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Solid Waste Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Operator I

Fort Myers, FL ยท On-site

$22.51 - $34.04/hr

Duties/Responsibilities Operates solid waste vehicle(s) and the collection of trash/recycling along an assigned route. Transports and disposes trash and recycling materials at authorized designated ...

Minimum Qualifications Completion of the eighth grade and two years experience operating heavy and ... Satisfactory completion of a course in hazardous waste identification is required within the first ...

Solid Waste Operator l

Seminole, FL ยท On-site

$37K - $48K/yr

ES Solid Waste Management Opening Date: 08/20/2026 Closing Date: 9/3/2026 11:59 PM Eastern ... No 02 Do you have experience operating heavy equipment (check all that apply)? * D7 or larger Bull ...

Financial Stewardship Prepare and administer annual operating and capital budgets. Perform rate and ... Experience in municipal solid waste, public works, or related operations, including four (4) years ...

Solid Waste Equipment Operator

Bell, FL ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Experienced Equipment Operator Gilchrist County Solid Waste & Recycling is seeking an experienced Equipment Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience operating heavy ...

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Solid Waste Operator information

See Florida salary details

$9

$19

$22

How much do solid waste operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for solid waste operator in Florida is $19.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.48 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.

Infographic showing various Solid Waste Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,557 per year, or $19 per hour.

Solid Waste Operator III

City of Brooksville, FL

Brooksville, FL โ€ข On-site

$20.51/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

STARTING PAY: $20.51/hr (commensurate with experience)

BENEFITS OF WORKING FOR THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE:

20 days of PTO for the first year (unutilized hours roll over) and accrual increases with years of service

12 paid holidays and 2 floating holidays

Flexible scheduling for participating departments

Florida Retirement System Pension and Investment Plan

Employer paid health coverage

Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 a year!

Job summary

The primary responsibility of this position is the collection and transportation of solid waste and/or recyclable materials typically using rear loader garbage truck and mobile boom truck, recycling truck and Front-Loader garbage truck. The employee may be required to operate a solid waste vehicle in tight, confined locations as well as in the presence of other vehicles and pedestrians. The work may be performed individually or by a two person team, which requires a cooperative work attitude to maintain efficient job production. The employee provides direction to the Solid Waste Collector. Incumbents perform driving and loading duties, perform daily and weekly equipment safety, cleaning, lubrication and other maintenance tasks. Work schedules will vary and may include nights, weekends and/or holidays and call-out in emergencies. Typical hours are 6am - 2:30pm. May act as supervisor for Solid Waste Operators I and II, as needed. Qualifications and a summary of essential and related duties and responsibilities are set forth below. Employees must participate in emergency preparedness and response activities, and complete required NIMS (National Incident Management System) training as directed.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Operates three of the following vehicles: Rear loader garbage truck, boom truck, recycle truck and/or front loader, street sweeper or other collection vehicles as needed a minimum of eighty hours (80) hours of operation of each truck is required to maintain classification.
  • Operates other solid waste collection equipment on a temporary, trainee, or emergency basis.
  • Driver is responsible for job site safety and control.
  • Lift, pickup, and load household trash and related materials.
  • Perform daily and weekly safety checks, washing, waxing, cleaning, lubrication, tire changes, brush painting and general maintenance of equipment as scheduled/needed.
  • Notifies supervisor of issues or concerns requiring attention.
  • Work special shifts to accommodate work load, typically before and after holidays or special events.
  • Work safely, diligently and responsibly at completing assigned duties.
  • Perform other duties not specifically enumerated within the job functions listed above as may be required at the discretion of the City.
  • Supervises personnel in the absence of the Solid Waste Supervisor or as needed.

Knowledge skills and abilities:

  • Knowledge in the safe operation of large, single unit trucks in the 60,000 lbs GVW range and above as are commonly used in solid waste collection activities.
  • Knowledge in the correct and safe methods for bending, lifting, climbing and proper use of appropriate safety equipment.
  • Knowledge of the hazards of operation and appropriate safety rules and regulations.
  • Skill in safe operation of assigned equipment.
  • Skill in the care and use of solid waste equipment.
  • Ability to work in adverse weather conditions.
  • Ability to repetitively lift 40 lbs. of material common to solid waste collection.
  • Ability to work cooperatively with assigned teammate.
  • Ability to cross-train with other personnel within the City and become proficient enough to operate other equipment in a fill-in capacity.
  • Ability to operate power washing, steam cleaning and lubricating equipment.
  • Ability to perform assigned duties timely and effectively while working carefully and complying with safety rules.
  • Ability to follow directions and complete assignments accurately and on time.
  • Ability to project a good public image and maintain effective customer relations.
  • Ability to interact courteously with the public, government officials, supervisors and co-workers.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment, and perform at a high level of efficiency and productivity.
  • Ability to comply with the City’s regulations and procedures and actively support the Department and City goals, programs, and objectives.
  • Ability to work independently and confidentially without close supervision
  • Ability to read, comprehends, implement, and complete written and/or oral directions in English.
  • Ability to maintain acceptable safety, driving and attendance record.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS LISTED AS FOLLOWS:

Physical Skills: Use of both hands with majority of fingers in each hand. 20/40 vision (in at least one eye), and be able to hear and understand and verbally communicate in English at normal conversational levels in a typical governmental office (corrective devices acceptable). Occasional light lifting and/or carrying, bending, stooping, working, standing and pulling. Must be able to easily carry (50) lbs.

Education: High School Diploma or GED equivalency certificate as issued a State Board of Education.

Experience: Five (5) or more years of experience in the operation of heavy/complex solid waste or construction vehicles and equipment, including performance of minor repairs and maintenance. Leadership or crew lead experience, preferred.

Licenses & certifications: Valid Florida Commercial Driver’s license (CDL) Class “B” with a good driving record and acceptable to the city insurance carrier.

ADA STATEMENT: A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE: City of Brooksville is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida law.

VETERANS' PREFERENCE: Under Section 295.07, F.S., Chapter SSA-7, City of Brooksville provides to Veterans, that preference in appointment will be given to preference-eligible applicants.