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Compactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About the role Reporting to the Supervisor, the Compactor Operator operates a Stationary Compactor to process municipal solid waste. The position involves the safe and efficient operation of a high ...

About the role Reporting to the Supervisor, the Compactor Operator operates a Stationary Compactor to process municipal solid waste. The position involves the safe and efficient operation of a high ...

$25.17 - $28.90/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 ...

Filling in for other positions as needed, including/but not limited to, equipment operator, compactor operator and shuttle driver occasionally * Aid mechanic on equipment repairs requiring additional ...

Material Handler

Manassas, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/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 ...

Filling in for other positions as needed, including/but not limited to, equipment operator, compactor operator and shuttle driver occasionally * Aid mechanic on equipment repairs requiring additional ...

Porter

Lake Worth, FL · On-site

$16.50 - $18.50/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 ...

Porter

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$13 - $14/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 Aug 11, 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 compactor operator do?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a compactor operator?

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?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,993 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Compactor Operator

Reworld

Derwood, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Reworld rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Who we are
For more than 40 years, Reworld has been a leader in sustainable waste solutions, providing our customers with innovative solutions that help them achieve carbon-negative outcomes.
Our Vision
Reworld is leading the charge to a carbon-negative future through revolutionary sustainable materials management solutions that reduce, reuse, recycle and reimagine waste for the benefit of society and the environment.
Our Business
Reworld partners with businesses by offering cutting-edge engineering and innovative solutions, to help customers reduce, reuse, recycle and recover value from waste streams and meet or exceed their sustainability goals.
Our Value
Reworld's differentiator comes from our ecosystem of technology, facilities and partnerships, trusted by the world's largest organizations to reimagine waste management for a smarter, more sustainable world.
All that we're missing is you. Apply today!
About the role
Reporting to the Supervisor, the Compactor Operator operates a Stationary Compactor to process municipal solid waste. The position involves the safe and efficient operation of a high-pressure hydraulic Compactor, completing daily pre-trip inspections and lubrication of the Compactor, opening and closing intermodal container doors, directing truck traffic to and from the Compactors, and periodic clean-up of the Compactor during and after operations. In addition, this position also includes assisting with traffic control and direction on the grounds and Tipping Floor areas of the Transfer Station, periodic clean-up of the Site, and supporting daily operations as directed by the Shift Supervisor.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate and maintain hydraulic compactor.
  • Assist with traffic flow.
  • Complete minor mechanical repairs.
  • Keeping area neat/safe

Qualifications
  • GED/HS Diploma preferred; Reworld offers GED Works- a fully funded program for employees to achieve their GED.
  • One (1) year of prior experience working at sites regulated by OSHA, preferably in a solid waste handling facility
  • Ability to demonstrate how your actions support Reworld Values and Behaviors, including Safe and Inclusive Workplace, Delivering Results through Trust and Building Breakthrough Capabilities.
  • Mechanical, equipment or trade school certificate or training preferred.

Physical Demands
  • Ability to walk, stand, sit, and climb
  • Ability to lift/carry 50lbs
  • Ability to work from heights and in confined spaces
  • Qualify to wear a full-face respirator
  • Consistently work in various weather conditions

Shift: Rotating shift schedule and work overtime as needed, including nights and weekends.
What Reworld Offers You
  • Health Care Benefits - start 1st day of employment
  • Wellness Program Incentives & Rewards
  • 401k - match up to 7%
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation & Holiday)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Referral Bonus

All Reworld positions require a candidate's ability to perform the duties and responsibilities of the role while upholding Reworld's Values, including (but not limited to) contributing to a safe and inclusive workplace, delivering results through trust, and building breakthrough capabilities.
Please note that Level, Title and/or Salary may be adjusted based on the applicant's experience or skills.
Pay Transparency
Reworld is committed to paying its staff equitably, and we strive to provide competitive compensation and benefits packages. The range below reflects Reworld's reasonable estimate of base pay for this role based on primary posting location. It is expected that most qualified candidates in this location will fall within the posting range. The final salary offered for this role will be determined based on factors including, but not limited to: experience, education, geographic location, skills and competencies, travel requirements and/or union contracts (if applicable). Pay ranges are reviewed from time to time and may be modified in the future.
The pay range for the primary location of this position is: 22.60 - 30.10 USD per hour
Reworld™ provides an industry-leading benefits package that supports the whole person-and their families-through a balanced approach to mental, physical, and financial wellbeing. Regular full-time employees based in the USA have access to comprehensive medical, prescription drugs, dental, and vision coverage, FSA, HSA, short- and long-term disability benefits. Our 401(k) plan is industry-leading, with an up to 7% company match. Additional benefits include Company-paid life and AD&D insurance, EAP, paid parental leave, and educational assistance. For more information regarding these offerings, please visit the Reworld Careers Benefits Page. Reworld™ reserves the right to amend, suspend or terminate any benefit plan, in whole or in part, at any time.
Our DEI Commitment
Reworld is an Equal Opportunity Employer, has developed an Affirmative Action Program (AAP), and will not discriminate against any qualified applicants because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability (including perceived disability, physical, mental, and/or intellectual disabilities), veteran status, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Know Your Rights (Click to view poster)
If you are an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site because of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by going to Reworldwaste.com and clicking on the 'Contact Us' button. Under Inquires, select 'Careers' in the Interest field, fill out all required fields including your message. In the message section, please note this is a 'Job Application Accommodation Request'.
Attention Staffing Agencies & Search Firms
Reworld may sometimes selectively collaborate with staffing agencies and search firms (Agencies). Reworld will only consider candidates from Agencies with whom a signed agreement and a duly authorized work order (for a specific role) has been duly executed. Any unsolicited candidate submissions or candidate submissions from Agencies that do not meet these criteria, will be deemed invalid and ineligible for any fees.

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