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Landfill Operations Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Butte County

Landfill Maintenance Worker I

Oroville, CA · On-site

$38K - $52K/yr

... management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the ... Operation of light to heavy vehicles, equipment, and machinery. Hazards associated with common ...

Butte County, CA

Landfill Maintenance Worker I

Oroville, CA · On-site

$38K - $52K/yr

... management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the ... Operation of light to heavy vehicles, equipment, and machinery. * Hazards associated with common ...

Waste Management

Operations Manager

Stockton, CA

$75K - $80K/yr

Successful completion of the WM Operations Manager Trainee program IV. Physical Requirements Listed ... landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill ...

Waste Management

Operations Manager

Atwater, CA

$74K - $80K/yr

Successful completion of the WM Operations Manager Trainee program IV. Physical Requirements Listed ... landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill ...

Waste Management

Operations Manager

Atwater, CA

$74K - $80K/yr

Successful completion of the WM Operations Manager Trainee program IV. Physical Requirements Listed ... landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill ...

Waste Management

Operations Manager

Stockton, CA · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Successful completion of the WM Operations Manager Trainee program IV. Physical Requirements Listed ... landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gas-to ...

Waste Management

Operations Manager

Stockton, CA

$75K - $80K/yr

Successful completion of the WM Operations Manager Trainee program IV. Physical Requirements Listed ... landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill ...

Waste Management

Operations Manager

Atwater, CA

$74K - $80K/yr

Successful completion of the WM Operations Manager Trainee program IV. Physical Requirements Listed ... landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill ...

Waste Management

Operations Manager

Atwater, CA · On-site

$74K - $80K/yr

Successful completion of the WM Operations Manager Trainee program IV. Physical Requirements Listed ... landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gas-to ...

Waste Management

Operations Manager

Stockton, CA

$75K - $80K/yr

Successful completion of the WM Operations Manager Trainee program IV. Physical Requirements Listed ... landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill ...

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All JobsLandfill Operations JobsLandfill Operations Manager JobsLandfill Operations Manager Jobs in California

Landfill Operations Manager information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$62.6K

$116.9K

How much do landfill operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for landfill operations manager in California is $62,625.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $76,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a landfill operations manager do?

A Landfill Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of a landfill site to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards. Their responsibilities include supervising staff, managing waste disposal processes, maintaining equipment, and implementing best practices to reduce environmental impact. They also handle budgeting, coordinate with regulatory agencies, and ensure that records and reports are accurate and up to date. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential for this role, as it involves working with diverse teams and stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a landfill operations manager?

To thrive as a Landfill Operations Manager, you need expertise in waste management practices, regulatory compliance, and environmental safety, often supported by a relevant degree or certification in environmental science or engineering. Familiarity with landfill management software, heavy equipment operation, and OSHA/EPA regulations is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and coordinate with regulatory agencies and the public. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring efficient, compliant, and environmentally responsible landfill operations.

What are some common challenges faced by a landfill operations manager, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Landfill Operations Managers often encounter challenges such as regulatory compliance, environmental protection, and optimizing daily operations. Keeping up with ever-changing environmental regulations and ensuring proper waste handling are vital aspects of the role. Effective communication with regulatory bodies, implementing robust safety protocols, and investing in staff training can help address these challenges. Additionally, collaborating closely with engineers, equipment operators, and environmental specialists is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and compliance.

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

AspectLandfill Operations ManagerLandfill Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in waste management or safety preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; training on landfill operations often provided
Work EnvironmentOffice and landfill site supervision, overseeing staff and operationsOn-site work at landfill, performing operational tasks and maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by waste management companies, municipalities, and environmental firmsEmployed by landfill operators, waste disposal companies, and environmental agencies

The Landfill Operations Manager oversees overall landfill activities, staff, and safety protocols, while the Landfill Technician handles day-to-day operational tasks on-site. Both roles are essential in waste management, but the manager focuses on supervision and planning, whereas the technician executes operational duties.

What cities in California are hiring for Landfill Operations Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Landfill Operations Manager job openings:

Landfill Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Landfill Operations Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,625 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Operations Supervisor - Landfill

Landers, CA • On-site

Athens Services
Environmental Consulting Services • 1 - 5K employees

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 91 rated recycling and waste

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Athens Servicesexternal

$70K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Summary
The Operations Supervisor - Landfill oversees the assigned landfill daily operations to ensure the highest standards of safety and operations are followed. Ensures site compliance with all company, county and regulatory agencies. The Operation Supervisor - Landfill is responsible for providing the highest quality of leadership to the sites staff and processes.
Job Description
Essential Job Functions:
  • Oversees the daily operations of landfill facility
  • Resolves customer and site personnel problems according to company policy
  • Inputs required daily information, reviews all site paperwork, inspections and timesheets
  • Work closely with the Landfill Superintendent operations manager on any project designed to improve the site's production, efficiency or safety
  • Encourage, monitor and document all recycling activities on site
  • Ensure that the facility is in compliance with all company policies as well as local & state regulations at all times
  • Be actively involved with hiring, reviewing, promoting and disciplining of site personnel
  • Will help lead continuous effort improvement efforts to maximize production and efficiency at the site without compromising safety of employees or customers
  • Ensure all personnel receive required safety and operational training and attend and facilitate mandatory safety meetings
  • Operates heavy equipment as operational needs require
  • Leads hiring, performance management and discipline
  • Leads safety meetings and ensures training
  • Achieve target compaction density (e.g., 1,200-1,500 lbs/cubic yard depending on waste stream)
  • Meet daily throughput goals (Tons per Day) aligned with budget targets
  • Maintain safety metrics including Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) at or below company targets
  • Minimize equipment downtime and improve uptime efficiency
  • Establish and monitor productivity standards, including labor hours and equipment utilization.
  • Control operating costs and support budget goals.
  • Improve processes to enhance efficiency and environmental performance.
  • Monitor landfill systems including leachate, gas collection, stormwater, and erosion controls.
  • Minimize environmental impacts including odor, dust, and litter.
  • Maintain operational and regulatory records including inspections, safety reports, and tonnage data.
  • Assist with budget planning and reporting requirements.
  • Support audits, inspections, and regulatory coordination.
  • Ensure proper maintenance and availability of heavy equipment.
  • Coordinate with maintenance teams to maintain operational readiness.
  • Monitor site conditions and infrastructure performance.
  • Ensuring surveys are completed and reviewed with OPS manager
  • Coordinate with engineering and environmental teams to ensure operations align with permitted design criteria

Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum five years of progressively responsible experience in landfill or post-collection operations, including experience leading employees and overseeing daily operations. Landfill-specific experience strongly preferred.
  • Advanced working knowledge of all landfill operations including unloading of trash, compaction, and basic equipment background
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  • Valid Class "A" license
  • Strong organizational, problem solving and communication skills
  • Basic First Aid/CPR and 8 40-hour Hazwopper Certification within 6 months
  • Ability to obtain SWANA MOLO certification within 6 months OR Must obtain and maintain SWANA MOLO (Manager of Landfill Operations) certification for duration of employment
  • Familiar with MS office products Excel, Outlook, and Word.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, site plans, grading plans, and landfill sequencing plans
  • Utilize design drawings in conjunction with survey data to ensure proper waste placement, slope compliance, and airspace optimization

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Bilingual English / Spanish
  • Knowledgeable in DOT and OSHA regulations
  • Familiar with MS office products Excel, Outlook, and Word.
  • Proficient in MS office.

Physical/Environmental Demands:
  • Physical:
    • Standing, walking, seeing, hearing, & smelling continuously
    • Problem solving, oral communication, analytical ability, concentration, exposure to heavy machinery, & eye/hand coordination, & handling continuously
    • Bending, reaching, stretching, crouching, & lifting ≤ 50 Lbs. continuously
    • Exposure to unprotected heights occasionally
  • Environmental:
    • Exposure to dust, smoke, fumes, odors, grease, oil, chemicals, wet slippery surfaces, hot/cold conditions, & noise continuously
    • Works inside and outside

Salary: $70,304 - $92,335/year
Position will be expected to visit other Landfills in San Bernardino County.
Benefits:
  • Competitive wages
  • Comprehensive benefit package Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401K
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time
  • Career plan
  • Recognition programs
  • Professional development learning
  • An exceptional work environment

Athens will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance and any other applicable state, federal or local laws. EEO/M/F/disability/veteran
Benefits:
  • Competitive wages
  • Comprehensive benefit package Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401K
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time
  • Career plan
  • Recognition programs
  • Professional development learning
  • An exceptional work environment

Athens will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance and any other applicable state, federal or local laws. EEO/M/F/disability/veteran

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