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Transfer Station Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

For a customer focused Transfer Station Operators (TSO) who are responsive problem solvers and who will support the Department and Division goals on Environmental Sustainability. Be part of this unit ...

... transfer station, recycling center or landfill. Responsibilities may include such things as yard ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

... transfer station, recycling center or landfill. Responsibilities may include such things as yard ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

... transfer station, recycling center or landfill. Responsibilities may include such things as yard ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

About the Team The Operations Section of the Solid Waste Division runs a countywide transfer and ... Performing periodic testing of conveyance pump stations, pressure, temperature, water flow, and ...

Vessel Operator I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$30.08/hr

... collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

... collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

... collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

... collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

... collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

... collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

... collection and transfer stations, recycling and polymer centers, treatment facilities, and ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Daily inspections, repairs of vehicles and equipment are important to the success of our day-to-day operations and in keeping the transfer stations and landfill operating at optimal levels. Examples ...

Heavy Duty Mechanic I

Seattle, WA · On-site

$44.83 - $55/hr

Daily inspections, repairs of vehicles and equipment are important to the success of our day-to-day operations and in keeping the transfer stations and landfill operating at optimal levels. Examples ...

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Transfer Station Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$16

$27

$42

How much do transfer station operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for transfer station operator in Seattle, WA is $27.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a transfer station operator?

Transfer Station Operators are professionals who manage the day-to-day operations at waste transfer stations, where waste is temporarily held before being transported to its final disposal site. Their responsibilities include monitoring incoming and outgoing waste, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, operating heavy equipment, and maintaining safety standards. They play a crucial role in efficient waste management and help minimize environmental impact by properly sorting and handling materials.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a transfer station operator?

To thrive as a Transfer Station Operator, you need knowledge of waste handling, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant certifications. Familiarity with heavy machinery (such as loaders and compactors), computerized scale systems, and hazardous waste management is typically required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills that enhance safety and teamwork. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient, compliant, and safe operations in waste management environments.

What are common challenges faced by transfer station operators, and how can they be addressed?

Transfer Station Operators often encounter challenges such as handling heavy equipment safely, managing high volumes of waste during peak hours, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Staying vigilant with safety protocols and participating in ongoing training can help mitigate risks. Additionally, effective communication with team members and supervisors is key to efficiently resolving operational or logistical issues that arise during daily tasks.

What is the difference between Transfer Station Operator vs Waste Collection Driver?

AspectTransfer Station OperatorWaste Collection Driver
CredentialsHigh school diploma, CDL often preferredHigh school diploma, CDL required
Work EnvironmentTransfer stations, waste processing facilitiesOn-road, residential/commercial routes
Industry UsageWaste management, recycling facilitiesWaste collection, sanitation services
Job FocusSorting, unloading, managing waste at transfer sitesDriving, collecting waste from locations

While both roles are part of waste management, Transfer Station Operators focus on managing waste at transfer facilities, whereas Waste Collection Drivers handle the collection of waste directly from customers' locations. Both require CDL licenses and are essential to efficient waste services, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

Infographic showing various Transfer Station Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,630 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Transfer Station Operator

King County

Seattle, WA

$38.29 - $58/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


King County (Washington) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Summary   Solid Waste Division is a collaborative, forward-thinking, innovative workgroup. We interact with customers providing service, education, and guidance to ensure a successful experience. We are stewards for the environment, we focus on our customers, and we collaborate to drive results.

About this role: Educating customers on diverting material away from Landfill, collaborating with recycle vendors, recover material of reusable resources. About the team: For a customer focused Transfer Station Operators (TSO) who are responsive problem solvers and who will support the Department and Division goals on Environmental Sustainability. Be part of this unit as the TSO Staff is well respected and creates positive change for all operational aspects (i.e

collection of materials, site design, safety committee, equipment purchasing, etc.). You will stay busy as you rotate between tasks, operate a variety of equipment, and work at several locations. Your efforts will help improve, contribute, and support changes that are currently happening

Job Duties Safely operate transfer station equipment, which may include front end loaders, pre-load compactors, pedestal compactors, backhoe loader, bailers, forklifts, and skid steers/bobcat and operate yard trucks ("goats") to pull empty garbage hauling trailers into chutes and full trailers out to parking areas through sometimes confined areas. Customer-centric interaction with public and commercial haulers to educate and direct patrons with recycling diversion. Safely assist customers to safely maneuver and park vehicle, and properly utilize facility to avoid customer injury.

Screen for hazardous and unacceptable materials and take appropriate action. Maintain property and facility within boundary. Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills Minimum one (1) year experience operating specific heavy equipment such as: (NOTE: Your application work history must demonstrate experience in this area.) front end loaders mini excavator driving or hosteling truck & trailer Minimum one (1) year experience related to: (NOTE: Your application work history must demonstrate experience in this area.) Customer Service in an industrial environment Operating hand tools in an industrial environment Competencies You Bring: Ensures Accountability: Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments

Customer Focus: Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions. Manages Conflict: Handling conflict situations effectively, with a minimum of noise. Values Differences: Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization.

Situational Adaptability: Adapting approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations. Required Licenses: Valid Washington State Driver's License and ability to travel to multiple transfer station locations during the workday/shift. Offers of employment will be contingent upon verification of a valid Washington State Driver's License or verification of the ability to travel to other transfer stations during the workday/shift.

It Would Be Great if You Also Bring: Basic computer skills for timesheet entry, email communication, virtual training and meetings. Basic mechanical skills providing facility and yard maintenance. Supplemental Information Working Conditions: Work Location: On-site work, multiple locations within King County (Algona, Enumclaw, Renton, Tukwila, Factoria, Houghton, Shoreline, Vashon) Work Schedule: Multiple schedules include: 5/8 (5 days, 8 hours, 2 days off) 7/10 (7 days, 10 hours, 7 days off) and 7/10 Regular Part-Time (RPT) (7 days, 10 hours, 7 days off).

RPT is primarily assigned to a 7/10 work schedule (7 days on, 10 hours per day, followed by 7 days off (Monday - Sunday). RPT positions are not guaranteed hours and are schedule to work as needed to supplement full-time schedules, with variable work hours, which include Day, Swing, and Graveyard shifts. RPT positions are utilized on a regular basis.

Union Representation: This position is represented by Teamsters, Local 174. Physical Requirements and Environment: Ability to work in, and operate heavy equipment and machinery on, uneven slopes, surfaces, and terrain, in heat/cold, wet/humid, inclement weather and other adverse conditions such as odor, high volume noise, dust, heavy traffic and confined spaces. Able to lift and carry 50 pounds.

Experience working in adverse weather conditions and industrial environment. FLSA Status: This position is overtime eligible. Application and Selection Process: All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

This recruitment will be used to fill current vacant positions and may be used to create a list of competitive candidates to fill possible future vacancies. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in skill tests operating equipment and customer service assessment, and a panel interview. To apply, submit a: Complete Application Optional Resume (will be reviewed if submitted) Optional Cover Letter (will be reviewed if submitted) Note: Additional documents won't be considered during minimum qualification screening.

Application materials will be screened for clarity, completeness, and alignment with the experience, qualifications, knowledge, and skills essential for this role to determine which candidates may be invited to participate in a skills test and panel interview. Who to Contact: For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact jalydavis@kingcounty.gov. Discover More About the Solid Waste Division: Visit our website at Solid Waste Division and check us out at Facebook| Twitter| Instagram| YouTube

Discover More About DNRP: Visit our website, explore an interactive map of our recent accomplishments and check us out at Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and Keeping King County Green News. Sign up for Job Alerts to be notified of additional career opportunities with King County. Select the Natural Resources category for DNRP opportunities and explore other categories of interest.

Are you ready to make a difference. Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play. Application Process If you are interested in pursuing this position and supporting King County's vision for unified, equitable, and high-performing government, please follow the application instructions carefully.

Provide us with your work history as applicable, ensuring that you provide details that highlight your ability to fulfill the requirements for this position. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, or you would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process, please contact Jalynn Davis at jalydavis@kingcounty.gov. King County's Vision, Mission, and ACTIVATE Values unite us

King County serves residents with a relentless sense of urgency, delivering on commitments with transparency and accountability. We are action-oriented, creative problem solvers who collaborate across roles, engage directly with communities, and challenge the status quo to achieve meaningful impact. As a unified team, we uphold high ethical and stewardship standards, embrace change, stay curious, and continuously improve.

Across all interactions, we listen first, act quickly, and stay aligned as a team to earn and sustain public trust. Learn more about our Vision, Mission, and ACTIVATE Values here and visit our Why work at King County page here. King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on sex, race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religious affiliation, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age except by minimum age and retirement provisions, pregnancy, status as a family caregiver, parental status, marital status, military status or status as a veteran who was honorably discharged or who was discharged solely as a result of the person's sexual orientation or gender identity or expression, citizenship or immigration status, genetic information, or other protected class.

However, to the extent that distinction or differential treatment on the basis of citizenship or immigration status is authorized by either federal or state law, regulation, or government contract, it is not an unfair practice. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation.


What King County (Washington) employees say

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About King County

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers. Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play. Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce.

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1852

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