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Compost Operator Jobs in Summerville, SC (NOW HIRING)

Compost Operator information

See Summerville, SC salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do compost operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for compost operator in Summerville, SC is $21.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $24.13 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 job categories do people searching Compost Operator jobs in Summerville, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Compost Operator jobs in Summerville, SC are:

What cities near Summerville, SC are hiring for Compost Operator jobs?

Cities near Summerville, SC with the most Compost Operator job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator | 1st Shift |Hourly Pay of $22-$25 | Full Benefits | Daily Pay

McGill Environmental Systems

Charleston, SC

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator | 1st Shift | $22-$25/hr | Full Benefits | Daily Pay
Looking for steady work with a company that values safety, teamwork, and the impact of what you do every day?
McGill Environmental Systems is hiring a Heavy Equipment Operator for our facility in Charleston, SC. If you have experience operating Front-End Loaders, Excavators, Trommel Screeners, Horizontal Grinders, Skid Steers, or similar heavy equipment and want a hands-on role with long-term stability, we'd like to hear from you.
Schedule
7:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday
Must be available to work Weekends.
Candidates must be flexible, as occasional Saturdays, overtime, and schedule adjustments may be required to meet business needs.
Top Reasons to Join Our Team
Competitive Pay ($22-$25/hr)
Daily Pay Option
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
401(k) with Company Match
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Paid Time Off
Tuition Reimbursement
Career Advancement Opportunities
Ongoing Training and Development
Stable, Year-Round Employment

The Role
As a Heavy Equipment Operator at McGill, you'll play a critical role in transforming organic waste into high-quality compost, mulch, and soil products that support healthier communities and a more sustainable environment.
You'll operate heavy equipment to move, blend, load, screen, and process materials while ensuring production goals, quality standards, and safety requirements are met. This is a hands-on position for someone who takes pride in operating equipment safely, efficiently, and with attention to detail.
Every bucket you move and every load you process helps turn waste into a valuable resource that supports agriculture, landscaping, and environmental sustainability.
What You'll Do
Safely operate heavy equipment including Front-End Loaders, Excavators, Trommel Screeners, Horizontal Grinders, Skid Steers, Backhoes, Screening Equipment, and other heavy machinery
Load, move, blend, and process organic materials
Perform screening operations using Trommel Screeners and material blending to meet production specifications
Operate Horizontal Grinders to process incoming organic materials when required
Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance checks
Identify and report equipment issues before they become major problems
Transport materials safely throughout the facility
Follow all safety procedures, environmental regulations, and PPE requirements
Support production goals while maintaining product quality standards
Work independently while contributing to a strong team environment

Why Join McGill?
At McGill, we don't just move material. We create products that help rebuild soils, support agriculture, and improve the environment.
For more than 30 years, we've been transforming biodegradable materials into high-quality compost products that make a difference in communities every day.
When you join McGill, you'll work alongside people who:
Put safety first
Take pride in their work
Support one another
Value accountability and teamwork
Understand the importance of doing the job right
The work you do here has a direct and visible impact on the environment.
Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED required
Experience operating Front-End Loaders, Excavators, Trommel Screeners, Horizontal Grinders, Skid Steers, Backhoes, or similar heavy equipment
Experience in composting, recycling, landscaping, construction, agriculture, forestry, land clearing, or similar material-processing operations is a plus
Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment
Willingness to work outdoors and in non-climate-controlled conditions
Reliable transportation to the Charleston, SC facility
Strong commitment to safety and teamwork
Dependable attendance and strong work ethic

Physical Requirements
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, climb, and work on uneven terrain
Ability to climb in and out of heavy equipment throughout the shift
Occasionally lift and move up to 50 pounds
Ability to push, pull, and maneuver materials and equipment as needed
Ability to work around dust, dirt, mud, noise, moving equipment, and strong odors
Ability to wear required PPE and respiratory protection when necessary

What Makes Someone Successful at McGill?
Our best operators are people who:
Show up on time and ready to work
Take pride in operating equipment safely and efficiently
Treat equipment with care and respect
Pay attention to detail
Work independently and stay productive
Support their teammates when needed
Take ownership of their work and responsibilities
Look for opportunities to learn and improve
If you're looking for a stable career with a company that values hard work, safety, and environmental stewardship, you'll fit right in at McGill.
About McGill Environmental Systems
For over 30 years, McGill Environmental Systems has been a leader in compost manufacturing, transforming biodegradable materials into high-quality compost, mulch, and soil products that help restore soils and support sustainable communities.
Driven by our core values of Excellence, Integrity, Accountability, and Collaboration, we are committed to creating a safe, rewarding, and growth-focused workplace where employees can build long-term careers.
Apply Today
Ready for steady hours, strong benefits, and work that makes a difference?
Apply today and join the team that's turning waste into something valuable.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The McGill Environmental Systems Family of Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.