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Compost Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

BTS Bioenergy

Wastewater Operator

Jessup, MD · On-site

$22.25 - $30.75/hr

... compost through smart, sustainable waste solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. At BTS ... The Operator is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of our Maryland Bioenergy ...

Mom's Organic Market

MOM's Team Member

Rockville, MD

$15/hr

... 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 ...

Mom's Organic Market

MOM's Team Member

Rockville, MD · On-site

$15/hr

... 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 ...

Georgetown University

Recycling Laborer

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.87/hr

... compost and paper shredding programs, including lifting and emptying heavy containers up to 50 ... This work involves driving unit vehicles to designated disposal stations, operating bailers ...

STATE OF PLAY

Dishwasher

Washington, DC

$18.40 - $19/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 Washington, DC

Compost Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$16

$26

$38

How much do compost operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for compost operator in Washington, DC is $26.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $30.48 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 Washington, DC? For Compost Operator jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compost Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Compost Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:
Compost Operator jobs near you

Lead Environmental Technician/ Environmental Technician (Upper Marlboro)

Compost Crew

Upper Marlboro, MD • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Overview
Do you have a passion for the environment and sustainability? Are you excited at the prospect of being a key contributor to the growth of a community-focused recycling site? We're hiring a Lead Organics Recycling Associate/Organics Recycling Associate to lead or assist composting operations at our innovative Compost Outposts located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. As Lead Organics Recycling Associate/Organics Recycling Associate, you'll work closely with our team to turn food scraps from our customer base into top-quality, nutrient-rich compost. You'll have the chance to develop your technical, mechanical and environmental expertise. This is a great opportunity for you if you want to build your career in sustainability while you earn competitive pay and enjoy comprehensive benefits. This is a full-time position with hours from 7 am - 4 pm, Mon. - Fri. Starting pay $20 - $25/hr.
Does this describe you?
  • Enthusiasm for the mission of protecting the planet and reducing waste
  • Knowledge of composting principles, science, methods and processes
  • At least 1 year experience in related field such as composting, agriculture or commercial production
  • Task leadership and work direction ability
  • Safety-first orientation
  • Detail-orientation
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Disciplined adherence to instructions and procedures
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
  • U.S-issued driver's license in good standing
  • Clean driving record
  • Ability to obtain DOT medical card & pass drug/alcohol test (company pays for exam & test)
  • High school diploma, GED or equivalent
  • Ability to lift 60 pounds up to 200 times per day
  • Access to reliable transportation - public transportation and rideshare services are not viable options
  • U.S. employment authorization

Other Helpful Background
  • Team leader experience
  • Knowledge/experience with farm equipment, machinery operations and preventative maintenance
  • Maryland Compost Facility Operators certification - if you don't have certification, we'll help you obtain it
  • Experience working outside in all weather conditions
  • Manufacturing team leaders who wish to explore a career in composting are encouraged to apply

Key Responsibilities
  • Manage the composting process by checking key vitals and then adjusting process controls to maintain an optimal environment for our aerobic microbes.
  • Operate and perform basic preventative maintenance on composting machinery
  • Maintain site conditions and records in accordance with State regulatory requirements
  • Perform daily decontamination of food scrap feedstocks from our collections routes
  • Serve as safety role model and follow safety procedures
  • Manage and execute site improvement projects
  • Communicate site conditions and status with supervisors

Compensation and Benefits
  • Starting pay $20 - 25/hr
  • 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:
  • Work typically occurs from 7 am - 4 pm, Mon. - Fri. Work hours may vary based on weather and operational requirements.

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.
EEO Employer
Learn more about Compost Crew at:
https://compostcrew.com
Job Type: Full-time

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