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Compost Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Return

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations. The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment ...

Return

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations. The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment ...

CookUnity

Sustainability Operator - LA

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$129K - $148K/yr

This role supports the operational execution of recycling, compost, waste audits, and donation ... The Sustainability Operator is responsible for carrying out daily walkthroughs, completing ...

CookUnity

Sustainability Operator - LA

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

This role supports the operational execution of recycling, compost, waste audits, and donation ... The Sustainability Operator is responsible for carrying out daily walkthroughs, completing waste ...

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Compost Operator information

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How much do compost operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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 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.
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Compost Operator jobs near you
Heavy Equipment Operations Supervisor - Compost | Req # 3885

Heavy Equipment Operations Supervisor - Compost | Req # 3885

Denali Water Solutions LLC

Advance, NC

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Denali Water Solutions rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 75 rated recycling and waste

Job description

About Company:

About Denali

Denali is the leading organic recycling company on a mission to unlock the power of unused food and organics, transforming them into resources to feed, fuel and replenish the earth. Our work is essential to keeping water clean, reducing the need for new landfill capacity, building soil fertility, helping farmers be more resilient, and reducing society’s reliance on fossil fuels. Denali provides meaningful and measurable change for any business that handles food, creating value with our scalable solutions across the nation. Our services and products touch thousands of acres and businesses, millions of tons of organic material, and nearly every person who purchases and consumes food in the U.S. Apply to join our team today!

Heavy Equipment Operations Supervisor – Compost & Mulch

Location: Advance, NC
Full-Time / Salary

Position Summary

The Heavy Equipment Operations Supervisor – Compost & Mulch is responsible for supervising activities related to receiving, handling, processing, composting, and selling bulk organic materials as part of the facility operations leadership team. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong yard management experience, heavy equipment operating expertise, and the ability to lead by example in a fast-paced outdoor production environment. The Heavy Equipment Operations Supervisor – Compost & Mulch oversees equipment operators to ensure safe and efficient day-to-day operations in compliance with all safety, environmental, and other relevant policies, procedures, requirements, and standards. The supervisor is expected to operate heavy equipment as needed to support production goals, train and develop operators, and maintain efficient material flow throughout the facility. They work closely with the Facility Manager and other members of the facility leadership team to drive continuous improvement, deliver high-quality products to customers, and meet budget objectives.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop a workplace culture in line with Denali’s four values: Care For Our Future, Climb Higher, Dig Deeper, and Stand Together.
  • Understand, communicate, enforce, and adhere to safe work practices and all applicable safety and environmental regulations, policies, procedures, and standards.
  • Ensure efficient, safe operation of equipment, including but not limited to wheel loaders, excavators, dozers, grinders, screens, coloring, and mixing equipment. Work with operators to identify and remove unsafe work conditions.
  • Collaborate with maintenance team and enforce daily equipment housekeeping to minimize downtime and maximize productive equipment utilization. Assist with preventative maintenance and minor repairs of equipment.
  • Implement and maintain asset management practices to track equipment performance and utilization.
  • Ensure composting operations are completed in compliance with all regulatory requirements. Maintain composting data records, including temperatures, product testing, windrow/pile age, etc.
  • Work closely with other members of the facility leadership team to ensure product is ready for bagging and bulk sales. Support bag production schedules and communicate effectively with sales staff to understand bulk demand.
  • Contribute to planning and ensure compliance with site plans for material flow, including pile content identification, site layout and organization, and equipment and material movement.
  • Manage inbound materials, determine whether new materials are acceptable, and ensure materials are tipped in the correct locations.
  • Ensure facility is maintained to support operations, including by managing roads and material pile construction to ensure proper stormwater flow.
  • Complete post-incident reviews and documentation for all injuries, accidents, and incidents. Work with the Facility Manager to implement necessary coaching and/or retraining.
  • Ensure adequate staffing to achieve operational objectives. Communicate with frontline employees daily to establish expectations. Provide feedback on performance goals, explain daily operating plans, and enforce safety standards.
  • Utilize daily and weekly operating reports to analyze trends, identify bottlenecks, and drive operational improvements. Identify and implement process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and output.
  • Provide hands-on leadership by operating heavy equipment as needed to support daily production and staffing requirements.
  • Manage day-to-day yard operations, including equipment utilization, traffic flow, material placement, and overall site organization.
  • Train, coach, and mentor equipment operators on safe operating practices, productivity expectations, and equipment care.
  • Monitor yard activities to ensure efficient movement of materials and equipment while maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Communicate effectively with operators, maintenance personnel, leadership, and other departments to coordinate operational priorities and resolve issues.
  • Lead by example through active participation in operational activities and a visible presence in the yard.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • 2+ years of supervisory experience
  • Experience with operating and maintaining heavy equipment
  • Experience managing yard operations, material flow, and equipment utilization
  • Proven leadership experience managing and developing teams
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience supervising heavy equipment operators in a composting, mulch, aggregate, recycling, landscaping, construction, or similar outdoor production environment
  • 3+ years in Composting, Operations Management, Agriculture, Industrial Engineering, or related discipline
  • Certified Compost Operations Manager (CCOM) or Certified Composting Professional (CCM) certification
  • Experience with asset/equipment management systems
  • Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook and Excel
  • Bilingual fluency (English & Spanish) is a plus

Core Competencies & Skills

  • Strong leadership and team development skills
  • Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and manage time effectively
  • Ability to troubleshoot equipment performance issues quickly and effectively
  • Skilled in workflow planning, shift coordination, and labor allocation
  • Ability to analyze operational reports and implement data-driven improvements
  • Strong organizational and communication skills
  • Strong yard management and material flow coordination skills
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to lead by example and motivate teams in a hands-on operational environment
  • Advanced heavy equipment operating knowledge and experience
  • Strong decision-making skills in fast-paced production environments

Work Environment

  • Manufacturing and industrial production setting
  • Exposure to moving machinery, forklifts, and industrial equipment
  • May require extended periods of sitting, standing, and walking

What We Offer

  • Mission-driven work in a rapidly growing sustainability company
  • Opportunities for professional growth and learning
  • Collaborative, values-driven team culture
  • Competitive salary and benefits

Why You’ll Love Working at Denali- Benefits & Perks

At Denali, the work we do begins and ends with you – our employees. That's why we strive to ELEVATE you to be your best, both at work and at home. Our benefits aren’t just about compensation; they’re part of a broader commitment to helping you thrive in all aspects of life. Here’s how we live out our values every day:

  • E – Employee: At Denali, we believe in offering competitive compensation packages that include not only great benefits but also a strong focus on safety, flexibility, and rewards and recognition. You are the backbone of our success, and we make sure you’re valued every step of the way.
  • L – Learning: We’re committed to your growth and development. Our Ascend Employee Development Program and access to over 6,000 professional courses via our Learning Management System empower you to climb higher in your career – all at no cost to you.
  • E – Environment: Our employees deserve a clean Earth. We’re dedicated to doing our part in keeping waste out of landfills, so you can be proud of the work we do together to make a positive environmental impact.
  • V – Valued: At Denali, we take pride in creating a culture of care. With resources that support your well-being, volunteerism opportunities, and a commitment to safe working conditions and inclusivity, you’ll always feel like you belong here.
  • A – Advancement: We believe in succession planning and providing opportunities for advancement. We want you to grow, and we’ll be right there with you, supporting your career every step of the way.
  • T – Together: We’re stronger when we work together. At Denali, you’ll have opportunities to give and receive support not just within the workplace, but within our broader community. Our team is united, and we celebrate the value of working and succeeding as one.
  • E – Employees: You are the heart of Denali. We believe our employees deserve the very best. This is why we offer an array of benefits that support your overall well-being, from health coverage to work-life balance, because when you succeed, we all succeed.

Our Benefits Package Includes:

  • Comprehensive Medical: Our self-insured medical plans are designed with your health in mind, offering competitive options including copay and HSA plans so you can choose what best suit your health needs.
  • Dental & Vision: Keep your smile bright and your vision clear with full coverage for you and your family.
  • Generous 401(k) Match: We’re here for your long-term future – we offer a generous 401(k) match of up to 4%, helping you build the foundation for tomorrow.
  • Company-Paid Disability & Life Insurance: We’ve got you covered with company-paid Long-Term and Short-Term Disability, as well as AD&D and Life Insurance, giving you peace of mind knowing you’re protected.
  • Voluntary Life for Employees & Family: Customize additional coverage for you and your loved ones with our voluntary life insurance options.
  • Health Savings Plan: Save on medical expenses with a Health Savings Plan designed for your needs.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & Sick Time: We value your well-being. Take time for yourself, your family, and personal matters with generous PTO and Sick Time, including family leave.
  • 9 Paid Holidays: Enjoy a well-rounded work-life balance with 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Paid Weekly: We believe in rewarding hard work consistently, which is why we offer weekly pay so you can stay on top of your financial goals.
  • Professional Development: Ascend in your career with free access to thousands of courses that allow you to grow and develop professionally.
  • Employee Assistance Program: Life can be challenging at times, and we’re here to support you with our confidential Employee Assistance Program that offers counseling and resources for a variety of personal and professional needs.
  • Wellness Program: At Denali, we believe that well-being goes beyond health coverage. Our Wellness Program offers resources to keep you mentally, physically, and emotionally balanced as you climb higher in both life and career.

We want you to feel valued, supported, and equipped for success – because when you thrive, we all thrive. So, come for benefits. Stay for the culture. We can’t wait to see you reach new heights with us at Denali.

Apply to join our team today!

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy: It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities for all employees. Accordingly, the Company will not engage in any form of employment discrimination based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. The Company hereby affirms its desire to maintain a work environment for all employees that is free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination.


Compensation details: 70000-80000 Yearly Salary


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