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Compost Operator Jobs in Mount Vernon, WA (NOW HIRING)

Compost Operator information

See Mount Vernon, WA salary details

$15

$26

$37

How much do compost operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for compost operator in Mount Vernon, WA is $26.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a compost operator?

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 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 popular job titles related to Compost Operator jobs in Mount Vernon, WA?

For Compost Operator jobs in Mount Vernon, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Mount Vernon, WA are hiring for Compost Operator jobs?

Cities near Mount Vernon, WA with the most Compost Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Compost Operator job openings in Mount Vernon, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,249 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Wastewater Treatment/Compost Apprentice, Maintenance Worker, or Operator

Port Townsend, WA • On-site

City of Port Townsend
Public Administration • 11 - 50 employees

$27.06 - $41.41/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

The City of Port Townsend is recruiting to fill one vacancy in the Wastewater Treatment/Compost division of Public Works at any of the levels described below depending on experience. We are also hiring a Crew Chief or Crew Chief Apprentice.This position performs the administrative tasks and physical labor related to the oversight, operations, and supervision of the Wastewater Treatment Plant and/or Compost Facility. The City of Port Townsend strives to provide quality and reliable infrastructure operations in service to the community and environment as the City looks toward a sustainable future. Complete job descriptions are available here.Maintenance Worker ApprenticePay Range: $27.06-30.74 hourly base pay range ($27.06-34.43 total pay range including maximum potential longevity pay)Minimum RequirementsHigh school diploma or GEDValid Washington State driver's license and ability to maintain a driving record acceptable to the City's insurance carrierCertified Compost Facility Operator certification issued by Washington Organics Recycling Council or must obtain within 3 years of employment in this positionFirst Aid/CPR certification or must obtain within 1 year of employmentFlagger Training Certification within the first 6 months in this position PreferredWA State Class A CDLCurrent First Aid/CPR CertificateCurrent Flagger Training CertificateMaintenance WorkerPay Range: $27.98-32.00 hourly base pay range ($27.98-33.34 total pay range including maximum potential longevity pay)Minimum RequirementsHigh school diploma or GEDValid Washington State driver's license and ability to maintain a driving record acceptable to the City's insurance carrierOne (1) year as a wastewater treatment or biosolids apprentice or equivalent relevant experienceWA State Wastewater Treatment OIT within 6 months of employmentWA State Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group I within 18 months of employmentCertified Compost Facility Operator certification issued by Washington Organics Recycling Council or must obtain within 3 years of employment in this position First Aid/CPR certification or must obtain within 1 year of employmentFlagger Training Certification within the first 6 months in this position Washington State CDL B or ability to obtain within 12 months in the positionPreferred qualificationsWA State Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group I2+ years' experience working in a wastewater or water related fieldWA State Class A CDLCurrent First Aid/CPR CertificateCurrent Flagger Training CertificateOperator IPay Range: $34.04-38.52 hourly base pay range ($34.04-43.14 total pay range including maximum potential longevity pay)Minimum RequirementsHigh school diploma or GEDValid Washington State driver's license and ability to maintain a driving record acceptable to the City's insurance carrierWA State Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group II or higher certification3+ years of experience working at a wastewater treatment plantCertified Compost Facility Operator certification issued by Washington Organics Recycling Council or must obtain within 3 years of employment in this positionFirst Aid/CPR certification or must obtain within 1 year of being in this positionFlagger Training Certification within the first 6 months in this position Washington State CDL B or ability to obtain within 12 months in the positionPreferred Qualifications5+ years' experience working in a wastewater treatment or related fieldWA State Class A CDLCurrent First Aid/CPR CertificateCurrent Flagger Training CertificateOperator IIPay Range: $36.46-41.41 hourly base pay range ($36.46-46.38 total pay range including maximum potential longevity pay)Minimum RequirementsHigh school diploma or GEDValid Washington State driver's license and ability to maintain a driving record acceptable to the City's insurance carrierWA State Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group II or higher certification8+ years of experience working at a classification II or higher Wastewater Treatment PlantCertified Compost Facility Operator certification issued by Washington Organics Recycling Council First Aid/CPR certification or must obtain within 1 year of being in this positionFlagger Training Certification within the first 6 months in this positionWashington State CDL B or ability to obtain within 12 months in the positionPreferred Qualifications3+ years of experience leading wastewater-related plant operations involving secondary treatmentWA State Class A CDLCurrent First Aid/CPR CertificateCurrent Flagger Training CertificateThis position may be eligible for the additional compensation listed below. Details can be found in the Collective Bargaining Agreement:Longevity pay on a graduated schedule starting at 2% after 5 years, up to 12% after 25 yearsRemote plant operations payEmergency response payPhone-watch payOvertime pay or compensatory timePremium pay or compensatory timeJury duty pay at regular rate during serviceCall-back payStandby payBENEFITSWA State PERS retirement and optional 457 Deferred CompTeamsters pension *Medical, dental, and vision insurance through WA Teamsters Welfare Trust Fund *Time loss/short-term disability insuranceLife & AD&D insuranceSick leave (earns 1 day per month)May be eligible for sick leave conversion annuallyVacation (graduated accrual schedule starts at 8 hours per month)12 paid holidaysEligible for up to 3 floating holidays based on years of service Mandatory safety shoe allowancePrescription safety glasses allowance, if required for jobUp to 5 days of bereavement leave, if applicableEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)* Teamsters initiation fee is $100 and monthly dues are 2.25 of hourly wage x the base hourly rate rounded to the nearest dollar. The City of Port Townsend is an equal employment opportunity employer.