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Solid Waste Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Engineer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$40

$46

$52

How much do solid waste engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for solid waste engineer in Rhode Island is $46.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.56 and $49.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a solid waste engineer?

Solid Waste Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and manage systems for the collection, treatment, and disposal of solid waste. Their work includes developing landfill sites, overseeing recycling and composting programs, and ensuring that waste management practices comply with environmental regulations. They play a key role in minimizing the environmental impact of waste and often collaborate with government agencies, private companies, and the public to develop sustainable solutions. Solid Waste Engineers also conduct site assessments, monitor pollution levels, and recommend improvements to waste management systems.

What does a solid waste engineer do?

As a solid waste engineer, your responsibilities are to support the environmental work of a landfill. Your duties include creating a design for a solid waste treatment facility, improving how recycling programs function, arranging for the proper disposal of trash and garbage containers, and creating sanitation plans to ensure workers are not sickened by the content of landfills. To accomplish these tasks, you use software like AutoCAD, collect environmental samples, apply for permits from any relevant agency, and create reports detailing the goals of each project. In some areas, you must work with large amounts of hazardous waste.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solid waste engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solid Waste Engineer, you need a background in environmental or civil engineering, with knowledge of waste management regulations and practices, and typically a bachelor's degree in engineering. Familiarity with design software (such as AutoCAD), GIS systems, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with stakeholders and managing projects. These skills ensure the development of safe, compliant, and sustainable waste management solutions that protect public health and the environment.

What are some common challenges solid waste engineers face when managing landfill projects?

Solid Waste Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations, addressing community concerns about odor or groundwater contamination, and optimizing landfill operations for maximum capacity and minimum environmental impact. They must also coordinate with contractors, local agencies, and other engineers to design effective waste containment and leachate management systems. Staying updated on new technologies and best practices is essential to successfully navigating these challenges and ensuring the long-term sustainability of waste management projects.

What is the difference between Solid Waste Engineer vs Environmental Engineer?

AspectSolid Waste EngineerEnvironmental Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil, Environmental, or related engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) often preferredBachelor's in Environmental, Civil, or Chemical Engineering; PE certification common
Work EnvironmentWaste management facilities, landfills, recycling plantsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial sites
Industry UsageFocuses on waste collection, disposal, and landfill designBroader environmental issues including pollution control and sustainability

Solid Waste Engineers primarily focus on waste management systems, landfills, and recycling processes, working closely with waste facilities. Environmental Engineers have a broader scope, addressing pollution, water quality, and environmental compliance. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in related industries, but their core responsibilities differ in focus and application.

What are popular job titles related to Solid Waste Engineer jobs in Rhode Island?

For Solid Waste Engineer jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solid Waste Engineer jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Solid Waste Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:

Infographic showing various Solid Waste Engineer job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,638 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer

Worthington Enterprises

West Warwick, RI • On-site

$85K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Worthington Enterprises rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

323rd of 493 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description


We are hiring a Manufacturing Engineer at our West Warwick facility. The Manufacturing Engineer supports manufacturing operations through the implementation and continuous improvement of processes, systems, and standards that enhance safety, quality, productivity, and cost performance. The ideal candidate is a shop-floor-first Engineer who collaborates throughout the facility to solve problems. This role partners with production, quality, maintenance, and leadership teams to identify opportunities for operational improvement, eliminate waste, and support sustainable manufacturing excellence across the facility.
Why Join Worthington?
  • Day 1 access to our excellent benefits package
  • Quarterly bonus/incentive pay
  • 11 paid holidays
  • Team work environment
  • Growth/learning opportunities and on-site training to improve your skillsets
  • On-site cafe so you can enjoy a home cooked meal for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner

Responsibilities:
  • Evaluate and improve existing manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality. Support production operations by identifying and resolving process-related issues that impact safety, quality, delivery, or productivity. Analyze manufacturing data and performance metrics to identify trends, improvement opportunities, and corrective actions.
  • Develop, maintain, and improve standard work instructions, process documentation, visual controls, manufacturing procedures, and operating procedures, ensuring all documentation remains accurate, current, and compliant with company standards. Train and support employees on manufacturing processes, standard work, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing principles and tools. Lead and participate in root cause analysis activities related to quality, equipment, and production concerns. Participate in Kaizen events and continuous improvement activities to drive operational excellence.
  • Support manufacturing projects focused on improving throughput, reducing downtime, and increasing operational effectiveness. Assist in evaluating manufacturing equipment, tooling, and workflow improvements to increase operational effectiveness. Work closely with production leadership to identify and remove barriers impacting operational performance.
  • Assist with the development, tracking, and reporting of key performance indicators (KPIs), including efficiency, scrap, rework, downtime, and productivity measures. Support the implementation and sustainment of safety, quality, and compliance initiatives throughout the facility. Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge/Technical Skills/Certifications/Experience Required
  • Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills (written and verbal) with the ability to effectively communicate at all organizational levels.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to drive issue resolution.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing operations and production processes.
  • Experience utilizing Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies.
  • Ability to analyze data and make recommendations that improve operational performance.
  • Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Experience with manufacturing metrics, reporting, and performance measurement.
  • Strong organizational, planning, and project management skills.
  • Solid understanding of safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
  • Ability to influence, collaborate, and achieve results through cross-functional teamwork.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
  • Lean certification or equivalent continuous improvement experience preferred.

Compensation range will vary depending on level of experience. $85,000-$139,000
About Us
Our Company is proud to have a dynamic and inclusive workforce where employees are empowered to innovate, thrive and grow. We believe that each employee's unique strengths contribute to the success of our organization. This belief extends to how we consider our job applicants. Your talents may align with this position or other opportunities within our organization. Apply today to start unlocking your career potential with Worthington Enterprises.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in the application and hiring process. If you are interested in employment with Worthington Enterprises and need an accommodation or assistance using the careers website, please contact careers@wthg.com.
Worthington Enterprises (NYSE: WOR) is a designer and manufacturer of market-leading brands that help improve everyday life by elevating spaces and experiences. The Company operates with two primary business units: Building Products and Consumer Products.
The Building Products segment includes cooking, heating, cooling and water solutions, architectural and acoustical grid ceilings and metal framing and accessories. The Consumer Products segment provides solutions for the tools, outdoor living and celebrations categories. Product brands within the Worthington Enterprises portfolio include Balloon Time®, Bernzomatic®, Coleman® (propane cylinders), CoMet®, Elgen, Garden Weasel®, General®, HALO™, Hawkeye™, Level5 Tools®, Mag Torch®, NEXI™, Pactool International®, PowerCore™, Ragasco®, Well-X-Trol® and XLite™, among others.
Founded in 1955 as Worthington Industries, Worthington Enterprises follows a people-first Philosophy with earning money for its shareholders as its first corporate goal. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Worthington Enterprises and its joint ventures employ approximately 6,000 people throughout North America and Europe.

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