1st Shift Depackaging Center Equipment Operator

## Overview Job Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt ● Shift: 1st Shift | Monday–Friday | 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM ● Reports To: Depackaging Plant Manager ● Compensation: $21.00 – $25.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications ● Work Location: In person – Depackaging Center, North Mankato, MN **Benefits:** ● 401(k) ● 401(k) matching ● Dental insurance ● Health insurance ● Health savings account ● Life insurance ● Paid time off ● Retirement plan ● Vision insurance ● Short-term disability (STD) ● Long-term disability (LTD) ● Voluntary benefits ## Description Are you passionate about sustainability and ready to drive change? LJP Waste Solutions is a zero-landfill environmental services company on a mission to revolutionize the waste industry through innovative recycling, waste-to-energy solutions, and sustainable environmental practices, and we want YOU to be a part of it. **Why Join Us?** Since 1993, LJP has helped large manufacturing companies achieve their sustainability goals by providing innovative commercial waste and recycling solutions. Through our waste evaluations, recycling processes, and waste-to-energy programs, we help customers reduce landfill waste, recover valuable resources, and convert nonrecyclable materials into clean fuel. Our team is committed to environmental stewardship, operational excellence, and creating long-term value for the customers and communities we serve. At LJP, team members play a vital role in supporting a cleaner, more sustainable future while working in a culture built on safety, teamwork, accountability, and growth. LJP Waste Solutions is seeking a full-time 1st Shift Equipment Operator for our Depackaging Center, Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM. This position is eligible for a $2000 Hiring Bonus. The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating depackaging machinery, forklifts, skid steers, and related material-handling equipment to separate organic material from packaging and produce clean feedstock for downstream processing. This role reports directly to the Depackaging Plant Manager, and plays a key part in maintaining steady production flow, equipment reliability, and a safe work environment. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, safety-focused, and comfortable working in a fast-paced industrial processing environment. - Operate depackaging equipment (de-packagers, separators, grinders/extruders, and conveyors) to safely separate organic material from packaging - Operate forklifts, skid steers, and other material-handling equipment to feed infeed systems and manage outgoing organics and packaging residuals - Perform pre- and post-operation equipment inspections and routine preventative maintenance - Load and unload incoming waste streams and outgoing processed materials as directed - Monitor equipment performance, throughput, and output quality; make operational adjustments as needed - Follow all safety procedures, environmental regulations, and operational policies, including lockout/tagout and PPE requirements - Communicate with the Depackaging Plant Manager and team members to coordinate production schedules and report issues - Maintain accurate production, maintenance, and inspection logs in accordance with company policy - Identify and immediately report equipment malfunctions, jams, or safety hazards - Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area throughout the facility - Support overall plant operations and perform additional duties as assigned ## Requirements **Education / Training** ? High school diploma or equivalent required **Experience** ? 1–2+ years of experience operating industrial, agricultural, or heavy equipment preferred ? Experience in waste management, recycling, manufacturing, or industrial operations preferred ? Prior experience with forklifts, skid steers, or similar equipment strongly preferred **Required Skills** ? Mechanical aptitude and basic equipment troubleshooting skills ? Strong working knowledge of safety protocols an…