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Landfill Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ntmw

Heavy Equipment Operator - Landfill

Melissa, TX · On-site

The position is responsible for the operation of a specific area which includes operating various pieces of heavy equipment in the landfill. Works under general supervision. Job Responsibilities

Putnam County, FL BOCC

Landfill Operator

Palatka, FL · On-site

$37K/yr

Operates heavy equipment in maintaining the County landfill. * Operates mobile hydraulically-operated excavation equipment such as dozer, compactor, etc. * Operates bulldozers, graders, pay loaders ...

HEICHEL PLUMBING INC

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Ocoee, FL · On-site

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

Description Heavy Equipment Operators are responsible for safely operating various heavy equipment ... Must be able to complete training on other landfill equipment as necessary. * Must be dependable, a ...

Heichel Plumbing, Inc.

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Ocoee, FL · On-site

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

Heavy Equipment Operators are responsible for safely operating various heavy equipment that perform ... Must be able to complete training on other landfill equipment as necessary. * Must be dependable, a ...

Waste Connections Inc

$22/hr

Waste Connections is looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator to join the team at JED Landfill in Saint Cloud, Florida . Previous landfill or waste experience would be a huge plus. Monday - Friday 6 ...

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Landfill Equipment Operator information

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How much do landfill equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for landfill equipment 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 does a landfill equipment operator do?

A Landfill Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery such as bulldozers, compactors, loaders, and excavators at landfill sites. Their main duties include spreading and compacting waste, covering refuse with soil, maintaining site safety, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. They also help with routine equipment maintenance and may assist in monitoring site conditions to prevent hazards. This role is essential for the efficient and safe management of solid waste at landfill facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a landfill equipment operator?

To thrive as a Landfill Equipment Operator, you need experience operating heavy machinery such as bulldozers, compactors, and loaders, along with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with landfill management systems, GPS technology, and safety protocols is typically required, and some positions may ask for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or related certifications. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and a commitment to safety are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient, compliant, and environmentally responsible landfill operations.

What are some common challenges faced by landfill equipment operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Landfill Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating uneven or unstable terrain, and maintaining safety standards around heavy machinery. Staying vigilant, following safety protocols, and participating in ongoing training can help mitigate these risks. Additionally, effective communication with team members and regular equipment inspections are essential to ensure smooth operations and a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Landfill Equipment Operator vs Waste Management Technician?

AspectLandfill Equipment OperatorWaste Management Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation licensesHazardous waste handling, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentLandfill sites, outdoor, heavy machineryWaste collection sites, indoor/outdoor, inspection tasks
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal waste departments, private landfill companiesWaste collection companies, environmental services

While both roles involve waste management, Landfill Equipment Operators focus on operating heavy machinery at landfills, whereas Waste Management Technicians handle waste collection, inspection, and hazardous waste procedures. The roles often overlap in safety training and work environments but differ in daily tasks and certifications required.

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What states have the most Landfill Equipment Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Landfill Equipment Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Landfill Equipment Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Landfill Equipment Operator jobs are:

Landfill Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Landfill Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Landfill Heavy Equipment Operator II

City of St Joseph, Missouri

Saint Joseph, MO • On-site

$21.42/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operates a variety of heavy equipment including scrapers, dozers, motor graders, backhoes, loaders, articulated haul trucks, and compactors to maintain proper waste disposal and environmental compliance.

  • Performs routine maintenance and cleaning of equipment, including fluid checks, greasing, and inspections, and assists with overhaul maintenance when necessary.

  • Supports landfill operations by assisting with waste compaction, waste placement, project construction, storm water management, and moving fences or other materials as needed.

Job description

JOB TITLE: Landfill Heavy Equipment Operator II
DEPARTMENT: Public Works & Transportation
DIVISION: Landfill
SALARY: $45,897.00 Yearly
CLOSING DATE: July 31, 2025
Job Summary/Scope
Operates and maintains heavy equipment to maintain proper sanitary solid waste disposal and environmental compliance with local, state, and federal agencies for citizens of St. Joseph. No supervisory or budgetary responsibilities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operates a variety of equipment including, but not limited to dual engine scrapers, dozers, motor graders, backhoes, loaders, articulated haul trucks, compactors, and various other machines.
  • Operates dual engine scrapers for excavating areas and stockpiling soil.
  • Operates landfill compactor to compact waste areas designated and approved by state.
  • Operates dozer to assist waste placement, project construction, storm water best management practice repairs (terraces, lets down, rills, and storm water detention devices).
  • Operates loader to move fences and for special lifting, as well as to load dump truck and scraper, as necessary.
  • Assists mechanic with overhaul maintenance when assigned machine is inoperable.
  • Cleans and performs general maintenance (daily fluid level checks, greasing, inspection, and checking air filter) to assigned equipment.

Other Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operates all equipment in categories of Light Equipment Operator, Equipment Operator 2, and Equipment Operator 3.
  • Occasionally performs as a laborer when required.
  • Performs all other related duties as assigned.

Employee Behavior and Conduct
City employees shall conduct themselves in a professional manner and shall exhibit and extend such professional conduct appropriate for the circumstances to those with whom they come into contact both internally and externally during the performance of their duties. Examples of professional conduct include, but are not limited to, being communicative, informative, fair, honest, and respectful.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Skills in the safe operation of heavy equipment.
  • Knowledge of landfill operations, rules and regulations.
  • Basic knowledge of environmental rules and best management practices.
  • Ability to read surveyor's marks and build area or projects accordingly.
  • Good hand/eye and hand/foot coordination.
  • Ability to follow instructions and perform tasks with minimum supervision.
  • A Valid State of Missouri Class A CDL with Tanker and Trailer endorsements required or ability to obtain.
  • Missouri Solid Waste Technician Certification or ability to obtain within 6 months.
  • Three to five years of experience in related field required.

Materials and Equipment Directly Used
Operates a variety of equipment, from light to heavy; including motor grader, dozers, scrapers, compactor, tractors, mowers, sheepsfoot compactors and other heavy equipment used in the operation of the landfill.
Working Environment/Physical Requirements
Exposure to extreme weather conditions. Must be able to sit for long periods of time while operating heavy equipment. Must be able to operate equipment with dexterity. Some overnight or day travel may be required for business purposes. Vacation and other leave scheduling shall be requested of and approved by the appropriate supervisor.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent required.
All applicants must pass a drug screening and criminal background check prior to employment.
Any job offer made by the City is contingent upon the applicant passing the drug screening and background check.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The City is a governmental entity subject to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973,
which requires that otherwise qualified handicapped individuals be protected from discrimination.

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