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Solid Waste Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Collector

Tolleson, AZ · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

The Solid Waste Collector is responsible for the collection, sorting, transportation, and disposal ... Experience in operating waste collection vehicles or machinery is preferred. * Ability to lift and ...

Solid Waste Technician

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$23.53 - $31.76/hr

Public Works & Utilities Division: 3700-SOLID WASTE SERVICES Opening Date: 08/18/2026 Closing Date ... Desired qualifications • Prior experience operating heavy machinery. • Familiar with ADEQ, OSHA ...

We are looking for someone to perform inspections of solid waste to ensure compliance with ... Desired qualifications Prior experience operating heavy machinery. Familiar with ADEQ, OSHA, and ...

Solid Waste Collector

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

The Solid Waste Collector is responsible for the collection, sorting, transportation, and disposal ... Experience in operating waste collection vehicles or machinery is preferred. * Ability to lift and ...

Solid Waste Collector

Tolleson, AZ · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

The Solid Waste Collector is responsible for the collection, sorting, transportation, and disposal ... Experience in operating waste collection vehicles or machinery is preferred. * Ability to lift and ...

Solid Waste Laborer DEPARTMENT: Public Services EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Regular; Full-Time SALARY: $17.00 Hr. CLASSIFICATION: Covered and Non-Exempt OPENING DATE: August 20, 2026 CLOSING DATE: Open Until ...

Solid Waste Laborer DEPARTMENT: Public Services EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Regular; Full-Time SALARY: $17.00 Hr. CLASSIFICATION: Covered and Non-Exempt OPENING DATE: August 20, 2026 CLOSING DATE: Open Until ...

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Solid Waste Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$23

$28

How much do solid waste operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for solid waste operator in Arizona is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a solid waste operator?

Solid Waste Operators are professionals responsible for the collection, transportation, and disposal of municipal solid waste. They operate equipment such as garbage trucks, compactors, and loaders to ensure that waste is handled safely and efficiently. Their role also includes sorting recyclables, maintaining sanitation standards, and complying with local environmental regulations. Solid Waste Operators play a crucial part in keeping communities clean and supporting public health.

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

To thrive as a Solid Waste Operator, you need knowledge of waste management procedures, basic mechanical skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent along with a commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA training are commonly required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help operators work efficiently and safely with team members and the public. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, compliant, and effective waste collection and disposal services.

What are the most common challenges faced by solid waste operators, and how can they be addressed?

Solid Waste Operators often encounter challenges such as handling hazardous materials, working in varying weather conditions, and managing heavy or bulky loads. These challenges can be addressed through comprehensive safety training, proper use of personal protective equipment, and adherence to established protocols for waste handling. Additionally, teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and other crew members help ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Solid Waste Operator vs Waste Collection Driver?

AspectSolid Waste OperatorWaste Collection Driver
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), safety trainingCDL, safety training
Work EnvironmentLandfills, transfer stations, recycling centersResidential and commercial routes, streets
Job DutiesOperate heavy equipment, manage waste processingDrive collection trucks, pick up waste

Both roles require a CDL and safety training, often working in similar environments. The main difference is that Solid Waste Operators focus on operating equipment and managing waste processing facilities, while Waste Collection Drivers primarily drive trucks and collect waste from customers' locations.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Solid Waste Operator jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Solid Waste Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Solid Waste Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,329 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

$23.53 - $31.76/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Salary: $23.53 - $31.76 Hourly
Location : 175 S. Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ
Job Type: Full-time, Regular
Job Number: 2700065
Department: Public Works & Utilities
Division: 3700-SOLID WASTE SERVICES
Opening Date: 08/18/2026
Closing Date: 8/24/2026 11:59 PM Arizona
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Job Announcement
The City of Chandler Public Works & Utilities Department is currently seeking qualified individuals interested in joining our team as Solid Waste Technicians. These full-time positions are scheduled to work on-site, with the following rotational/seasonal shifts: every 4-week rotation of Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Thursday through Monday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, or Thursday through Monday, 5:30 AM - 2:30 PM, during our summer schedule.
Current City of Chandler employees may only hold one position and are not eligible for additional part-time or secondary positions within the City of Chandler.
Why work for Chandler?
• Open and collaborative environment
• Up to 8 hours paid time off annually to volunteer in the community
• Dress code is business casual, with jeans on Fridays
• 3 medical plans to choose from along with dental and vision coverage
• Accrue 130 hours paid vacation in your first year, eligible for use immediately following accrual
• Accrue 96 hours paid sick leave in your first year, eligible for use immediately following accrual
• 12 paid holidays annually, with the potential for additional holiday leave the end of 2026, subject to approval by the City Manager
• Become part of the Arizona State Retirement System with a 100% city contribution match
• City contributions of 1% gross wages per pay period to deferred compensation
• Robust Employee Wellness program with $350 incentive
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 annually
• Free Tumbleweed Recreation Center membership
Who we are
Chandler, the fourth largest City in Arizona, is located in one of the fastest growing innovation and technology centers in the nation. Chandler is a vibrant, diverse, fiscally responsible community with a supportive business climate that attracts global industry leaders, exciting startups, talented workers and their families. In addition to being a great place to live, play and work at our local hotels, resorts, golf courses, restaurants and ample shopping opportunities make Chandler one of Arizona's great vacation spots.
Who we are looking for
Our new team member will have a passion for customer service, teamwork, and collaboration. We are looking for someone to perform inspections of solid waste to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and/or codes at a landfill and in the field, and to operate the residential drop-off site and household hazardous waste facilities. Since these roles are outdoors, you should be comfortable with Arizona's weather. A CDL is not necessary, but prior experience with heavy machinery is preferred.
To view the complete job description, please click here
Minimum qualifications
• A High School Diploma or GED; and
• 2 years of experience in field inspections and working and communicating with the public; and
• A valid Driver's License with an acceptable driving record; and
• Obtain and maintain 40-hour HAZWOPER within 1 year of hire or promotion; or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work.
Desired qualifications
• Prior experience operating heavy machinery.
• Familiar with ADEQ, OSHA, and EPA environmental issues and regulations
• Familiar with Household Hazardous Waste facilities and their operations
This is a regular full-time position, subject to a 6-month probationary period. A register of qualified candidates will be active for 4 months should another position become available.
The City of Chandler will conduct a pre-employment driving record check as a condition of employment. An offer of employment is contingent upon acceptable results. All applicants hired will be required to be fingerprinted with successful results as a condition of continued employment.
Applicants for employment and volunteer opportunities should be aware of the City of Chandler's policies concerning the use of drugs and alcohol. These policies have not been altered by the passage of Proposition 207. The use of recreational marijuana is a violation of the city's Drug Free Workplace Policy. Certain positions within the city are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test. A positive result for drugs tested under the policy, including recreational marijuana, may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment or volunteer opportunity. The examination process may vary if determined necessary.
The City of Chandler is committed to Equal Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation.
The City of Chandler offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and some part-time positions. For more detailed information on the benefits offered, please
01
Do you have a High School Diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have 2 years of experience in field inspections, including working and communicating with the public?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Briefly describe your experience in field inspections, working, and communicating with the public. If none, write NONE.
04
Do you have a valid Driver's License with an acceptable driving record?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have prior working experience operating heavy equipment?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have prior experience working at a Household Hazardous Waste facility and are familiar with its operations?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question