Career outlook for recycling operative
Figures and forecasts for roles at the same level, which require similar skills and qualifications.
Average UK salary
£20,800
Currently employed in Scotland
3,200
Average UK salary
£20,800
Currently employed in Scotland
3,200
"LMI for All" supplies our salary and employment status information. "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures.
Due to COVID-19 the jobs market is constantly changing. Some of the information may not reflect the current situation.
What's it like?
You would go to people’s homes and businesses and collect rubbish that can be used for a new purpose rather than just thrown away.
Your work would help people and industries re-use resources and reduce their impact on the environment.
You’d collect recyclable materials like:
- Glass
- Paper
- Plastics
- Metals
- Textiles
You would:
- Empty recycling boxes and wheelie bins into the collection vehicle
- Put the boxes and bins back and make sure nothing has been left behind
- Check that the right kind of materials have been put out for recycling
- Sort recyclables at the kerbside
- Use machinery to help you lift and sort items at the waste collection site and the recycling site
- Work on the conveyor belt at a waste plant, sorting waste and removing non-recyclable items
- Inspect materials for any contamination
- Speak to members of the public about recycling schemes
- Clean and maintain equipment
In some jobs you could also drive the waste collection vehicle.
You’d need to do a lot of lifting so fitness and stamina would be important. You’d also need to follow health and safety rules.
Working conditions
Hours
Environment
Travel
UK employment status
Full-time
93%
Part-time
5%
Self employed
2%
Top skills
Here are some of the skills needed for this job. Sign in to see how your skills match up.
- Adaptability
- Time management
- Concentrating
- Attention to detail
- Cooperating
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Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you’ll need.
Qualifications
There are no set qualifications to enter this job but qualifications at SCQF level 4/5 may be of value.
Useful subjects
- Maths
- English
- A science subject such as environmental science
You will also need
Some employers may require you to have a driving licence.
Helpful to have
Qualifications and experience that show physical fitness, health and safety and recycling skills.
Work-based qualifications such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Sustainable Resource Operations (SVQ level 2/3) can be helpful when entering this role or can be achieved once you are in work.
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