Associate in Iowa City, Iowa at Can Shed

About Company:

CUSTOMER SERVICE & REDEMPTION REPRESENTATIVE

Full-Time Opportunity Available

Can Shed | Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Join a Team That's Making a Difference Every Day

At Can Shed, we're more than a recycling center—we're a community partner, an environmental leader, and a company committed to making Iowa a cleaner, stronger place to live.

Since 1997, Can Shed has proudly served Eastern Iowa by providing convenient container redemption services while creating meaningful environmental and economic impact.

Every bottle and can redeemed helps reduce waste, conserve resources, support local charities, and strengthen our communities.

The Impact We Make Together

♻️ Divert over 9.2 million pounds of recyclable material from Iowa landfills annually

🌎 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve valuable natural resources

💲 Contribute approximately $27 million annually to Iowa's economy

🤝 Support more than 127 nonprofit organizations and help raise over $300,000 each year for local causes

🏆 Provide stable employment opportunities while helping Iowa become a cleaner and more sustainable place to live

When you join Can Shed, you become part of something bigger than a job—you become part of a mission.

Top Reasons Employees Choose Can Shed

Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays

Enjoy paid time away from work to spend with family, recharge, and take care of life's important moments.

Flex Pay

Access earned wages before payday through our Flex Pay program, giving you additional financial flexibility when you need it.

Retirement Benefits

Build your future with access to retirement savings benefits designed to support long-term financial security.

Stable Year-Round Employment

Work in an essential industry that provides dependable hours and consistent employment throughout the year.

Daytime Schedule

Enjoy a schedule that allows you to be home most evenings and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Growth Opportunities

We believe in promoting from within and developing employees through training, cross-training, and advancement opportunities.

Team-Oriented Culture

Work alongside supportive teammates who value respect, accountability, and customer service.

Meaningful Work

Every shift helps protect the environment, support local nonprofits, and serve the community.

About the Role

As a Customer Service & Redemption Representative, you will be the first point of contact for customers visiting Can Shed.

This role combines customer service, cash handling, container verification, and facility support responsibilities. You'll help customers redeem their containers accurately and efficiently while creating a welcoming experience that keeps them coming back.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working with people, staying active throughout the day, and being part of a mission-driven organization.

What You'll Do

Customer Service

• Welcome customers with a friendly and professional attitude
• Assist new customers with understanding redemption procedures
• Answer questions and provide exceptional customer service
• Promote current programs, services, and fundraising opportunities

Container Verification & Processing

• Verify redeemable beverage containers according to Iowa redemption guidelines
• Count containers accurately and efficiently
• Identify non-deposit containers
• Assist customers with sorting and redemption procedures

Cash Handling & Transactions

• Process transactions accurately through the point-of-sale system
• Handle cash and make change correctly
• Balance cash drawers and complete required documentation
• Follow all cash handling and security procedures

Facility Operations

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe customer service area
• Restock supplies and organize workstations
• Monitor and maintain outdoor sorting areas when applicable
• Complete daily cleaning and operational checklists

Team Support

• Crosstrain with warehouse operations
• Assist teammates during busy periods
• Participate in training and continuous improvement initiatives
• Support a positive and productive work environment

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

✔ High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent

✔ Strong customer service and communication skills

✔ Ability to work independently and as part of a team

✔ Strong attention to detail and accuracy

✔ Ability to remain productive in a fast-paced environment

✔ Ability to lift up to 40 pounds repeatedly throughout the day

✔ Ability to stand, walk, bend, and perform physical tasks throughout a shift

✔ Willingness to learn and accept coaching

✔ Reliable transportation and proof of automobile insurance when required

Preferred Qualifications

✔ Previous customer service experience

✔ Bilingual English/Spanish skills

✔ Retail or cash handling experience

✔ Forklift experience

✔ Experience operating pallet jacks or hand carts

✔ First Aid/CPR certification

✔ Leadership or supervisory experience

What Success Looks Like

Successful team members:

• Deliver excellent customer service
• Process transactions accurately
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment
• Work well with teammates
• Demonstrate accountability and professionalism
• Contribute to Can Shed's mission and values every day

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're looking for a stable position with a company that values teamwork, customer service, community involvement, and environmental responsibility, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help turn recycling into positive change for Iowa communities.

Can Shed is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.