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Solid Waste Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Island County

Solid Waste Technician 4

Coupeville, WA · On-site

$30.08 - $31.92/hr

As such, during the absence of the Solid Waste Working Foreman on weekends, the senior Solid Waste ... Ability to read, understand and comprehend basic instruction and operating manuals as well as ...

Island County, WA

Solid Waste Technician 4

Coupeville, WA · On-site

$30.08 - $31.92/hr

Public Works Solid Waste Technicians Opening Date: 07/02/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Summary ... Ability to read, understand and comprehend basic instruction and operating manuals as well as ...

Olathe

Solid Waste Collection Operator

Olathe, KS · On-site

$29/hr

Solid Waste Collection Operators play a vital role in keeping Olathe clean, safe, and welcoming by providing dependable service that residents rely on and by supporting efforts to reduce landfill ...

City of Tulare

Solid Waste Manager

Tulare, CA · On-site

$96K - $117K/yr

The City of Tulare Solid Waste Division operates as a financially self-sustaining Enterprise Fund ... Direct a robust Enterprise Fund with independent revenues of $15.1 million and an operating budget ...

Corning

Solid Waste Collector

Tolleson, AZ

$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 ...

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How much do solid waste operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for solid waste operator in the United States is $25.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Solid Waste Operators?

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 cities are hiring for Solid Waste Operator jobs? Cities with the most Solid Waste Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Solid Waste Operator jobs? The top employers for Solid Waste Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Solid Waste Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Solid Waste Operator jobs include:
Solid Waste Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solid Waste Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,934 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Solid Waste Operator I

Solid Waste Operator I

The City of Coral Gables

Miami, FL

$45K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

City Of Coral Gables rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

670th of 686 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Summary Operates trash truck and related vehicles in the performance of solid waste collection duties. Work is usually assigned and performed under the direction of a Crane Operator, or other supervisory staff. Job Duties and Responsibilities The following duties are normal for this position.

The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Operates various vehicles, including flat bed, dump truck and trash truck to transfer and remove trash and other debris. Performs required vehicle inspection and maintenance activities.

Prepares operator service request reports regarding deficiencies noted in vehicle operation and/or condition. Follows assigned route and offloads trash at the appropriate facility. Provides traffic control during collection process.

Assists with consolidation of trash in collection sites, insuring thorough collection of debris. Answers questions from the public regarding collection schedules and acceptable refuse materials. Reports any hazardous and unsafe conditions.

Performs site maintenance and repairs as needed, including raking debris from trash collection areas on collection route. Follows Departmental, and local state and federal regulations pertaining to the safe operation of assigned vehicles. Cleans interior and exterior of trucks, including behind the blade.

Refuels vehicles daily. Performs work of a higher classification when required. Assists cross/inter-divisionally to ensure that overall departmental goals are met.

Conforms with and abides by all regulations, policies, work procedures and instructions. Conforms toall safety rules including thewearing and using of all appropriate personal protection equipment. Performs other related tasks as required.

Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. Valid Florida Class B Commercial Driver's License. CDL requirement may be waived for up to 120 days but must be obtained by the end of the 120 days for continued employment; as long as employee has a valid Florida Driver's License.

Six months experience driving trucks or related equipment. A comparable amount of training or experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications. Additional Information The City of Coral Gables is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Drug Free Workplace.

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