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Compactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$24.51 - $28.14/hr

The Senior Compactor Operator oversees the operations of two county convenience centers, including rotating weekends and during emergencies. This position involves supervising, training, and ...

Compactor Operator A Compactor Operator works in a high traffic warehouse and will operate various industrial equipment and machines, such as a trash compactor and bailer. The Compactor Operator also ...

$21/hr

Work involves operating mechanical device to compact solid waste and performing related duties at the facility. Work requires ability to follow instructions and is performed under close to general ...

The Compactor Operator must be able to perform the listed responsibilities in a safe and efficient manner. Duties and Responsibilities: * Operate and maintain compactors on construction sites

Porter

Bradenton, FL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

The Trash Compactor Operator manages waste efficiently and maintains a clean and organized workspace. Responsible for operating and maintaining the trash compactor equipment, ensuring the proper ...

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Compactor Operator information

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$14

$21

$29

How much do compactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for compactor operator in the United States is $21.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical workday look like for a Compactor Operator?

A typical workday for a Compactor Operator involves inspecting and preparing the compactor, operating the machine to compress waste or materials, and performing routine maintenance checks to ensure optimal performance. You’ll work closely with site supervisors and other equipment operators to coordinate tasks and maintain smooth workflow at construction sites, landfills, or recycling facilities. The role often requires being outdoors in varying weather conditions and adhering to strict safety protocols. Effective communication and situational awareness are important, as you'll frequently interact with other team members and be responsible for keeping work areas safe and organized.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Compactor operators can earn around $3,000 or more per month with experience, especially in industrial or waste management settings. These roles typically require on-the-job training, physical stamina, and knowledge of safety procedures, but often do not require a college degree. Other jobs that can pay similar wages without a degree include commercial truck drivers, HVAC technicians, and certain skilled trades, depending on experience and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Compactor Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Compactor Operator, you need experience operating heavy machinery, good hand-eye coordination, and a strong understanding of safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with specific compactor equipment, maintenance procedures, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are common requirements. Attention to detail, communication skills, and reliability are valued soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient operation of equipment, minimize downtime, and support overall site productivity.

What is a Compactor Operator job?

A Compactor Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery designed to compress and compact materials such as soil, waste, or asphalt. They work in construction, waste management, or road maintenance to ensure surfaces are stable and materials are properly condensed. Duties include inspecting equipment, following safety protocols, and maintaining efficiency during operation. This role requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and knowledge of machine operation and maintenance.

More about Compactor Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Compactor Operator jobs? Cities with the most Compactor Operator job openings:
What states have the most Compactor Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Compactor Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Compactor Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Compactor Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Compactor Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Full Time, 90% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $44,993 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

$24.51 - $28.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

The Senior Compactor Operator oversees the operations of two county convenience centers, including rotating weekends and during emergencies. This position involves supervising, training, and supporting Compactor Operators working during these hours, as well as performing maintenance and repairs on compactors and other site equipment.

The Senior Compactor Operator reports to the Compactor Operations Supervisor.

Essential Job Functions

Oversees operations of two convenience centers, including responding to last-minute staff schedule changes.

Makes repairs to convenience center sites and equipment.

Performs service on compactors and other site equipment.

Interacts with Solid Waste Division staff, other County departments, and contractors to coordinate service.

Performs initial investigation and completes reports for safety compliance.

Maintains informational signs.

Coordinates traffic flow at congested sites as needed.

Checks customer IDs to confirm they are residents and checks loads to avoid illegal dumping.

Greases compactors and repairs grease fittings.

Checks and changes hydraulic hoses.

Collects trash and recyclable materials from sites as needed.

Cleans self-contained compacters.

Repairs decks.

Maintains inventory of recycling bins.

Other Duties

Performs related work as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (These are pre-employment KSA that apply only to Essential Job Functions.)

Knowledge of--

  • Compactor operations and equipment.
  • Recycling materials.

Ability to--

  • Perform basic maintenance for compactor sites and equipment.
  • Provide training and supervision for Compactor Operators.
  • Deal effectively with the public in a customer service-oriented role.

Required Qualifications (Note: Any acceptable combination of education, training and relevant experience that provides the above knowledge, abilities and skills may be substituted on a full-time year for year basis.)

Training and/or Education:

High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Experience:

Seven years of experience as a compactor operator performing daily operations, providing customer service, and implementing prescribed policies, and two years of experience applying mechanical operations knowledge.

Licenses or Certificates:

Valid driver's license

Special Requirements:

None

Physical Demands:

Requires strenuous physical effort to perform manual work involving walking over rough, uneven terrain; repeated bending, climbing, crouching, stooping, stretching, and reaching; climbing ladders; and lifting objects to 50 pounds.

Unusual Demands:

The worker is exposed to solid waste and hazards from working with heavy equipment and tools at compactor sites. The worker is also exposed to dirt and dust, grease and mud, dampness or high humidity, rain or snow, and weather extremes of heat or cold.

On-call for emergency site repairs, schedule changes, and after-hours inclement weather response.

FLSA Status:

Nonexempt

Compensation Steps:

Pay rate: $24.51 - $28.14 per hour; $44,608 - $51,215 annually

Grade 717, full-time position, 35 hours per week

Department of Public Works, Solid Waste

Position closing date: June 15, 2026

Please Note: This position will close at 11:59 p.m. on June 15, 2026. To be considered for the role, ensure that your application is submitted before the deadline. The position will be removed from the website as of 12:00 a.m. on June 16th.

Calvert County Government offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees' health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Benefits include:

  • 15 days of sick leave
  • 10 days of annual leave
  • 5 days of personal leave
  • 13 paid holidays *14 in an election year
  • Defined Contribution Plan
  • 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Up to 80% tuition reimbursement
  • Gym membership discounts

Please Note: A complete application is required to be considered for a position within Calvert County Government. All prior work experience, education, and other certifications should be entered into the application and supplemental questions should be answered completely. Attachments are not provided to hiring managers unless you are selected for an interview.

Calvert County Government is committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact Human Resources at recruitment@calvertcountymd.gov with as much notice as possible.