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Compost Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CookUnity

Stand-Up Forklift Operator & Receiver

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $20/hr

Properly manage waste, recycling, compost, and trash disposal in accordance with company and food safety standards. * Follow all company safety procedures, PIT operating protocols, and food safety ...

Sharing Excess

Warehouse Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

... compost waste handling. • Collaborate with warehouse associates and volunteers to streamline ... work. • Experience operating pallet jacks; rider jack experience required. • Forklift ...

Sharing Excess

Warehouse Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

... compost waste handling. ● Collaborate with warehouse associates and volunteers to streamline ... work. ● Experience operating pallet jacks; rider jack experience required. ● Forklift ...

Related

Janitor (Helper C)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25.10/hr

Support recycling and compost programs * Perform scent and cleanliness checks to ensure the ... owner/operator of real estate, managing hundreds of properties across multiple states and ...

Related

Janitor (Helper C)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.82/hr

Support recycling and compost programs * Perform scent and cleanliness checks to ensure the ... owner/operator of real estate, managing hundreds of properties across multiple states and ...

Related

Janitor (Helper C)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.82/hr

Support recycling and compost programs * Perform scent and cleanliness checks to ensure the ... owner/operator of real estate, managing hundreds of properties across multiple states and ...

Related

Janitor (Helper C)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25.10/hr

Support recycling and compost programs * Perform scent and cleanliness checks to ensure the ... owner/operator of real estate, managing hundreds of properties across multiple states and ...

City of Evanston

Maintenance Worker II

Evanston, IL

$35.79 - $90/hr

... soil, compost, wood chips, and other materials to work site and shovels, rakes, and levels ... Maintains City beaches by operating a motorized beach cleaner and removing materials by hand on a ...

City of Evanston

Maintenance Worker II

Evanston, IL · On-site

$35.80 - $41.88/hr

... soil, compost, wood chips, and other materials to work site and shovels, rakes, and levels ... Maintains City beaches by operating a motorized beach cleaner and removing materials by hand on a ...

STATE OF PLAY

Dishwasher

Chicago, IL

$16.60 - $21/hr

Operating in major cities across the U.S. under State of Play Hospitality and in more than 30 ... Maintain clean trash areas, assist with recycling and compost * Accurately execute instructions ...

All JobsCompost Operator JobsCompost Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Compost Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do compost operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for compost operator in Chicago, IL is $24.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $27.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Compost Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Compost Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compost Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Compost Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Compost Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compost Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,817 per year, or $24.4 per hour.
Stand-Up Forklift Operator & Receiver

Stand-Up Forklift Operator & Receiver

CookUnity

Chicago, IL

$17.50 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

 
The Role
 
The Stand-Up Forklift Operator & Receiver performs activities associated with the Marketplace. You will be responsible for the accurate receiving, safe handling, and efficient movement of inventory throughout the warehouse using stand-up forklift equipment.
  • Operate a stand-up forklift to receive, unload, and move incoming shipments safely and efficiently.
  • Receive, inspect, and verify incoming shipments for accuracy, quality, and damages, reporting discrepancies as needed.
  • Stock, store, and rotate inventory in warehouse, cooler, and freezer areas using FIFO (First In, First Out) procedures.
  • Load and unload trucks, pallets, racks, and storage areas using PIT (Powered Industrial Truck) equipment.
  • Safely maneuver forklift in tight aisles, narrow racking, and cooler/freezer environments.
  • Pick, pack, and prepare products for order fulfillment and delivery as needed.
  • Maintain accurate inventory records using warehouse management or inventory software.
  • Conduct cycle counts and weekly inventory audits to ensure inventory accuracy.
  • Label products with lot numbers, expiration dates, stock numbers, and other required information.
  • Monitor inventory movement and replenish stock as needed to maintain product availability.
  • Perform routine pre- and post-shift forklift inspections and report any equipment issues.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and food-safe warehouse, cooler, and freezer environment.
  • Properly manage waste, recycling, compost, and trash disposal in accordance with company and food safety standards.
  • Follow all company safety procedures, PIT operating protocols, and food safety regulations.
Requirements
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • (CAN - Secondary School Diploma or equivalent/ Authorized to work in Canada).
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Bilingual (Spanish & English).
  • Familiarity with computers required.
  • Previous experience operating a stand-up forklift required.
  • PIT (Powered Industrial Truck) certification required, or ability to obtain certification upon hire.
  • Previous experience in warehouse work or receiving preferred.
  • Push and pull up to 200 pounds and lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Stand for long periods of time.
  • Comfortable operating equipment in temperature-controlled environments (cooler/freezer).
  • Availability to work rotating schedules.

We Offer

  • Health Insurance coverage 401k Plan.
  •  Family meal served daily.
  •  Weekly payments . 
  • Opportunity for advancement.

Apply