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Landfill Operations Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Landfill Operations Manager

Joliet, IL · On-site

$84K - $124K/yr

Ensures smooth operation of landfill: ongoing construction, permitting, leachate/gas management ... landfill through inspections and preventive maintenance programs with supervisors/employees.

Landfill Operations Manager

Joliet, IL · On-site

$84K - $124K/yr

Ensures smooth operation of landfill: ongoing construction, permitting, leachate/gas management ... landfill through inspections and preventive maintenance programs with supervisors/employees.

Perform routine system inspections and repairs on the landfill. * Work with Region Engineer and ... Provide assistance in fulfillment of all technical/regulating/operational documentation related to ...

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Landfill Operations Inspector information

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$12

$27

$52

How much do landfill operations inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for landfill operations inspector in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Landfill Operations Inspectors, and how are they typically addressed?

Landfill Operations Inspectors often face challenges such as ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, managing odor and pest control, and monitoring waste segregation. These challenges are typically addressed through regular site inspections, detailed record-keeping, and close collaboration with landfill operators and local environmental agencies. Inspectors also stay updated on regulatory changes and participate in ongoing training to effectively identify and resolve compliance issues. Open communication with site staff and the ability to adapt to evolving regulations are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Landfill Operations Inspector vs Landfill Technician?

AspectLandfill Operations InspectorLandfill Technician
CertificationsEnvironmental or waste management certifications often preferredBasic waste management or safety certifications may be required
Work EnvironmentInspecting landfill sites, ensuring compliance, monitoring operationsOperating equipment, managing waste, maintaining landfill facilities
Job FocusMonitoring, compliance, inspectionsHands-on waste management and equipment operation

While both roles work within landfill sites, the Landfill Operations Inspector primarily focuses on inspections, compliance, and monitoring, whereas the Landfill Technician handles day-to-day waste management and equipment operation. The inspector ensures regulations are followed, while the technician manages waste processing and site maintenance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Landfill Operations Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Landfill Operations Inspector, you need knowledge of environmental regulations, waste management practices, and safety standards, often supported by a relevant degree or experience in environmental science. Familiarity with inspection tools, GPS systems, and regulatory compliance software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure compliance with regulations, promote environmental safety, and help maintain effective landfill operations.

What does a Landfill Operations Inspector do?

A Landfill Operations Inspector is responsible for monitoring and evaluating landfill sites to ensure they comply with environmental regulations and safety standards. Their duties include inspecting waste disposal practices, checking for proper containment and management of hazardous materials, and ensuring compliance with permits. They also document findings, report violations, and may recommend corrective actions to improve site operations. By performing these tasks, they help protect public health and the environment from the potential risks associated with improper waste management.
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What job categories do people searching Landfill Operations Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Landfill Operations Inspector jobs are:
Infographic showing various Landfill Operations Inspector job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 22% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 34% Temporary, and 22% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Landfill Operations Manager

Landfill Operations Manager

Waste Management

Joliet, IL • On-site

$84K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Waste Management rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 607 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 71 rated recycling and waste


Job description


I. Job Summary
Ensures the highest standards of environmental safety and operational excellence by effectively managing the day-to-day operations of the landfill.
II. Essential Duties and Responsibilities
 

  • Ensures smooth operation of landfill: ongoing construction, permitting, leachate/gas management.
  • Minimizes operational costs while maximizing productivity and maintaining safety and environmental compliance.
  • Continually works to reduce turnaround time for trucks in and out of site.
  • Accurately tracks waste volume and weight.
  • Acts as a liaison, where necessary, for community relationships.
  • Actively monitors ongoing permitting issues.
  • Complies with and ensures adherence to WM's Mission to Zero standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient operations.
  • Meets all financial review dates and corporate directed programs in a timely fashion.
  • Oversees personnel needs of the department including selecting, coaching, and training employees and evaluating employee performance. Provides input into termination, compensation, and promotion decisions.
  • Assists in the budget process as required.
  • Ensures the cleanliness and maintenance of the physical property of the landfill through inspections and preventive maintenance programs with supervisors/employees.
  • Conducts and/or attends and contributes to periodic safety meetings to maintain favorable working relationships among employees and promote maximum morale, productivity, and efficiency.
  • Provides training and presentations as needed in a positive and professional manner.
  • Updates and submits required reports in a timely manner.


III. Qualifications 
A. Required Qualifications 
 

  • Bachelor's Degree (accredited), or in lieu of degree
  • High School Diploma or GED (accredited) and four (4) years relevant work experience
  • 7 years relevant work experience (in addition to education requirement).


B. Preferred Qualifications 
IV. Physical Requirements
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. Office: This job primarily operates in a professional office environment and routinely requires the use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copy machines, etc.

Pay: The expected base pay range for this on-site position is $84,700 - $124,096. 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.

In addition, this role is eligible for a 20% AIP bonus
V. Benefits 
At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and Short Term Disability. As well as a Stock Purchase Plan, Company match on 401K, and more! Our employees also receive Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Personal Days. Please note that benefits may vary by site. 

If this sounds like the opportunity that you have been looking for, please click Apply.

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 postconsumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gastoelectricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavyduty 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.

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 TSAapproved alternative.

WM Leaders are a critical part of our People First culture. The proud, caring and resilient members of the WM family are the foundation for our success. We commit to taking care of each other, our customers, our communities and the environment. We are Leaders in Sustainability & Environmental Solutions.
WM is more than just managing waste. We're industry leaders helping people and organizations achieve their sustainability goals, and We Are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow. 

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