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Solid Waste Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Solid Waste Manager information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$71.9K

$111K

How much do solid waste manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for solid waste manager in California is $71,937.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $92,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a solid waste manager do?

A solid waste manager appropriately disposes of solid waste such as residential trash and industrial waste. People in waste management often work at a recycling center or landfill in a specific district to ensure the proper disposal of garbage. They aid in resource conservation by maintaining procedures that follow environmental and industry guidelines. Additional responsibilities of a solid waste manager may include implementing new waste-removal tools and processes as well as training new employees.

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

To thrive as a Solid Waste Manager, you need expertise in waste management practices, environmental regulations, and project management, often supported by a relevant degree in environmental science or engineering. Familiarity with GIS software, waste tracking systems, and certification such as SWANA is commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams, budgets, and stakeholder relationships effectively. These skills are essential for ensuring regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and sustainable waste solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by solid waste managers and how can they be addressed?

Solid Waste Managers often encounter challenges such as ensuring regulatory compliance, managing operational costs, and coordinating a diverse workforce. Addressing these challenges involves staying up-to-date with local, state, and federal regulations, implementing efficient waste collection and disposal methods, and fostering strong communication within teams. Proactively investing in staff training and modernizing equipment can also help overcome operational hurdles and promote a safe, efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Solid Waste Manager vs Waste Collection Supervisor?

AspectSolid Waste ManagerWaste Collection Supervisor
CredentialsEnvironmental certifications, management experienceRelevant safety and operational certifications
Work EnvironmentOffice-based planning, field oversightField supervision of collection crews
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, waste management companiesWaste collection services, sanitation departments
Search & ComparisonFocus on waste management strategies and policiesFocus on daily collection operations

The main difference is that a Solid Waste Manager oversees overall waste management programs, planning, and policy implementation, often in an office setting. In contrast, a Waste Collection Supervisor directly supervises collection crews and daily operations in the field. Both roles require safety and operational certifications, but the Solid Waste Manager typically has more strategic responsibilities.

More about Solid Waste Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Solid Waste jobs in California?

The most popular types of Solid Waste jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Solid Waste Manager jobs in California?

For Solid Waste Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solid Waste Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Solid Waste Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Solid Waste Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Solid Waste Manager job openings:

Solid Waste Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solid Waste Manager job openings in California 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 $71,937 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

Solid Waste Engineer

Essel

San Diego, CA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved with public and private clients in marketing, client management, and project production.

Responsibilities include project management, business development, and staff development. Project responsibility will have a primary focus on solid waste management, including landfill gas, landfills and landfill infrastructure, composting, and other projects, which may require design, engineering, permitting, construction and/or operations support. You can be hybrid out of our San Diego, Long Beach, Pleasanton, or Sacramento office. Remote work might also be considered if you live in California.

  • Apply intensive and diversified knowledge of engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related fields.
  • Prepare engineering calculations, drawings, reports, and permit applications.
  • Make decisions independently on engineering or scientific problems and methods, plans and coordinate work, and represent us at meetings and conferences.
  • Field work performed by high/driving in varied terrain and weather will be required, including but not limited to, surveys/data gathering, CQA liner installations, inspections, etc.
  • Office-based tasks including: CAD drafting, mathematical calculations, report writing, creating site plans and facility diagrams, and permit applications.
  • Business development including: proposal preparation, meeting with clients, and attending industry-related conferences/trade shows.
  • Receive technical guidance on unusual or complex problems and supervisory approval on proposed plans or projects.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering field required.
  • Minimum of 6 years of relevant working knowledge/demonstrated consulting experience with projects specific to the solid waste industry, including:
    • Landfill gas management, air compliance, and landfill design and permitting is required.
  • E.I.T. required and California P.E (civil) registration or ability to obtain within 6 months preferred.
  • Valid driver's license with a driving record in good standing required.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, vision, 401K, and employer-funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Student Debt Employer Contribution Program
  • Paid holidays and PTO
Essel logo

About Essel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and temporary help services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

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