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Compost Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Pitkin County, CO

Heavy Equipment Operator

Aspen, CO · On-site

$52.04K - $91.07K/yr

When assigned to Solid Waste assists in compost operations and processing waste; assists in compost ... Level I: * Up to 1 year of equipment operating experience. * 24-hour HAZWOPER, SWANA waste ...

Vail Resorts

Environmental Agent

Crested Butte, CO · On-site

$20 - $22.92/hr

Assisting in coordinating and the waste recycling and compost programs.   * Handling, sorting ... Must be able to drive oversize trucks and be comfortable operating vehicles in tight areas such as ...

Larry H. Miller Senior Health

Dishwasher

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Remove trash and recyclables from kitchen areas, emptying garbage cans, compost bins, and recycling ... Stamina to stand for extended periods while operating dishwashing equipment and performing cleaning ...

Advanced Health Care of Lakewood

Dishwasher

Lakewood, CO

$16 - $18/hr

Remove trash and recyclables from kitchen areas, emptying garbage cans, compost bins, and recycling ... Stamina to stand for extended periods while operating dishwashing equipment and performing cleaning ...

Advanced Health Care of Lakewood

Dishwasher

Denver, CO · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Remove trash and recyclables from kitchen areas, emptying garbage cans, compost bins, and recycling ... Stamina to stand for extended periods while operating dishwashing equipment and performing cleaning ...

Vail Resorts

Manager: Transportation

Breckenridge, CO · On-site

$58.46K - $77.13K/yr

Manage trash, recycling, and compost removal operations in the base area, ensuring consistent ... zero net operating emissions by 2030. Safety & Compliance * Maintain compliance with all local ...

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Compost Operator information

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

To thrive as a Compost Operator, you need knowledge of composting processes, basic equipment operation, and an understanding of safety and environmental regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with machinery such as front-end loaders, temperature probes, and possibly compost management software is often required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are valuable soft skills. These abilities are essential to ensure efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible compost production.

What are some common challenges a Compost Operator faces, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Compost Operators often encounter challenges such as managing odors, maintaining optimal moisture and temperature levels, and dealing with varying feedstock quality. Addressing these issues requires consistent monitoring, timely adjustments to aeration and watering, and thorough record keeping. Collaborating closely with other team members, such as equipment operators and quality control personnel, helps to quickly identify problems and implement effective solutions, ensuring the composting process runs smoothly and meets environmental standards.

What are Compost Operators?

Compost Operators are professionals responsible for managing the process of turning organic waste materials into compost. They oversee the collection, sorting, and processing of biodegradable materials such as food scraps, yard waste, and agricultural residues. Their job involves monitoring compost piles for temperature, moisture, and aeration to ensure effective decomposition. Compost Operators also use specialized machinery and adhere to environmental regulations to produce high-quality compost for agricultural or landscaping use.

What is the difference between Compost Operator vs Waste Management Technician?

AspectCompost OperatorWaste Management Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operationOSHA safety training, waste handling certifications
Work EnvironmentComposting facilities, outdoorLandfills, recycling centers, outdoor/indoor
Industry UsageComposting plants, organic waste facilitiesWaste collection, recycling, disposal services

While both roles involve waste management and safety certifications, a Compost Operator specializes in managing composting processes at organic waste facilities, focusing on compost production. A Waste Management Technician handles broader waste collection and disposal tasks across various waste facilities. The roles overlap in safety training and outdoor work environments but differ in specific responsibilities and industry focus.

What are popular job titles related to Compost Operator jobs in Colorado? For Compost Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compost Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Compost Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Compost Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Compost Operator job openings:
Compost Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compost Operator job openings in Colorado as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pitkin County, CO

Aspen, CO • On-site

$52.04K - $91.07K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Salary : $52,041.81 - $91,073.22 Annually
Location : Aspen, CO
Job Type: Full-time with benefits, hourly
Job Number: 202300373
Department: Solid Waste Center
Opening Date: 03/19/2026
Bilingual Stipend: Yes
Hiring Minimum: $25.02
Hiring Maximum: $39.09
Pay Grade: P102
Hiring Range Description: The hiring range is the starting point of the pay range to the 4th quartile of the pay range. Starting pay will be determined based on qualifications and experience.
** Early applications are encouraged**
*Job Postings without Closing Dates:
Job postings that do not have a closing date will remain open until filled.
*Job Postings with Closing Dates:
An application deadline may be extended if the original deadline produced fewer applications than expected. Likewise, a job posting may be closed prior to the listed closing date if the number of applications reach the limit for that position.
Job Summary
Operates heavy equipment and tandem plow trucks to complete tasks within the Public Works department and assigned division.
Job Responsibilities
  • Operates heavy equipment to include, loader, snowplow, excavator, and haul truck.
  • Performs general road maintenance, grounds maintenance, and snow removal; loads trucks with soils and aggregates; able to operate various equipment.
  • Works with the line crew in digging ditches and trenches, hoisting material, tools, equipment, and any related work with a backhoe, road grater or front-end loader; performs routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refers defects or repairs to the supervisor; cleans equipment; assists in the installation and maintenance of traffic control devices. Plows snow and salts roads according to departmental policy; performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards.
  • Ability to work around and excavate near utilities including Gas, Electric, Water and Sewer
  • When assigned to Solid Waste assists in compost operations and processing waste; assists in compost and soils operations; manages scrap metal and tire piles; able to complete all housekeeping tasks related to the Solid Waste Center.
  • When assigned to Solid Waste, utilizes knowledge of Trimble 3D mapping systems while on equipment.
  • Performs general administrative duties including email correspondence, attending, and participating in meetings and training.
  • May need to act as a first responder to support in emergency situations.
  • Supports the relationship between Pitkin County government and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with citizens, visitors, and County staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and County information; performs other duties as required or assigned.

Minimum Qualifications, Knowledge and Skills
This position follows a sequence:
  • Level I:
    • Up to 1 year of equipment operating experience.
    • 24-hour HAZWOPER, SWANA waste screening course (completion within one-year of hire)
    • High school diploma or GED equivalent; Associate's Degree preferred.
    • Must possess a valid Colorado Driver's License and acceptable Motor Vehicle Record.
  • Level II (in addition to Level I):
    • 1-3 years of experience operating heavy equipment, proficiency in the loader and compactor.
    • Completion of SWANA Manager of Landfill Operations certification course.
    • E-waste handling training course.
  • Level III (in addition to Level II):
    • 3+ years of experience operating heavy equipment. Proficiency in operating excavator, dozer, trommel screen, and grinder.
    • Class B CDL with tanker endorsement.
    • Completion of Trimble GPS operations course.

Knowledge Of:
  • Safety policies, procedures, and practices for basic construction industry standards.
  • Inventory management methods and practices.
  • Personal protective equipment and proper use.
  • Equipment troubleshooting methods.
  • General maintenance practice and procedures.

Skill In:
  • Organizing and prioritizing work to meet deadlines and accomplish tasks.
  • Handling multiple tasks simultaneously, under pressure, and in emergency and stressful situations.
  • Microsoft Office Products and Google Suite.
  • Communicating effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.

Physical Demands and Working Environment
  • Work is performed throughout Pitkin County and requires exposure to potentially dangerous equipment, inclement weather conditions, and some hazardous substances.
  • Work is performed near active traffic.

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.
For more information, click for our 2025 Employee Benefits Guide in English. To review the version in Spanish, click

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