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Landfill Spotter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Landfill Technician

Winchester, VA · On-site

$44K - $49K/yr

Direct traffic or serve as a spotter at the landfill. * Assist with waste inspections. * Assist with mulching and tire shredding operations. * May be required to work non-routine hours for snow ...

Spotter/Laborer

Lacey, WA · On-site

$21/hr

The Spotter is responsible for safely and efficiently directing the vehicle drivers to the proper areas, based on site fill plan, of the landfill, transfer station or recycling centers, ensuring that ...

Spotter/Laborer

Lacey, WA · On-site

$21/hr

The Spotter is responsible for safely and efficiently directing the vehicle drivers to the proper areas, based on site fill plan, of the landfill, transfer station or recycling centers, ensuring that ...

Spotter/Laborer

Lacey, WA · On-site

$21/hr

The Spotter is responsible for safely and efficiently directing the vehicle drivers to the proper areas, based on site fill plan, of the landfill, transfer station or recycling centers, ensuring that ...

Equipment Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator - Timberlane Landfill Location: Oakdale, LA Pay: $21-24/hour (based on ... Act as a spotter to support safe on-site operations * Perform daily checks, cleaning, and basic ...

Equipment Operator

Oakdale, LA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator - Timberlane Landfill Location: Oakdale, LA Pay: $21-24/hour (based on ... Act as a spotter to support safe on-site operations * Perform daily checks, cleaning, and basic ...

Equipment Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator - Timberlane Landfill Location: Oakdale, LA Pay: $21-24/hour (based on ... Act as a spotter to support safe on-site operations * Perform daily checks, cleaning, and basic ...

Showing results 21-40

Landfill Spotter information

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$11

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$23

How much do landfill spotter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for landfill spotter in the United States is $17.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a landfill spotter?

Landfill spotters are workers responsible for monitoring and directing the flow of vehicles and waste at landfill sites. Their primary duties include ensuring that only authorized and approved materials are deposited, guiding trucks to proper dumping locations, and inspecting loads for hazardous or prohibited waste. Spotters also help maintain safety by watching for unsafe behaviors and reporting issues to supervisors. Their role is essential for the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation of a landfill.

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

To thrive as a Landfill Spotter, you need a good understanding of safety regulations, waste identification, and basic environmental practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with radio communication systems, personal protective equipment (PPE), and occasionally heavy equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication help spotters safely direct traffic and monitor site activities. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety of workers and the public while maintaining regulatory compliance at landfill sites.

What are some common challenges faced by landfill spotters, and how can they be managed effectively?

Landfill spotters often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining vigilance to ensure the correct placement of waste, and communicating clearly with heavy equipment operators to avoid safety hazards. Effective management of these challenges involves wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, staying alert to surroundings, and actively participating in daily safety briefings. Additionally, building strong communication skills and understanding site protocols help spotters collaborate efficiently with team members, ensuring a safe and organized landfill operation.

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

AspectLandfill SpotterWaste Management Technician
Required CredentialsBasic safety training, possibly OSHA certificationOSHA training, waste handling certifications
Work EnvironmentLandfill sites, outdoor, variable weatherWaste facilities, outdoor and indoor areas
Employer & Industry UsageLandfill operators, waste disposal companiesWaste collection, recycling centers, disposal facilities

Landfill Spotters primarily focus on monitoring landfill sites for safety and environmental compliance, while Waste Management Technicians handle waste collection, sorting, and processing. Both roles require safety training and work outdoors, but their specific duties and certifications differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position in the waste management industry.

More about Landfill Spotter jobs

What states have the most Landfill Spotter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Landfill Spotter jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Landfill Spotter jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Landfill Spotter jobs are:

Infographic showing various Landfill Spotter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,749 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Direct vehicles to the proper area of the facility based on the site fill plan and in inclement weather.

  • Inspect incoming loads for unacceptable waste and remove unsegregated items prior to disposal.

  • Follow safety policies, enforce safety rules, and communicate with equipment operators regarding special waste loads.


Republic Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 582 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 92 rated recycling and waste


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY: The Spotter is responsible for safely and efficiently directing the vehicle drivers to the proper areas, based on site fill plan, of the landfill, transfer station or recycling centers, ensuring that publicly-posted safety rules are followed. The position inspects incoming loads for unacceptable waste, removing such items before disposal at the site. The Spotter may also perform general laborer duties, including site clean-up, yard work and building maintenance, as necessary.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Follow all Company safety policies and procedures, including the proper manner in which to approach oncoming vehicles; make eye contact with drivers to ensure signals are understood; maintain use of personal protective equipment at all times.
  • Enforce publicly-posted safety rules and unposted safety standards at all times.
  • Direct vehicles to the proper area of the facility based on the site fill plan; direct trucks in and out of the site in inclement weather.
  • Inspect incoming loads for unacceptable waste; remove unsegregated items, including tires, batteries and other unacceptable materials prior to disposal at the site.
  • Communicate with equipment operators regarding incoming loads of special waste or other loads that require special attention.
  • Follow guidelines and procedures for completing daily closing tasks.
  • May perform general labor duties on an as-needed basis, including site clean-up, yard work and building maintenance.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.


QUALIFICATIONS:

  • One year of previous experience working around heavy machinery.
  • Ability to adhere to work schedule and follows through on challenges as they arise.
  • Ability to adhere to Company policies and rules that are set forth; promotes the Company's safety standards; works with a sense of honesty and trustworthiness.
  • Maintains a feeling of pride in work; strives to achieve all goals.

Rewarding Compensation and Benefits

Eligible employees can elect to participate in:
Comprehensive medical benefits coverage, dental plans and vision coverage.
Health care and dependent care spending accounts.
Short- and long-term disability.
Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment insurance.
Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP).
Employee discount programs.
Retirement plan with a generous company match.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Benefits: https://jobs.republicservices.com/us/en/about-us/benefits

The statements used herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by an employee in this position, and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required by an incumbent so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.

EEO STATEMENT:Republic Services is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, relationship or association with a protected veteran (spouses or other family members), genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. For any concerns relating to Republic Services' commitment to equal opportunity employment, you may contact the AWARE Line at 1-866-3-AWARE-4.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) is a leader in the environmental services industry. We provide customers with the most complete set of products and services, including recycling, waste, special waste, hazardous waste and field services.Our industry-leading commitments to advance circularity and support decarbonization are helping deliver on our vision to partner with customers to create a more sustainable world.


In 2025, Republic's total company revenue was $16.6 billion, and adjusted EBITDA was $5.3 billion. We serve 13 million customers and operate more than 1,000 locations, including collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and landfills.


Although we operate across North America, the collection, recycling, treatment, or disposal of materials is a local business, and the dynamics and opportunities differ in each market we serve. By combining local operational management with standardized business practices, we drive greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational decisions at the local level, closest to the customer.


Our customers, including small businesses, major corporations and municipalities, want a partner with the expertise and capabilities to effectively manage their multiple recycling and waste streams. They choose Republic Services because we are committed to exceeding their expectations and helping them achieve their sustainability goals. Our 42,000 team members understand that it's not just what we do that matters, but how we do it.


Our company values guide our daily actions:

  • Safe: We protect the livelihoods of our colleagues and communities.
  • Committed to Serve: We go above and beyond to exceed our customers' expectations.
  • Environmentally Responsible:We take action to improve our environment.
  • Driven: We deliver results in the right way.
  • Human-Centered:We respect the dignity and unique potential of every person.

We are proud of our high employee engagement score of 86. We have an inclusive and diverse culture where every voice counts. In addition, our team positively impacted 5.1 million people in 2024 through the Republic Services Charitable Foundation and local community grants. These projects are designed to meet the specific needs of the communities we serve, with a focus on building sustainable neighborhoods.


STRATEGY

Republic Services' strategy is designed to generate profitable growth. Through acquisitions and industry advancements, we safely and sustainably manage our customers' multiple waste streams through a North American footprint of vertically integrated assets.

We focus on three areas of growth to meet the increasing needs of our customers: recycling and waste, environmental solutions and sustainability innovation.

With our integrated approach, strengthening our position in one area advances other areas of our business. For example, as we grow volume in recycling and waste, we collect additional material to bolster our circularity capabilities. And as we expand environmental solutions, we drive additional opportunities to provide these services to our existing recycling and waste customers.


Recycling and Waste

We continue to expand our recycling and waste business footprint throughout North America through organic growth and targeted acquisitions. The 13 million customers we serve and our more than 5 million pick-ups per day provide us with a distinct advantage. We aggregate materials at scale, unlocking new opportunities for advanced recycling. In addition, we are cross-selling new products and services to better meet our customers' specific needs.


Environmental Solutions

Our comprehensive environmental solutions capabilities help customers safely manage their most technical waste streams. We are expanding both our capabilities and our geographic footprint. We see strong growth opportunities for our offerings, including PFAS remediation, an increasing customer need.


Sustainability Innovation

Republic's recent innovations to advance circularity and decarbonization demonstrate our unique ability to leverage sustainability as a platform for growth.


The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility. These innovative sites process rigid plastics from our recycling centers, producing recycled materials that promote true bottle-to-bottle circularity. We also formed Blue Polymers, a joint venture with Ravago, to develop facilities that will further process plastic material from our Polymer Centers to help meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging. We are building a network of Polymer Centers and Blue Polymer facilities across North America.


Our customers are increasingly looking for decarbonization solutions, and we are leveraging our network of landfills to meet that need. Republic is committed to harnessing landfill gas, a natural byproduct of decomposing waste, and converting it to energy. Republic has partnered with renewable gas developers to construct Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) plants at our landfills, expanding beyond the 77 projects we currently have to make progress towards our goal to beneficially reuse 50% more biogas by 2030 (2017 baseline year).


RECENT RECOGNITION

  • Barron's 100 Most Sustainable Companies
  • CDP Discloser
  • Dow Jones Best-In-Class Indices
  • Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies
  • Fortune World's Most Admired Companies
  • Great Place to Work
  • Sustainability Yearbook S&P Global

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