Position Description

Recycling Assistant
Job Category Fulltime Temporary
ExemptOvertimeEligible Overtime Eligible
Benefits Eligible Benefit Based
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Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.


Job Summary

Under the direction of the Buildings & Grounds group, the Recycling employees work together as a team to collect, sort, and process recyclables collected from designated campus routes, including Student/Faculty Housing and campus events. The Recycling team is responsible for cleaning and maintaining the Campus Recycling Yard. Additionally, they represent and communicate with the campus community regarding Recycling programs.

Essential Job Duties

  • Collects, sorts, and process recyclable contents from recycling bins.
  • Operates forklifts, lift-gate truck, scout/fork-truck, baler, and pallet jack/hand trucks to move recycling materials to the Campus Recycling Yard.
  • Sorts CRV beverages/containers, collects mixed recyclables stream, breaks-down cardboard boxes, bales cardboard, and prepares bins containing recyclable for pick-up by recycling vendors.
  • Cleans recycling yard by sweeping, raking, picking up broken glass or loose paper debris, or moving collection bins.
  • Records logs of recycled materials, reports performance of various recycling sites activities, and monitors program performance.
  • Maintains effective communication with supervisors, recycling team, and campus staff participating in the recycling program.
  • Inspects recycling collection equipment and submits repair requests.
  • Completes special projects as assigned.
  • Assists with custodial operations during Recycling operations down-time (5:00am-7:00am), or as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

  • Must have 1 years of related work experience, preferably experience with reclamation, waste management, or recycling operations.
  • Must possess, or have the ability to obtain by the date of hire, a valid California Driver's License, and maintain it throughout the course of employment.
  • Must be able drive Institute vehicles and operate a hydraulic lift gate truck. 
  • Must adhere to the Institute's Motor Vehicle Use policy.
  • Must be able to drive and operate a forklift and have a current forklift operator’s certification.
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs. on a regular basis and work outdoors in all environments.
  • Ability to perform physical activities such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stopping, and handling of materials.

Required Documents

  • Resume

Hiring Range

$17.00 - $22.00 Per Hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.

Disability Accommodations

If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu

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