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Composting Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Grounds Manager

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$90K/yr

Manage event composting programs and support expansion of composting services across campus. * Provide enhanced seasonal and summer waste management support, including residence hall turnover and ...

Mechanic

Upper Marlboro, MD ยท On-site

$52K - $72K/yr

Maryland Environmental Service has an opening for a Mechanic at the Prince George's County Organics Composting Facility (OCF) located in Upper Marlboro, MD. This position performs installation ...

Cook-Line -BOH STAFF

Annapolis, MD

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Is knowledgeable of all composting and recycling procedures and adheres to process including oil recycling program and storage of sameAttends all scheduled employee meetings and brings suggestions ...

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Composting information

See Washington, DC salary details

$56.6K

$112K

$183.5K

How much do composting jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for composting in Washington, DC is $111,962.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $134,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you make money composting?

Composting as a job can generate income through services like waste collection, consulting, or operating composting facilities. Earnings depend on the scale of the operation, location, and expertise, with some composters earning a full-time income or supplementing other environmental work. Developing skills in waste management and understanding local regulations can improve earning potential.

What is the highest paying ecology job?

In ecology-related fields, senior roles such as ecological consultants, environmental managers, and conservation directors tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized skills in environmental assessment, project management, or policy development.

What is a Composting job?

A composting job involves managing organic waste to create nutrient-rich compost for agricultural, landscaping, or environmental purposes. Responsibilities may include collecting and processing organic materials, monitoring compost piles for proper decomposition, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Workers may operate machinery, conduct quality checks, and educate the public or businesses on composting practices. This role is essential for reducing waste, improving soil health, and promoting sustainable waste management.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in composting operations?

In a composting role, your daily responsibilities may include collecting and sorting organic waste, monitoring compost piles for proper moisture and temperature, and regularly turning or aerating the material to ensure optimal decomposition. You might also be responsible for recording process data, performing quality checks on finished compost, and maintaining equipment or cleanliness of the composting area. This position often involves collaboration with waste management teams, educational outreach staff, or agricultural personnel, depending on the employer. Attention to detail and following proper safety protocols are essential to ensure high-quality results and compliance with environmental regulations.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

In 2030, traditional waste management roles such as manual composting labor may decline due to automation and advanced composting technologies. Jobs focused on manual sorting and basic waste collection could decrease as robotics and AI systems become more prevalent in environmental sustainability efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Composting position, and why are they important?

To thrive in composting roles, candidates need knowledge of organic waste management, soil science, and safe handling of biodegradable materials, often supported by experience or certifications in environmental science or agriculture. Familiarity with composting systems, moisture and temperature monitoring tools, and, in some cases, industrial composting machinery is important. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to sustainability are valuable soft skills for excelling in this position. These competencies ensure efficient and safe composting operations, contributing to environmental goals and effective waste management.

What is a compost job?

A composting job involves managing the process of turning organic waste into compost, which can be used as fertilizer. Workers may operate equipment, monitor temperature and moisture levels, and ensure proper decomposition, often working outdoors or in compost facilities. Basic knowledge of waste management and environmental practices is helpful for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Composting jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Composting jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Composting job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $111,962 per year, or $53.8 per hour.
Lead Environmental Technician/ Environmental Technician (Upper Marlboro)

Lead Environmental Technician/ Environmental Technician (Upper Marlboro)

Compost Crew

Upper Marlboro, MD โ€ข On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 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