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Compactor 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 ...

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 ...

$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 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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Compactor information

See salary details

$9

$27

$51

How much do compactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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 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, recycling centers, or construction sites, often requiring safety training and proper operation 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 is a compactor?

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 August 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 Operator

Reworld

Derwood, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Reworld rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th 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. Reworldreserves 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 sometimesselectively 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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