Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In our increasingly paperless society, the focus on document shredding and recycling specialists has never been stronger.

As businesses evolve, the demand for meticulous professionals who can efficiently dispose of, and recycle sensitive documents grows louder.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly is expected from a document shredding and recycling specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the crux of this role,
• A hiring manager in the process of outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the inner workings of document shredding and recycling,

You’re in the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable document shredding and recycling specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialists are responsible for the secure destruction and recycling of sensitive documents in accordance with privacy laws and organizational policies.

They play a crucial role in preserving the confidentiality of business and client information.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Operating and maintaining document shredding machinery
• Ensuring that all documents are destroyed in a secure and confidential manner
• Sorting documents that need to be shredded from those that need to be recycled
• Adhering to the document retention and destruction policies of the organization
• Transporting documents from client locations to the shredding facility
• Performing routine checks and maintenance on shredding machinery to ensure optimal performance
• Ensuring that the shredding area is kept clean and free from hazards
• Documenting the shredding process and maintaining records of shredded and recycled materials
• Keeping up to date with privacy laws and regulations related to document destruction
• Recycling shredded material in an environmentally responsible manner

 

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a meticulous and responsible Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist to join our team.

Your responsibilities will include handling, sorting, and shredding sensitive documents, ensuring they are securely destroyed and recycled.

You will need to follow strict procedures to maintain confidentiality and adhere to environmental regulations.

Our ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail, excellent organizational skills, and a strong commitment to maintaining privacy and promoting sustainability.

 

Responsibilities

• Handle and sort sensitive documents for shredding and recycling
• Operate shredding and recycling machines safely and efficiently
• Ensure all materials are properly destroyed and recycled according to company standards and regulations
• Maintain records of destroyed materials
• Perform routine maintenance on shredding and recycling machinery
• Adhere to privacy laws and regulations regarding document handling
• Assist with other warehouse duties as needed

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar role or warehouse environment
• Knowledge of document shredding and recycling processes
• Familiarity with privacy laws and regulations
• Ability to operate and maintain shredding and recycling machines
• Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist
• Work Environment: Warehouse setting. Physical activity including lifting and operating machinery is required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Warehouse Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist Do?

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialists work for both public and private sector organizations that need sensitive or confidential documents to be destroyed in a secure manner.

They are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of paper shredding machinery, ensuring that documents are completely destroyed and are not recoverable.

Their job often involves sorting and organizing documents to be shredded, feeding them into the shredder, and properly disposing of the shredded material.

In addition, they are in charge of recycling shredded documents by segregating paper waste and delivering them to a recycling facility.

They must strictly follow the data protection laws and regulations to maintain the confidentiality of the documents.

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialists also perform routine maintenance on shredding machinery and address any technical issues to ensure its optimal performance.

They may also be tasked with providing a certificate of destruction to their clients as a proof that the documents have been securely destroyed.

Their work requires a great deal of trust and professionalism due to the sensitive nature of the documents they handle.

 

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist should possess skills and qualifications that align with your job requirements, such as:

• Attention to detail to ensure proper and thorough destruction of all sensitive documents and materials
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulations regarding the secure destruction and recycling of documents
• Physical stamina and strength to handle heavy equipment and materials throughout the workday
• Technical abilities to operate, maintain and troubleshoot various types of shredding and recycling machinery
• Problem-solving skills to efficiently identify and resolve issues that may arise during the shredding and recycling processes
• Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with coworkers, management, and clients
• Organizational skills to manage and keep track of various document batches and recycling processes
• Commitment to safety procedures and protocols to maintain a safe work environment
• Customer service skills to answer queries and concerns from clients regarding the shredding and recycling process

 

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Document Shredding and Recycling Specialists may not require any prior experience in the field.

However, they should have a basic understanding of document handling, machinery operation, and principles of recycling.

This knowledge can often be gained through vocational training programs, internships, or part-time roles in waste management or similar fields.

In general, employers may prefer candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience in a document management or disposal role.

During this period, specialists can gain practical skills in operating shredding equipment, sorting and categorizing documents, and adhering to confidentiality and data protection regulations.

Specialists with more than 3 years of experience may possess deeper knowledge of document shredding and recycling processes, as well as relevant laws and regulations.

They often have experience in handling more complex tasks, such as coordinating large-scale shredding projects or managing document disposal for sensitive information.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience under their belt.

They may be well equipped to oversee a team of shredding and recycling specialists, manage client relationships, and ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations related to document disposal and recycling.

 

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist Education and Training Requirements

A Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent education.

Though there are no specific educational programs for this role, some related experience or training in waste management or recycling operations can be beneficial.

Knowledge of the standard procedures for handling and disposing of confidential documents is essential, which can be gained through on-the-job training or through certain vocational programs.

In addition, they must be well-versed with the guidelines established by various privacy laws and regulations like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA), which can be learned through professional training courses.

Certifications such as Certified Secure Destruction Specialist (CSDS) offered by the National Association for Information Destruction (NAID) can provide an edge over other candidates and indicate a commitment to the profession.

Safety training, including understanding the operation of shredding and recycling machinery and equipment, is also crucial in this role.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) compliance training is often recommended for this position.

Physical fitness is often required for this position due to the manual handling of documents and operation of heavy machinery.

Continual learning and staying updated with the latest document destruction and recycling technologies is beneficial in this field.

 

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist is around $30,000 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may vary based on factors such as experience, location, size of the employing organization, and specific job responsibilities.

 

Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist need?

A Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist should have strong organizational skills to handle and process large volumes of documents effectively.

They must have a good attention to detail to ensure that all sensitive information is completely destroyed.

Basic mechanical skills are also necessary to operate and maintain shredding equipment.

A strong understanding of recycling protocols and waste management is also beneficial.

 

Do Document Shredding and Recycling Specialists need any specific qualifications?

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for this role.

While a degree is not necessary, some employers prefer candidates with a certification in waste management or a related field.

Training on confidentiality regulations, such as HIPAA for medical documents, can also be a plus.

 

What should you look for in a Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist resume?

Look for previous experience in a role that required handling sensitive documents.

Experience with industrial shredding machines or other large equipment can be a plus.

Knowledge of recycling protocols and waste management is also beneficial.

If the role involves handling medical or legal documents, any training on relevant confidentiality regulations should be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist?

A good Document Shredding and Recycling Specialist is diligent and meticulous, ensuring that all sensitive documents are completely destroyed.

They are reliable and trustworthy, as they often handle confidential information.

They should also be committed to environmental sustainability, as their role involves recycling shredded materials.

 

Is it difficult to hire Document Shredding and Recycling Specialists?

The challenge in hiring Document Shredding and Recycling Specialists often lies in finding candidates with the right combination of practical skills and trustworthiness.

As they will handle sensitive and confidential information, it is crucial to conduct thorough background checks.

Adequate training is also necessary to ensure they can effectively use shredding equipment and adhere to recycling protocols.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the intriguing world of being a document shredding and recycling specialist.

Guess what?

It’s not merely about shredding documents.

It’s about safeguarding information confidentiality and promoting environmental sustainability, one shredded paper at a time.

With our comprehensive document shredding and recycling specialist job description template and real-world illustrations, you’re primed to make your move.

But why end the exploration here?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every shred of paper contributes to a safer, greener world.

Let’s make that world a reality. Together.

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