Top 5 Careers in the Recycling and Waste Management Industry

Canada’s waste management and recycling industry plays a vital role in resource conservation.  With a population spread across a vast, geographically diverse country, Canada faces unique challenges in managing its waste, with a waste per capita at 36.1 metric tons annually with an estimated total of 1.33 billion metric tons of waste per year.

The country’s waste generation and challenges can be explained by several factors. Canada’s expansive geography (land area of 9.98 million km2 with 41.6 million people) contributes to the complexity of waste management, with over 50% of waste management facilities located in rural areas despite only 17.8% of the population residing there.

Moreover, Canada’s significant export activities impact waste generation, with approximately 183,000 tonnes of plastic waste in 2022 and 391,607 tonnes of hazardous waste and hazardous recyclable material exported in 2017. Lastly, the decentralized nature of waste management in Canada, where responsibility is shared among federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, leads to varied practices across regions.

These factors underscore the need for skilled professionals in this sector, where innovative approaches and technologies are crucial for improving waste management systems.  Here are my top 5 careers in the waste management sector that highlight the key professionals needed to tackle Canada’s waste management challenges. 

1. Municipal Recycling Waste Handler

• Average Salary (CAD): $44,265/year
• Job description: Hazardous waste management technologists are responsible for investigating waste systems, maintaining hazardous material inventories, and ensuring safe disposal practices. They monitor occupational hygiene, oversee emergency response plans, and conduct inspections to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Additionally, they provide advice on waste management, assist in drafting policies, and work with environmental engineers to develop new waste treatment methods.
• Some required skills:
  • Operation of recycling equipment
  • Waste sorting and segregation
  • Safety and environmental compliance

2. Electronics Recycling Worker

• Average Salary (CAD): $43,137/year
• Job description: Electronics recycling workers disassemble electronic devices, safely dispose hazardous materials, and separate recyclable components like metals and plastics. They operate and maintain recycling equipment, ensure clean work areas, and keep records as required. In some plants, workers also assess the functionality of electronics, securely remove personal data, and refurbish devices for resale or donation.
• Some required skills:
  • Operating of recycling equipment
  • Material sorting and segregation
  • Safety and environmental compliance

3. Hazardous Waste Management Technologist

• Median salary (CAD):  $86,403/year
• Job description: Hazardous waste management technologists investigate waste systems, maintain hazardous material inventories, and ensure proper disposal of toxic materials. They conduct inspections, audits, and monitor cleanup efforts, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards. Additionally, they provide advice, write technical reports, and collaborate with industry and government to develop new methods and policies for managing hazardous waste.
• Some required skills: 
  • Hazardous material identification and classification 
  • Risk assessment and safety protocols 
  • Waste treatment and disposal techniques

4. Municipal Recycling Truck Driver

• Median salary (CAD):  $47,210/year
• Job description: Municipal recycling truck drivers are inspect and maintain their vehicles. This ensures that they are safe and in good working order before and after shifts. They follow assigned pickup routes, load recyclable materials into collection units, and interact with the public to provide recycling information. Additionally, they report any operational or safety issues, maintain cleanliness, and adhere to health and safety procedures, completing necessary paperwork along the way.
• Some required skills: 
  • Operation of collection vehicles
  • Navigation and route management
  • Technical troubleshooting 

5. Refuse Collector

• Median salary (CAD): $46,633/year
• Job description: Refuse collectors are responsible for emptying garbage containers into trucks, performing daily vehicle maintenance, and following safety procedures during waste collection. They operate waste management equipment, unload vehicles at designated disposal points, and maintain daily collection records. Refuse collectors also ensure compliance with municipal solid-waste bylaws and report violations to the foreperson.
• Some required skills: 
  • Operation of safety equipment
  • Routine maintenance of equipment and vehicles
  • Navigation and route management

The Canadian recycling and waste management industry is at a critical juncture, offering numerous career opportunities for those passionate about resource conservation. Given Canada’s growing waste challenges, this sector provides a unique chance to contribute to meaningful change.

Whether tackling rural waste management issues, improving industrial recycling practices, or managing hazardous waste, professionals in this field have the opportunity to make a lasting impact in this sector. As the sector expands, those entering these careers can play a pivotal role in reducing waste and conserving resources. 

NOTE: Job requirements for each career path may vary depending on the company, location, educational attainment, and specific job postings. Salary ranges are subject to regional differences and company policies.