You can do an intermediate apprenticeship as a waste resource operative.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
Recycling operative
Alternative titles for this job include Kerbside collector
Recycling operatives collect recyclables like glass, paper and plastics from homes and businesses for sorting at waste collection sites.
Average salary (a year)
£13,000 Starter
to£24,000 Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
41 to 43 a week
You could work
early mornings
How to become a recycling operative
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
Apprenticeship
Direct Application
You can apply to companies directly if you've got relevant skills and experience, for example from working in waste collection.
You may have an advantage if you've had forklift truck training or can drive a large goods vehicle.
More Information
Career tips
An employer may give you training on the job, for example to get your large goods vehicle licence.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a recycling operative from Talent Source Network and the Waste Management Industry Training and Advisory Board.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of public safety and security
- knowledge of recycling processes
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In your day-to-day tasks you may:
- empty recycling boxes and wheelie bins into the collection vehicle
- put boxes and bins back and make sure that you have left no litter
- use lifting machinery to help move and sort waste
- check that the right kind of materials have been put out for recycling
- sort waste and remove non-recyclable items
- inspect materials for any contamination
- speak to members of the public about recycling schemes
- clean and maintain equipment
Working environment
You could work at a waste recycling site or from a vehicle.
Your working environment may be dirty, physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
With qualifications and experience you could move into a supervisory role at a waste collection site.
Current opportunities
Apprenticeships In England
Waste Services Apprenticeship - Level 2
- Wage: £159.10 Weekly
- Location: Stoke-on-Trent
Courses In England
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