Recycling Operations Manager

We're seeking an experienced Recycling Operations Manager to establish and lead our plastic recycling facility from startup through full-scale operations. You'll be instrumental in building our team, developing processes, ensuring compliance, and driving our sustainability mission forward.

This is more than a job – it's a chance to shape the future of plastic recycling in Canada and be part of the solution to one of our most pressing environmental challenges.

Responsibilities

Establish & Oversee Operations - Build and manage all recycling plant operations from ground up, including collection, sorting, processing, and quality control

Team Leadership - Recruit, train, and lead a high-performing operations team focused on safety, efficiency, and sustainability

Regulatory Compliance - Ensure adherence to federal and provincial environmental regulations, Federal Plastics Registry requirements, and EPR frameworks

Process Optimization - Implement continuous improvement strategies to maximize materials recovery rates and operational efficiency

Financial Management - Manage facility budgets, equipment procurement, vendor relationships, and P&L responsibilities

Strategic Partnerships - Develop relationships with municipalities, manufacturers, EPR programs, and industry stakeholders

Technology Implementation - Deploy modern recycling technologies, quality control systems, and data analytics tools

Safety & Culture - Create and maintain a workplace culture centered on safety, environmental stewardship, and excellence

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Waste Management, Operations Management, or related field
• OR
   7+ years of progressive management experience in recycling/waste management operations
• MBA or advanced degree is a plus
• Certifications (CRP, LEED, ISO highly valued

Experience:

• Minimum 5-7 years
   in recycling operations, waste management, or materials recovery facilities
• Proven leadership managing plant operations, teams employees), and budgets ($1M+)
• Direct experience with plastic recycling processes
   (sorting, shredding, washing, pelletizing)
• Experience with startup operations or facility launches 
  strongly preferred
• Knowledge of mechanical recycling and/or advanced recycling technologies

Technical Expertise:

• Deep understanding of plastic resin types (PET, HDPE, PP, LDPE, etc.) and recycling processes
• Familiarity with recycling equipment: balers, conveyors, optical sorters, shredders, granulators, washing systems
• Quality control standards and contamination prevention protocols
• Canadian environmental regulations and compliance requirements
• Federal Plastics Registry (FPR) reporting and EPR program frameworks

Industry Background:

Candidates with experience in one or more of these industries:

• Plastic recycling facilities or Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs)
• Waste management and environmental services
• Plastics manufacturing (injection molding, extrusion, thermoforming)
• Circular economy initiatives or sustainability programs
• Reverse logistics or product take-back programs
• Chemical/advanced recycling technology companies
• Municipal waste collection and processing operations

Why Join Us?

Impact:

Be part of Canada's Zero Plastic Waste Strategy

Contribute to circular economy transformation

Make a measurable environmental difference every day

Growth:

Ground-floor opportunity in a growing industry

Equity/ownership opportunities as we scale

Career advancement potential

Professional development and training support

Compensation & Benefits:

Competitive salary ($80K-$120) with performance bonuses

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

Professional development budget

Work with a mission-driven, passionate team.