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Compactor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eastern Lift Truck Co. Retail Service Technician Currently, we are seeking a Retail Service Technician in the Virginia Beach, VA area. We offer tremendous opportunity for growth, competitive ...

Eastern Lift Truck Co. Retail Service Technician Currently, we are seeking a Retail Service Technician in the Worcester, MA area. We offer tremendous opportunity for growth, competitive compensation ...

Eastern Lift Truck Co. Retail Service Technician Currently, we are seeking a Retail Service Technician in the Allentown, PA area and surrounding areas . We offer tremendous opportunity for growth ...

Eastern Lift Truck Co. Retail Service Technician Currently, we are seeking a Retail Service Technician to support a customer in the Connecticut area. We offer tremendous opportunity for growth ...

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The Compactor Technician/Welder will assist with the day-to-day operations of maintaining compactors, such as troubleshooting hydraulic systems, electrical systems, and welding/fabricating. In ...

Compactor Repair Technician

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

The Compactor Repair Technician is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, and repair of compactors used in waste and recycling operations. This role involves diagnosing mechanical, electrical ...

A local company is seeking an individual to take out the trash and use the trash compactor. Additionally, you will be pulling orders using a cherry picker and loading and unloading 200 to 300 pieces ...

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Compactor information

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$9

$27

$51

How much do compactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for compactor in the United States is $27.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Compactor vs Loader?

AspectCompactorLoader
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, waste management facilities, recycling plantsConstruction sites, warehouses, construction zones
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, waste management, recycling industriesConstruction, logistics, material handling industries

Compactors and loaders often share similar certifications and work environments, especially in construction and waste management sectors. While compactors focus on compressing materials, loaders are used for moving and lifting materials. Both roles are essential in construction and waste industries, but they serve different functions on the job site.

What does a compactor operator do?

A compactor operator operates machinery used to compress and compact waste, recyclables, or soil to reduce volume and prepare materials for disposal or processing. They inspect equipment, follow safety procedures, and may need certifications depending on the industry. The job typically involves working in waste management, construction, or recycling facilities and requires attention to safety and operational protocols.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A compactor operator can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, especially in industrial or construction settings that require operating heavy machinery. High-paying roles in skilled trades, such as crane operators or specialized equipment operators, may also reach this level without a college degree, often requiring certifications and on-the-job training.

What's the highest paying job in waste management?

In waste management, the highest paying roles are often supervisory or managerial positions such as Waste Management Directors or Operations Managers, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles typically require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of environmental regulations and waste processing technologies.

What do compactors do?

Compactors operate machinery that compresses waste, recyclables, or other materials to reduce volume and facilitate disposal or storage. They work in environments such as landfills, construction sites, or recycling facilities and often require safety training and proper equipment handling skills.

What are some common safety challenges faced by Compactors, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Compactors often work in environments where heavy machinery and moving vehicles are present, making safety a top priority. Common challenges include maintaining awareness of surroundings, preventing equipment malfunctions, and managing exposure to dust or noise. To address these, employers typically provide comprehensive safety training, require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and enforce strict protocols for equipment maintenance and site communication. Regular safety briefings and clear signage also help ensure a safe work environment.

What are compactors and what do they do?

Compactors are machines or devices used to reduce the size of material through compaction, primarily by applying pressure to compress waste, soil, or other materials. Commonly used in construction, waste management, and recycling, compactors help minimize space needed for disposal or transport. They come in various types, such as trash compactors, plate compactors, and landfill compactors, each designed for specific tasks. By using compactors, organizations can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and promote cleaner environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Compactor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Compactor, you need a good understanding of heavy machinery operation, basic mechanical skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with compactor equipment, safety regulations, and sometimes OSHA certification are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication help ensure safe and efficient work on construction sites. These skills and qualifications are important for maintaining safety standards, minimizing downtime, and achieving project goals efficiently.
More about Compactor jobs
What cities are hiring for Compactor jobs? Cities with the most Compactor job openings:
What states have the most Compactor jobs? States with the most job openings for Compactor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Compactor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $56,446 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Compactor/Baler Technician

elt

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Eastern Lift Truck Co. 
Retail Service Technician 

Currently, we are seeking a Retail Service Technician in the Virginia Beach, VA area. We offer tremendous opportunity for growth, competitive compensation and benefits for individuals who want a career with a great company that maintains a family feel! 
 

TheRetail Service Technicianwill primarily be responsible for repairing, diagnosing, inspecting, and maintaining all makes and models of vertical balers, trash compactors, self – constrained trash compactors, electric jacks, dock levelers, edge of docks, dock seals, and handicap carts/scooters. 

Main Duties: 

  • Repair, diagnose, inspect, and maintain all makes and models of Vertical Balers, Trash Compactors, Self-Contained Trash Compactors, Electric Jacks, Dock Levelers, Edge of Docks, Dock Seals, and Handicap Carts / Scooters 

  • Provide courteous and professional service 

  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment in compliance with Company and OSHA Standards 

Requirements: 

  • 2+ years’ experience diagnosing and repairing compactors, balers, and/or other industrial equipment 

  • Working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems 

  • Ability to read electrical and hydraulic schematics 

  • Welding / fabricating experience 

  • Experience as a road mechanic a plus 

  • Exceptional customer service skills 

  • Must have own tools 

  • Clean driving record 

  •  

Compensation:

This position is paid hourly with a pay range of $20.00/hr. - $35.00/hr. Compensation is based on experience.

Benefits: 

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription plan. 401k with partial company match, paid vacation and sick days, paid holidays, short- & long-term disability, and basic/supplemental life insurance policies. 

  • Company service vehicle, company fuel card and company cell phone will be provided.  

Who is Eastern Lift Truck Co.? 

Eastern Lift Truck Co., is a family-owned company, celebrating over 50 years strong. We provide sales, parts, rentals and service in all areas of the Lift Truck, Material Handling and Allied product business.  
At Eastern Lift Truck Co. we know that the employees are the ‘heart and soul’ of the company. 

Find out more at: www.easternlifttruck.com 
 

“Eastern Lift Truck Co. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer including Disabled/Vets”