ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Landfill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Meridian Waste

Landfill Operator

Knoxville, TN

The Operator - Heavy Equipment is responsible for the safe operation of heavy equipment at a recycling center, landfill or transfer station for the purpose of transferring, spreading, covering ...

Boone County Iowa

Equipment Operator - Landfill

Boone, IA · On-site

$23.19/hr

Landfill Description: Heavy Equipment operator for the Boone County Landfill located at 1268 224th Ln., Boone, Iowa. The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate and maintain heavy, motorized equipment ...

Apply Early

CITY OF CHEYENNE

Landfill Foreman

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$54K - $76K/yr

Solid Waste Landfill Operator Certification through the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (WYDEQ) obtained within one year of hire. Preferred : * Five (5) years of progressively responsible ...

CITY OF CHEYENNE

Landfill Foreman

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$54K - $76K/yr

Solid Waste Landfill Operator Certification through the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (WYDEQ) obtained within one year of hire. Preferred : * Five (5) years of progressively responsible ...

Republic Services

Ops Manager Landfill

Edwardsville, IL · On-site

$90K - $124K/yr

Certification as a Landfill Operator. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: * High School Diploma or GED. * Minimum of 2 years of supervisory or management experience or participation in Republic Services ...

Republic Services

Ops Manager Landfill

Lowellville, OH · On-site

$81K - $112K/yr

Certification as a Landfill Operator. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: * High School Diploma or GED. * Minimum of 2 years of supervisory or management experience or participation in Republic Services ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLandfill Operator Jobs

Landfill Operator information

See salary details

$14

$19

$26

How much do landfill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for landfill operator in the United States is $19.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are landfill operators?

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 is the highest paying heavy equipment operator?

The highest paying heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in crane operation, excavators, or bulldozers, especially with advanced certifications and experience. Crane operators, in particular, tend to earn the highest wages due to the skill and safety requirements involved. Experience, certifications, and working in specialized environments can significantly increase earning potential for heavy equipment operators.

What are the daily tasks of a landfill operator?

A landfill operator's daily tasks include operating heavy machinery such as bulldozers and compactors to manage waste, monitoring landfill conditions, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and performing maintenance on equipment. They also inspect the site for hazards, record waste levels, and may assist with environmental compliance and record-keeping.

How much do landfills make?

Landfill operators typically earn an average annual salary between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the size of the facility and the complexity of operations, with some experienced operators earning higher wages. The job often requires knowledge of environmental regulations and equipment operation.

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's the highest paying job in waste management?

In waste management, landfill managers or facility directors typically earn the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. These roles require experience, management skills, and knowledge of environmental regulations, and they oversee operations at waste disposal sites or landfills.
More about Landfill Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Landfill Operator jobs? Cities with the most Landfill Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Landfill Operator jobs? The top employers for Landfill Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Landfill Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Landfill Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Landfill Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Landfill Operator jobs are:
Landfill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Landfill Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Full Time, 97% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,576 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Landfill Operator/Mechanic

Landfill Operator/Mechanic

Highlands County Board of County Commissioners

Sebring, FL • On-site

$44K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Department: Landfill
Reports to: Landfill Manager
Pay Grade/Salary Range: 108 - $44,340.55 - $70,944.88 ($21.32 - $34.11 hourly)
Posting Expires:Until FilledGENERAL DESCRIPTION:
A highly skilled position responsible for operation and maintenance of heavy construction equipment and light mobile equipment in the Solid Waste Operation. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
The following statements describe the principal functions of the job and its scope of responsibility but should not be considered an all-inclusive list of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned.
• Operates the following equipment: 1) dozer, 2) 4-yard front end loader, 3) motor grader, 4) excavator, 5) landfill compactor, 6) other larger and complex equipment. Occasionally operates smaller equipment.
• Complete extensive pre-trip Inspections and Operate medium to heavy construction equipment including Dozer, Excavators, and Compactors in the daily operations of the Solid Waste disposal sites.
• Helps in training and betterment of other less skilled operators or other staff.
• Performs mechanical repairs and service on light and heavy equipment.
• Operates mobile fuel truck and performs daily service of equipment.
• Maintains a professional and safe unit and work area adhering to established safety policies and the image desired for the organization.
• Follows consistently the Board policies and procedures.
• Responds productively to change and performs all other related tasks as directed.
• Washes, cleans and provides first echelon maintenance for all equipment operated.
• Cuts slopes and new grades in fine measurements and specifications.
• Operates other equipment as needed.
• Acts as a crew leader on certain jobs. Performs manual laboring tasks as needed.
• Occasional direct supervisory authority over crews working at specific work sites.
• Does ditching and other construction with graders, excavators and similar heavy equipment.
• Fills holes and repairs roads and landfill slopes.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Extensive knowledge of the operation, service and mechanical repair of heavy and light equipment.
• Extensive knowledge of equipment inspections and operational skills of various pieces of medium and heavy construction equipment.
• Extensive knowledge of the hazards involved in the repair and use of heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of precautionary measures necessary to avoid accidents.
• Skill and operation of grader, excavator or other similar heavy equipment.
• Ability to understand and communicate oral and written instructions.
• Ability to manage and supervise staff or contract personnel as appropriate
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, managers, supervisors, directors, elected officials, vendors, and the general public.
PHYSICAL SKILLS:
Must be able to remain in a stationary position for 10% of the time. Frequently operates and repairs various types of equipment to include but not limited to hand and power tools. Frequently communicates with the public and co-workers. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations. Frequently ascends/descends stairs, ladders, scaffolding, etc. Occasionally moves materials and equipment weighing up to 40 lbs. Frequently works in an outdoor environment up to four (4) hours. Frequently operates a motor vehicle or heavy equipment for up to four (4) hours continuously or intermittently. Frequently positions self to work under or around various items to perform maintenance tasks. Occasionally works in rugged terrain; to include very steep, wet, muddy, rough, uneven or rocky surfaces. Positions require physical exertions such as bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching or similar activities. Continuous exposure to moderately high noise levels.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Graduation from high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma is preferred and a minimum of four (4) years of experience in the operation and maintenance of heavy and mobile equipment.LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, OR REGISTRATIONS:
Must possess and maintain a valid FL Commercial Class B license or higher while employed. This position will also require a Hazmat endorsement. (3 months to complete)OTHER JOB-RELATED REQUIREMENTS:
Disaster Essential.
THE HIGHLANDS COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Does not Discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, religious belief, color, national origin, disability/handicap, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetics or any other legally protected group/class. We are proud to be a drug free workplace. Screening tests for illegal drug use may be required as a condition of employment

Apply