Plant Associate

Plant Associates at WM support safe, efficient operation of our waste and recycling facilities. In this hands-on role, you will sort and process materials, operate plant equipment, and help maintain a clean, compliant worksite. You'll follow strict safety and environmental procedures while working as part of a supportive team that keeps essential services running for local communities. WM offers training, stable full-time work, and opportunities to grow your career in sustainable waste management within a culture focused on safety, integrity, and inclusion.

Responsibilities

• Safely sort, load, and process waste and recyclable materials according to WM standards
• Operate and monitor plant equipment such as conveyors, compactors, and balers
• Inspect incoming materials, identify contaminants, and maintain quality standards
• Follow all safety, environmental, and housekeeping procedures and use required PPEComplete basic equipment checks and promptly report hazards or maintenance needs
• Accurately record material weights, types, and loads using plant systems
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production goals

Required Skills

• Material sorting and handling
• Operation of compactors and balers
• Forklift or skid-steer operation
• Basic equipment inspection
• Understanding of recycling streams
• OSHA and safety procedures
• Lockout/Tagout awareness
• Recordkeeping and labeling
• Basic computer or scanner use
• PPE use and hazard recognition