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Compost Operator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Developing and managing operating budgets, financial plans, and key performance indicators ... Compost Crew service discounts * Free CSA produce during seasonal months * Team gatherings ...

Developing and managing operating budgets, financial plans, and key performance indicators ... Compost Crew service discounts * Free CSA produce during seasonal months * Team gatherings ...

... compost pile WE: · love to promote from within · aren't afraid to make mistakes and learn from ... at the front end (operating the register and bagging) and will be a helpful hand to other ...

... are proud of your compost pile WE: • love to promote from within • aren't afraid to make ... at the front end (operating the register and bagging) and will be a helpful hand to other ...

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Compost Operator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$24

$35

How much do compost operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for compost operator in Reston, VA is $24.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $28.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Reston, VA? For Compost Operator jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Compost Operator jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Compost Operator job openings:
Environmental Technician (Rockville, MD)

Environmental Technician (Rockville, MD)

Compost Crew

Rockville, MD • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Grow Your Career at Compost Crew Join us at Compost Crew, a locally owned fast-growing organics recycling company based in Maryland. We inspire people to make food waste recycling part of everyday life through easy, reliable, and rewarding solutions. We're rescuing over 30 million pounds of unwanted food scraps from the landfill per year, helping to retain valuable nutrients by converting the food scraps into a rich soil amendment - compost.

Compost Crew is the largest organic recycling company in our region, serving over 20,000 homes, businesses, communities and governments throughout Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. We're innovative leaders in the elimination of food waste, revitalization of our soil and sustainability. At Compost Crew, you'll enjoy a friendly work environment where you'll be treated with appreciation and respect

You'll make a real difference in the well-being of our community and environment as you help create a world where every scrap of food is rescued or recycled. Position Overview Do you have a passion for the environment and sustainability. Are you interested in a career processing food scraps into high-quality soil amendment.

We are hiring an Environmental Technician to perform composting operations at our innovative Compost Outposts located in Maryland. As Environmental Technician, you will work closely with Composting team members to turn food scraps from our customer base into nutrient-rich compost. You will have the chance to learn how to operate farm equipment/machinery as well as commercial vehicles.

This is a great opportunity for you if you want to build your career in sustainability while you earn competitive pay. This is a full-time position of at least 30 hours per week with comprehensive benefits. Starting pay $19.00 - $20.00/hr

Responsibilities Perform composting operations at our Compost Outpost: Perform weekly composting operations by following all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as specified in the Compost Facility Operating Plan (CFOP), to include but not limited to: Facility set-up and breakdown Complete decontamination procedures Complete proper material monitoring and mixing with temperature, moisture, porosity, and bulk density recommendations Complete aerated static pile (ASP) inputs and outputs, as well as passive aeration windrow turning. Comply with health and safety requirements as specified in the Health and Safety Plan (HASP) Record and maintain composting operation metrics including, but not limited to; feedstocks received, pile temperatures, Carbon to Nitrogen ratios, bay(s) used, moisture, working hours, and any additional notes. Perform compost sifting tasks and coordinate compost application, purchases, and hauling as needed.

Maintain feedstocks including carbon feedstocks and nitrogen feedstocks (waste organics generated from our routing system) Ability to learn how to complete pre and post skid-steer checks and preventative maintenance procedures Ability to learn how to perform compost mixing and movement tasks with equipment/machinery Ability to learn how to operate and perform maintenance on equipment and vehicles including but not limited to; a front-end loader (FEL), skid-steer, sifter, conveyor, ASP system and pickup truck with trailer. Keep up to date with certifications required for and sponsored by Compost Crew Attend classes, seminars, conferences and other assigned educational activities to stay up-to-date on composting industry and innovation techniques Perform composting operations tasks at other sites in region as needed Support the Composting Division with any additional projects or tasks Key Requirements Proficient in English (both reading and writing) Ability to lift at 55 pounds Commitment to learn how to operate industrial and farm equipment and/or machinery Enthusiasm for the mission of protecting the planet and reducing waste Effective listening skills. Clear communication and organizational skills Capable of taking on multiple tasks with minimal supervision Attention to detail Flexibility to adapt to a fast-changing work environment Team player willing to share and learn from other members of the team, and to learn from your peers' best practices Disciplined adherence to procedures, instructions and assignments when working in team and working independently Safety-first mindset Ability to work with trash and food scraps Ability to obtain DOT medical card & pass drug and alcohol test (company pays for exam & test) Proficient in Microsoft Office products, Google applications, spreadsheets, and other systems tools Ability to travel to sites throughout region on occasional basis (no overnight travel required) Access to reliable transportation to and from regional sites - public transportation and rideshares services are not viable options given location of sites Access to cell phone for reporting and communications U.S.-issued driver's license in good standing Clean driving record Access to personal vehicle for travel to Frederick location and regional travel Availability for at least 6 hrs per daily Mon

- Fri., typically between 9 am - 5 pm Availability for occasional work hours in very early morning, late afternoon and weekends Availability for occasional overtime U.S. employment authorization Other Helpful Background Experience in an environmental field including composting, farming, environmental education and sales opportunities Interest in becoming a Compost Facility Operator (CFO) as certified by the State of Maryland and any other certifications as needed by local and State regulatory agencies. Already having a CFO certification is a plus

CDL license Motivation to learn how to drive commercial vehicles requiring DOT medical card Compensation and Benefits Starting pay $19 - $20/hr At least 30 hours/week Top-tier medical insurance with generous contribution for self and dependents Dental, vision, life, ADD and long-term disability insurance 401k retirement plan Paid Time Off/Paid holidays Employee Assistance Program Schedule: At least 6 hours daily Monday to Friday EEO Employer Learn more about Compost Crew at: https://compostcrew.com Department: Composting This is a non-management position This is a full time position