RECYCLING CENTER SPECIALIST – DISPOSAL SITES

Job Specifications

Class Code:	MW1
Analyst:	CB

Date Originated:	6/2025
Date Revised:

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, perform a variety of semi-skilled and unskilled manual labor tasks at disposal site recycling areas, including visually inspecting, sorting and separating recyclable materials, while supporting operational needs and performing other job-related duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is an entry level position. Recycling Center Specialists – Disposal Sites support the County’s recycling program by assisting and educating the public with proper unloading, sorting, and processing recyclable materials at the County’s recycling facilities while ensuring compliance with recycling guidelines. This class is distinguished from the next higher class of Disposal Site Maintenance Worker in that the latter class is responsible for processing larger-scale recyclable materials, broader facility maintenance, including building and grounds upkeep, the operation of heavy equipment, and performing cashier duties as needed.

TYPICAL TASKS

• Monitors the safe operation of the public drop-off recycling centers;
• Directs public traffic to designated drop-off locations for recyclable items and redirects individuals with unacceptable materials to the scale house, ensuring a safe and efficient flow of traffic;
• Inspects incoming loads to ensure compliance with the County's acceptable materials list;
• Sorts and separates recyclable materials, such as metals, clear and colored glass bottles and jars, plastic containers, paper, cardboard, aluminum, electronic devices, and other materials or items deemed recyclable;
• Moves collection bins accordingly with hydraulic forklift;
• Operates recycling equipment, including, baler, pallet jack, forklift and other related machinery;
• Assists in loading and unloading trucks;
• Processes recyclable materials to obtain best market value;
• Maintains neat, orderly, safe, quiet and efficient sites;
• Tracks, records, and reports inventory levels of recyclable materials, equipment, and supplies;
• Conducts preoperational inspections of equipment, documenting daily inspection findings and ensuring readiness for operation;
• Regularly cleans and sanitizes work areas and equipment to maintain a safe and hygienic environment;
• Interfaces with customers in a customer service-oriented fashion; 
• Collects and process dry cell and automotive batteries;
• May be assigned to assist in laborious maintenance tasks;
• May provide lead direction to new recycle workers;
• Assists in training new Recycling Center Specialists in established work procedures and safety practices;
• Implements the site safety and inspection plan and storm water pollution prevention plan; and
• Attends scheduled safety and policy meetings.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Knowledge:

Some knowledge of:

• Effective customer service principles, including the ability to interact courteously and professionally with members of the public and internal staff.
• Safe driving practices and applicable traffic laws to ensure the safe operation of vehicles and equipment.

Ability to:

• Acquire and retain knowledge of techniques, equipment, and materials used in safely handling and processing a variety of recyclable materials and waste materials.
• Acquire and retain knowledge of techniques and procedures used to safely and effectively operate recycling processing equipment, vehicles and tools, balers, and forklifts.
• Acquire and retain knowledge of environmental regulations governing recycling and solid waste operations and the handling of hazardous waste.
• Stand and walk continuously for up to eight hours per day.
• Perform manual labor in various weather conditions, demonstrating strength, dexterity and agility.
• Maintain a safe work environment, ensuring the safety of oneself and others.   
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with external and internal customers.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions accurately.
• Obtain an OSHA-certified forklift license within three months of hire.
• Maintain productivity and focus on assigned tasks, whether working independently, collaboratively with a team, or under varying levels of supervision.  
• Quickly learn and apply basic recycling practices including collections, sorting, high grading and baling of materials.
• Lift up to 50 pounds.
• Act in a courteous and diplomatic manner when dealing with the public.

Training and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and abilities, is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

No experience required.

Work experience in recycling or resource recovery and/or performing manual labor is desirable.

Special Requirements/Conditions:
License or Certificate: Possession of a valid class C driver’s license; Possess and maintain a valid Cal OSHA forklift certification within three months of hire.

Other Special Requirements: Alcohol and drug tests will be administered for all candidates prior to final selection for safety-sensitive positions requiring a forklift certificate.

Incumbents are required to work weekends and holidays. Incumbents must be physically and mentally capable of performing the essential functions as summarized in the typical tasks section of this job description.

Special Working Conditions:

Exposure to variable temperatures and weather conditions; high levels of noise; strong, unpleasant odors; infections which might cause chronic disease or death; dust; and, allergies, such as stinging insects and poison oak; the possibility of experiencing burns, bodily injury and contact with toxic substances or chemical irritants.

PREVIOUS CLASS TITLES:
Bargaining Unit: 43
EEOC Job Category: 08
Occupational Grouping: 41
Workers' Compensation Code:1160