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Landfill Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Landmarc Environmental Systems

Operator

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

Operator Who We Are Landmarc Environmental Systems, LLC (Landmarc) was conceived by a few ... landfill construction and service company. Our resources and unbeatable expertise enable us to ...

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Operator

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

Operator Who We Are Landmarc Environmental Systems, LLC (Landmarc) was conceived by a few ... landfill construction and service company. Our resources and unbeatable expertise enable us to ...

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Construction Laborer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

... landfill construction and service company. Our resources and unbeatable expertise enable us to ... This includes preparing construction sites, assisting with various labor tasks, operating hand ...

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All JobsLandfill Operator JobsLandfill Operator Jobs in Iowa

Landfill Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$18

$25

How much do landfill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for landfill operator in Iowa is $18.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a landfill operator?

Landfill operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of landfill sites where waste is disposed of in a controlled manner. They ensure that waste is properly deposited, compacted, and covered to minimize environmental impact and comply with regulations. Their duties often include monitoring equipment, managing records, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Landfill operators play a crucial role in protecting the environment by preventing pollution and managing waste efficiently.

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

AspectLandfill OperatorWaste Management Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, hazardous waste handling certifications
Work EnvironmentLandfill sites, outdoor, heavy machineryWaste collection sites, outdoor, equipment operation
Industry UsageSolid waste disposal, landfill managementWaste collection, recycling, waste processing

Both roles involve outdoor work and safety certifications, but Landfill Operators focus on managing landfill sites and operating heavy machinery, while Waste Management Technicians handle waste collection and recycling processes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit in the waste management industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a landfill operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Landfill Operator, you need knowledge of waste management practices, heavy equipment operation, and compliance with environmental regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with machinery such as bulldozers, compactors, and landfill gas monitoring systems is typically required, and certifications like OSHA safety training can be advantageous. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help ensure safe and efficient operations. These skills are essential to maintain environmental standards, protect public health, and keep landfill sites running smoothly.

What are some common challenges faced by landfill operators and how can they be managed?

Landfill Operators often encounter challenges such as managing heavy equipment in variable weather conditions, adhering to strict environmental regulations, and ensuring personal safety in potentially hazardous environments. To manage these challenges, operators receive thorough safety training, follow established protocols, and work closely with environmental and maintenance teams to address issues promptly. Staying up-to-date with regulatory requirements and participating in regular equipment inspections also help minimize risks and maintain efficient operations.
What are popular job titles related to Landfill Operator jobs in Iowa? For Landfill Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Landfill Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Landfill Operator jobs in Iowa are:
Landfill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Landfill Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,112 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Landfill Gas Plant Operator

Waste Connections

Malvern, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Waste Connections rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 264 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 90 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Waste Connections is looking for a Landfill Gas Plant Opertor to join our team at our Loess Hills Landfill located in Malvern, Iowa.

The Landfill Gas Plant Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting landfill gas collection and processing systems. This position plays a key role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of gas-to-energy equipment, flare systems, compressors, blowers, condensate systems, and related environmental control equipment. The operator will perform inspections, preventative maintenance, data collection, and repairs while maintaining compliance with company safety standards and environmental regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor landfill gas collection and control systems, including wells, piping, blowers, compressors, flares, and gas processing equipment.
  • Conduct routine inspections of plant equipment and landfill gas infrastructure.
  • Collect, analyze, and record operational data such as gas flow rates, methane concentrations, temperatures, pressures, and flare performance.
  • Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on engines, compressors, pumps, valves, electrical systems, and monitoring equipment.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and operational issues to minimize downtime.
  • Monitor SCADA and control systems to ensure optimal plant performance.
  • Respond to alarms, equipment failures, and emergency situations as required.
  • Maintain compliance with federal, state, local, and company environmental regulations.
  • Complete required documentation, inspection reports, maintenance logs, and regulatory records accurately and timely.
  • Coordinate with contractors, vendors, environmental staff, and landfill personnel.
  • Assist with gas wellfield balancing and condensate management activities.
  • Maintain housekeeping standards within the plant and surrounding work areas.
  • Participate in safety meetings, training programs, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Availability for on call days and weekends.

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Technical training in electrical, mechanical, industrial maintenance, power generation, or a related field preferred.
  • Previous experience in landfill gas operations, power generation, industrial plants, wastewater treatment, oil and gas, or heavy industrial environments preferred.
  • Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.
  • Basic computer skills and experience using maintenance management software preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, electrical schematics, and operational procedures.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
  • Must live with 45 minutes of the plant and within 1 hours of the plant on the days you are on call.
  • Availability to respond remotely within 30 minutes when on call.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain.
  • Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and elevated platforms.
  • Ability to work around moving mechanical equipment, noise, dust, and landfill-related environments.
  • Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Work Environment

  • Industrial landfill and gas-to-energy facility environment.
  • Exposure to moving machinery, confined spaces, elevated work areas, and outdoor weather conditions.
  • May require overtime, on-call availability, weekends, evenings, and holiday work as needed.

Preferred Certifications

  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
  • HAZWOPER Certification
  • Electrical or Industrial Maintenance Certification
  • EPA Method 21 Monitoring Experience
  • First Aid/CPR Certification

Success Factors

The ideal candidate is safety-focused, mechanically inclined, dependable, and comfortable working independently in a hands-on industrial environment. They demonstrate strong attention to detail, take pride in maintaining environmental compliance, and possess the ability to troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues efficiently while supporting landfill gas recovery and renewable energy production.

Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.

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