1

Compost Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Always operate equipment with all safeguards in place and in good operating condition; observe the ... Clean compost floors to maintain all areas safe and clean. * Maintain housekeeping and sanitation ...

Always operate equipment with all safeguards in place and in good operating condition; observe the ... Clean compost floors to maintain all areas safe and clean. * Maintain housekeeping and sanitation ...

Be Seen First

Northern Recycling Heavy Equipment Operator We have immediate openings for full time Heavy ... compost, mulch, and biomass fuel.

Loader Operator

Missouri City, TX · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

... operators. The successful candidate will operate and minimally maintain front loaders and ... Loading of mulches, soils, compost, sands and gravels into trucks and customer vehicles. * Ensure ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

MO · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

By operating our equipment with precision and care, you'll contribute to the continuous production of rich compost that blends with our mulch and topsoil, enriching the earth and supporting our ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Belton, MO · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

By operating our equipment with precision and care, you'll contribute to the continuous production of rich compost that blends with our mulch and topsoil, enriching the earth and supporting our ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

Compost Operator information

See salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do compost operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for compost operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 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.

More about Compost Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Compost Operator jobs? Cities with the most Compost Operator job openings:
What states have the most Compost Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Compost Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Compost Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Temporary, and 75% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Landfill Equipment Operator

Landfill Equipment Operator

City of High Point

High Point, NC

$20.89 - $26.77/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


City Of High Point rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 642 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Compensation Range

$20.89 - $26.77

Please note: This job opening may close earlier than the stated date, due to high candidate volume. If interested, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Who We Are:

At the City of High Point, we celebrate the creator in everyone. Building on our rich cultural history steeped in industrialism and innovation, our employees seek not only to transform themselves, but the world around us. We are collaborators, we are makers, we are visionaries.
We invite you to explore the many opportunities to serve our community, by sharing your talents, skills, and expertise. You'll join a diverse team of over 1300 individuals dedicated not just to making a career, but a difference; because what we create in High Point, changes the world!

Our Core Values:

  • Integrity: Saying what we mean and consistently doing what we say with no desire other than the good of the citizens we serve. It means standing up for beliefs.

  • Responsibility: A continual process that emphasizes a high level of personal accountability by each member of the organization.

  • Partnership: Adding competitive value and quality to the services provided to our residents, businesses, and visitors through responsible fiscal stewardship, increased innovation, greater use of technology, and expanded civic, neighborhood and regional partnerships.

What We Offer:
The City of High Point offers a competitive salary commensurate with education and experience. We also offer generous benefit package for full-time employees which include but are not limited to:

  • A guaranteed life-long monthly pension, once vested after 5 years of service

  • 401K and 457B Retirement Plans

  • PTO earned within first year

  • 12 Paid Holidays per year

  • Tuition Reimbursement Plan

  • Competitive medical, dental, and vision plans effective day one

What You'll Do:

The City of High Point is seeking a dependable and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to support daily operations at the Kersey Valley landfill and Ingleside Compost facility. This hands-on role involves operating a variety of heavy machinery to move solid waste and compost materials, maintain haul roads and ditches, and support site upkeep.
Duties include driving dump trucks, loaders, dozers, compactors, and other large equipment to move, level, and compact materials. The position also includes basic equipment maintenance, site cleanup such as collecting windblown debris, and occasional light computer work at the scale house. Operators assist with seasonal tasks like mowing, seeding, and planting, and may be called upon to support other departments during severe weather or emergency events.
Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions and requires attention to safety, teamwork, and the ability to follow operational guidelines. If you take pride in operating heavy equipment and supporting critical public services, this may be the right fit for you.

Essential Tasks & Responsibilities:

  • Operates foot-clutch truck-tractor with lowboy trailer to transport equipment between locations.
  • Operates tanker truck to pump leachate at various job site locations; moves pumps, hoses, and related equipment as needed.
  • Operates Trash-Master compactor to push, level, and compact waste and apply cover dirt at the landfill.
  • Operates front-end loader at both the landfill and compost facility.
  • Operates heavy earth-moving equipment including bulldozers, flushers, and other machinery at the landfill and Ingleside Compost Facility (ICF).
  • Performs basic equipment maintenance, including greasing, servicing, and minor repairs or adjustments.
  • Operates tandem dump truck to haul dirt for landfill cover or to transport Ingleside rejects.
  • Operates backhoe and motor grader for construction and maintenance of haul roads and drainage ditches.
  • Performs grounds maintenance tasks such as mowing grass, sowing grass seed, and planting trees.
  • Installs and removes temporary perimeter fencing as needed.
  • Walks the landfill perimeter to collect windblown trash and debris.
  • Provides coverage at the scale house and assists with basic computer-related tasks.
  • Follows all OSHA and City safety standards and policies; ensures work aligns with the NC DEQ-approved operations plan for the facility.
  • Assists other Public Services departments during inclement weather, storm events, or declared emergencies.
  • Cross-train with all equipment necessary for daily operations.

Qualifications:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Selected candidate MUST have the ability to obtain a North Carolina CDL within 1 year of hire
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent
  • Must be 21 years of age
  • Some experience with heavy equipment
  • Ability to work extra hours as needed to meet facility operational needs

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Possess a valid NC Commercial (CDL) driver's license
  • Some experience as a Mechanic
  • English and Spanish Language skills

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Hearing/Speaking - Required to express and receive information through spoken word when communicating with co-workers, citizens, and applicants.
Visual Abilities - Vision is required for this position:
Acuity, far - Clear vision at 20 feet or more; necessary for observing employment tests, driving, or addressing an audience.
Acuity, near - Clear vision at 20 inches or less; needed for reading business documents.
Depth perception - Ability to see in three dimensions and judge distance and space relationships.
Field of Vision - Must be able to see a wide area up, down, and side-to-side while focused on a single point.
Accommodation - Ability to adjust focus quickly; important for work at varying distances.

Physical Strength - Physical demands typically associated with this position include:
Medium to Heavy Work:

  • Exerting up to 20 pounds when using groundskeeping tools
  • Exerting 20 to 50 pounds regularly
  • Exerting up to 100 pounds occasionally when operating front-end loader, truck-tractor with lowboy trailer, tanker, trash-master compactor, earth-moving pans, bulldozer, flusher, tandem-axle dump truck, backhoe, and motor grader
    Periods of sedentary work while operating equipment; also includes walking, standing, and bending
  • Reaching - Extending arms or hands in any direction
  • Handling - Seizing, holding, grasping, turning, or working with hands
  • Fingering - Using fingers for pinching or picking tasks, rather than full-hand actions

Mental Activity/Requirements
Reasoning
Ability to apply logical thinking and knowledge of public personnel and employment laws to work tasks; must comprehend, respond promptly, and exercise sound judgment.
Mathematics Ability

  • Must apply arithmetic skills to count and ensure proper load distribution across landfill areas.
Language Ability
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak English fluently.

Environmental Conditions
Physical Surroundings
Work is performed outdoors; employee is exposed to extreme hot and cold temperatures.

Hazards
Exposure to weather elements including rain, snow, sleet, wind, and sun; contact with trash, garbage, compost, yard waste, dirt, rodents, debris, and insects; work includes confined spaces beneath equipment and is subject to OSHA's bloodborne pathogen standards.

Machinery/Tools/Work Aids/Other Equipment
Equipment includes truck-tractor with lowboy trailer, tanker, trash-master compactor, front-end loader, bulldozer, flusher, tandem-axle dump truck, backhoe, motor grader, farm tractors, pumps, hoses, grass mowers, weed-eaters, pruning tools, fencing materials, and other tools associated with landfill operations.

The work location of this job will be 3001 Ingleside Dr High Point, North Carolina.

Our Commitments
The City of High Point is dedicated to fostering a work environment that values individuals from all backgrounds and seeks to attract and retain the most qualified partners in service to the citizens of High Point. As an at-will employer, the City allows employees to terminate their employment, or be terminated at any time, with or without cause, as long as it is not prohibited by law.

The City of High Point is committed to classifying and compensating its employees fairly for the work they do, weighing both the internal capabilities and the external market. While the job description is not intended to and does not create a contract of employment, we are excited to use this "living document" as a guide for managing performance and positions to ensure job descriptions are reflective of the current work required by the incumbent or expected by any candidate to whom an offer of employment is extended.

The City of High Point is committed to providing a safe, comfortable working environment for all employees. To that end, we are proud to comply with all Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, as well as make reasonable accommodations to candidates and employees as we are able in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Candidates selected for employment must undergo (a.) a drug screening, in accordance with the City's drug and alcohol policy and (b.) a background screening to determine whether there is any current, pending, or previous charge, conviction or other infraction deemed incompatible with service in the capacity for which the candidate is being hired. In lieu of or in addition to background screening, candidates selected for employment in a position that requires working with children in any capacity must be fingerprinted and undergo a criminal history record check conducted by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Certain positions are considered so critical to the health and safety of others that a candidate cannot be placed in any such position without passing a pre-placement physical exam. The City offers employment to successful candidates conditioned upon the City's receipt of satisfactory results from all required screenings, checks, and exams, as applicable.