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Entry Level Waste Management Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... waste management for a smarter, more sustainable world. All that we're missing is you. Apply today! About the role Waste Processing Technician I (WPTI) is an entry-level position within the ...

... waste management for a smarter, more sustainable world. All that we're missing is you. Apply today! About the role Waste Processing Technician I (WPTI) is an entry-level position within the ...

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The position focuses on essential cleaning duties and waste management, supporting facility upkeep ... Remove trash and dispose of waste properly Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in ...

... management for a smarter, more sustainable world. All that we're missing is you. Apply today! About the role The Waste Process Technician I (WPT I) is an entry level position responsible to safely ...

... management for a smarter, more sustainable world. All that we're missing is you. Apply today! About the role The Waste Process Technician I (WPT I) is an entry level position responsible to safely ...

... management for a smarter, more sustainable world. All that we're missing is you. Apply today! About the role The Waste Process Technician I (WPT I) is an entry level position responsible to safely ...

... management for a smarter, more sustainable world. All that we're missing is you. Apply today! About the role The Waste Process Technician I (WPT I) is an entry level position responsible to safely ...

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Entry Level Waste Management information

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$25K

$47.8K

$68.5K

How much do entry level waste management jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level waste management in the United States is $47,831.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is experience needed for waste management?

Entry level waste management positions typically do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training is often provided. However, having a basic understanding of safety procedures, physical fitness, and relevant certifications can be beneficial for success in the role.

Is it hard to get hired at waste management?

Entry level waste management jobs typically have moderate competition and often require a high school diploma or equivalent. Hiring processes may include background checks and physical assessments, but many positions are accessible to those with basic skills and a willingness to work outdoors or in a physical environment.

How to get into the waste management industry?

Entry level waste management jobs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and may involve on-the-job training. Relevant skills include physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and basic knowledge of waste handling procedures. Certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone in an entry-level waste management position?

In an entry-level waste management role, your daily tasks often include collecting, sorting, and disposing of waste materials according to company protocols and safety standards. You may also be responsible for operating basic equipment, ensuring that recycling guidelines are followed, and maintaining cleanliness in assigned areas. Teamwork is essential, as you'll frequently collaborate with supervisors and other crew members to complete routes efficiently. Over time, you'll gain exposure to various waste management processes, which can open up opportunities for advancement within the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Waste Management Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Waste Management Worker, you need physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste collection equipment, basic vehicle operation, and adherence to OSHA regulations are commonly required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient, safe waste handling and contribute to a clean, compliant environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Waste Management vs Entry Level Recycling Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Waste ManagementEntry Level Recycling Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, some certifications (e.g., OSHA)High school diploma, environmental awareness certifications
Work EnvironmentWaste facilities, landfills, collection sitesRecycling centers, community outreach events
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal waste departments, private waste companiesEnvironmental organizations, municipal recycling programs

Entry Level Waste Management roles focus on waste collection, disposal, and site operations, often requiring safety certifications. Entry Level Recycling Coordinators primarily handle recycling program promotion, community education, and coordination at recycling centers. Both roles serve environmental sustainability but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

What are entry level waste management jobs?

Entry level waste management jobs involve collecting, sorting, and disposing of waste materials such as trash, recyclables, and hazardous items. Employees in these positions typically work for municipalities, private companies, or recycling centers, and may operate vehicles, use machinery, or perform manual labor. These roles provide valuable experience in environmental services and often offer on-the-job training, making them suitable for individuals new to the industry. Responsibilities may include following safety protocols, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring proper disposal methods are used.

What jobs pay 250 an hour?

Entry level waste management jobs typically do not pay $250 an hour; such high wages are usually associated with specialized roles like environmental consultants, hazardous waste specialists, or senior management positions that require extensive experience, certifications, and advanced skills. These roles often involve complex regulatory knowledge, safety protocols, and sometimes consulting or project management responsibilities.
More about Entry Level Waste Management jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Waste Management jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Waste Management job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Waste Management jobs? The most popular types of Waste Management jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Waste Management jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Waste Management jobs include:
Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Landfill

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Landfill

Waste Management

Fairport, NY • On-site

$19.52 - $29.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Waste Management rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 630 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 72 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator I with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site that prides itself on employee safety? Searching for a company that prioritizes its employees' well-being and understands the importance of family time? If this speaks to you, then WM might be the place for your next career move. 

Stable work and benefits that support you and your loved ones, a schedule that respects work life balance with your safety at the heart of everything we do and support for your future with training and development based on your unique career goals. That's what you get as a Heavy Equipment Operator I at WM - and more. 

About us

WM is North America's leading provider of comprehensive waste management environmental services. We partner with our customers and the communities we serve to manage and reduce waste at each stage from collection to disposal, while recovering valuable resources and creating clean, renewable energy. 

The pay and benefits you'll get as a Heavy Equipment Operator I:

  • Depending on experience

    • Stable hours for your financial stability

      • Access to a stock purchase plan

      • Comprehensive healthcare coverage including dental, vision and prescription coverage.

      • Paid tuition and scholarships for you and your dependents 

      • Company-matched 401(k)

      • Adoption assistance and parent support

These are just a few of our comprehensive benefits for Heavy Equipment Operator I. Whether you are planning on building or expanding your family or looking for the next step in your career - WM is there, helping build the best and total you. 

The hours and location you'll work in as a Heavy Equipment Operator I with WM:

  • Monday - Friday every week
    • 6:30am to 4pm
    • Saturdays as needed
    • We're committed to offering you stable hours for the financial security and work life balance you need.
    • The normal setting for this job is our Landfill in Fairport, NY.

Those are the key details on pay and schedule - now here's more on what you'll be doing as a Heavy Equipment Operator I at WM. 

Each day you'll work at one of our recycling facilities that service over 20 million customers across the USA. As a Heavy Equipment Operator I you'll be responsible for operating heavy equipment like bulldozers, scrapers & front-end loaders - this role is vital to the work we do, so your work will be recognized and valued for the impact it has on our operation. Our heavy equipment operators take their careers to the next level by working on equipment that requires a high level of skill - and determination.  Our waste disposal sites have strict procedures in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all our Landfill employees. 

Here's more of what you'll do:

  • Operates heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures. 
    • Conducts routine equipment inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment; maintains accurate records. 
    • Moves and positions raw materials and finished components with use of material moving equipment.
    • Follow appropriate standard operating procedures as per guidelines for operating and maintaining vehicle. 
    • Performs other duties as assigned. 

What do you need to be considered for the role of Heavy Equipment Operator I?

  • 1 year of experience operating heavy equipment.
    • Be over 18 years of age.
    • Legally eligible to work in the United States
    • Ability to perform physical requirements of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
    • Successfully complete and pass pre-employment drug screen and physical.
    • Preferred Experience: Dozer, loader and excavator

The kind of people who thrive in our teams:

  • Thrive while working independently.
    • Take accountability for adhering to our safety guidelines.
    • Good communicators who are ready to support other colleagues
    • Able to problem solve while independently.

Work environment and physical demands:

Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. 

  • Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity (such as keyboarding, machine operation, etc.) most of the workday.
    • Required to exert physical effort in handling objects less than 30 pounds occasionally.
    • Required to be exposed to physical occupational risks (such as cuts, burns, exposure to toxic chemicals, etc.) rarely. 
    • Required to be exposed to physical environment which involves dirt, odors, noise, weather extremes or similar elements most of the workday. 
    • Normal setting for this job is: shop or field. 

Pay: The expected base pay range for this on-site position is $19.52-29.33. This range represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific salary offered to a successful candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate's relevant experience, education, training, certifications, qualifications, and work location

Benefits:

At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability. In addition, we offer a stock purchase plan, company matching on a 401(k), and more. Employees also receive paid vacation, holidays, and personal days. Please note that benefits may vary by site.

If this sounds like what you've been looking for, then click 'Apply now' to start your tomorrow, today. 

ABOUT WM

WM (WM.com) is North America's leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of post-consumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gas-to-electricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavy-duty natural gas truck fleet in the industry in North America. Healthcare Solutions provides collection and disposal services of regulated medical waste, as well as secure information destruction services, in the U.S., Canada and Western Europe. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.

If this position is to be performed in Los Angeles County, California, please read carefully the information contained here in LA County Addendum. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

For United States: WM is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

For Canada: WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation.

Real ID

In order to travel by air or access federal property, federal law requires individuals have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative.  This position may require the successful candidate to travel by air for business reasons, or service federal property.  Accordingly, successful candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, a REAL ID, or TSA approved alternative.  

What is the value of a WM job? At WM we know that the value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. This is why we are constantly working to make WM a great place to work and grow a career. We Are WM is what defines the perks of being in the WM family - from benefits, to resources and engagement activities. 

We are People First. We are Committed to Your Growth. We Are Investing in You. We are a Family. We are Stable. We are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow. 

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