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Landfill Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Rumpke of Kentucky, Inc.

Landfill Laborer

Butler, KY · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... A Landfill Laborer is responsible for general upkeep and maintenance of the facility grounds.

Rumpke

Landfill Laborer

Butler, KY · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... A Landfill Laborer is responsible for general upkeep and maintenance of the facility grounds.

Rumpke

Landfill Laborer

Irvine, KY · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... A Landfill Laborer is responsible for general upkeep and maintenance of the facility grounds.

H. T. PROF Group

$90 - $130/hr

Experience with environmental regulations and permitting procedures preferred; an Industrial Class K Wastewater License and Certified Landfill Operator license, or the ability to obtain them, are ...

Republic Services

Landfill Laborer

Stanford, KY · On-site

... or landfill. Responsibilities may include such things as yard clean-up, fueling vehicles and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Landfill Laborer

Stanford, KY

... or landfill. Responsibilities may include such things as yard clean-up, fueling vehicles and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

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Landfill Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$12

$16

$23

How much do landfill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for landfill operator in Kentucky is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $18.17 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Landfill Operator jobs in Kentucky?

For Landfill Operator jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Landfill Operator jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Landfill Operator jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Landfill Operator job openings:

Landfill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Landfill Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,242 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Landfill Laborer

Rumpke of Kentucky, Inc.

Butler, KY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste and recycling industry. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional waste and recycling solutions to our customers and communities through a commitment to safety, service, the environment and the growth of our people.

When you join Rumpke, you’ll be part of a team providing essential services to millions of residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. You will enjoy competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, matching 401(k), life insurance, paid vacation, and more.

This is your opportunity to make a difference for you and your family. Come join our team!

A Landfill Laborer is responsible for general upkeep and maintenance of the facility grounds. Landfill Laborers may also perform custodial duties in the offices, maintenance shops, etc. This position may also assist in various lines of business.

Responsibilities of Position:

  • Perform facility grounds upkeep including but not limited to mowing, trimming, picking up paper/trash from facility grounds and surrounding areas
  • Build and repair fences
  • Maintain the odor control system as needed
  • Place straw bales in ditches and on side of hills
  • Assist at the yard boxes, truck wash and wheel wash as necessary
  • Wash equipment using a pressure washer
  • Dig tracks as necessary
  • Assist with equipment services as necessary
  • Assist with applying Alternate Daily Cover (ADC) when necessary
  • Assist with general housekeeping of maintenance shops and offices
  • Operate the skid steer, sweeper, flush trucks, and fuel trucks as needed
  • Direct traffic on or around landfill
  • Professionally interact with internal and external customers
  • Build, repair and install erosion control such as silt fence and straw bales
  • Perform duties in a safe manner in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations and company policies
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibility:

  • This position will not manage employees

Skills & Abilities Needed for Position:

  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Self-starter, strong work ethic, and ability to work with minimal supervision
  • Good verbal communication skills to be able to communicate effectively and professionally with internal and external customers
  • Must be able to understand the English language well enough to communicate, understand, and respond to questions, directions, traffic signs, signals, and safety training
  • Safety-focused mindset

Experience & Knowledge Needed for Position:

  • Experience working with various hand tools and equipment is preferred

Physical Requirements in a Regular Workday:

  • Continuously lifting/carrying a max of 10 lbs
  • Frequently pushing/pulling a max of 10 lbs
  • Occasionally lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling a max of 35 lbs
  • Rarely lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling a max of 100 lbs
  • Continuously working outside in changing temperatures, wet/humid conditions
  • Continuously working in areas of dust, odors, mist, gases, and other airborne matter
  • Occasionally stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling
  • Frequently climbing and/or balancing
  • Rarely sitting
  • Continuously standing
  • Frequently walking

Additional Working Conditions/Aspects:

  • Possible exposure to high traffic conditions and/or tight driving areas
  • Exposure to residential and commercial waste
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and/or holidays
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States
  • Valid driver’s license (if applicable)
  • Must successfully complete pre-employment testing
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language

This job description is intended to describe the general nature, complexity, and level of work to be performed by employees assigned to this position and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. It does not prescribe or restrict the work that may be assigned. Furthermore, this does not establish an employment contract and is subject to change at the discretion of the company.

Rumpke Waste and Recycling is committed to equality in all aspects of employment. It is Rumpke’s policy to provide equal opportunities to all employees and potential employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.