion: A career as a municipal recycling waste handler not only offers the opportunity to work with recycling materials and support sustainability but also provides a stable and rewarding job. If you are skilled at sorting, can work efficiently on your own, and enjoy working in an environment that values recycling, this profession could be a perfect fit for you. Start your journey towards making a positive impact on the environment today!

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