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Transfer Station Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... NTMWD Transfer Stations. Responsible for the operation of equipment used to compact and convey solid waste into transfer trucks. Occasionally will assist Scale Operators to check in commercial ...

$17.50 - $23/hr

Peters is looking for a motivated and safety-conscious Transfer Station Loader Operator to join our Solid Waste Division. This position supports the daily operations of our new, state-of-the-art ...

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Transfer Station Operator information

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How much do transfer station operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for transfer station operator in the United States is $24.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some 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.

What are Transfer Station Operators?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Transfer Station Operator, and why are they important?

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.
More about Transfer Station Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Transfer Station Operator jobs? Cities with the most Transfer Station Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Transfer Station Operator jobs? The most popular types of Transfer Station Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Transfer Station Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Transfer Station Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Transfer Station Operator jobs? For Transfer Station Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Transfer Station Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,641 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Equipment Operator - Transfer Station

Equipment Operator - Transfer Station

Town of Duxbury

Duxbury, MA

$24.98 - $32.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE: Equipment Operator - Transfer Station

DEPARTMENT: Department of Public Works

LOCATION: Transfer Station

FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt, Full -Time, Benefit Eligible

POSITION GRADE: Grade 4

RATE RANGE: Pay range is $24.98 - $32.40 per hour, in eight steps

CONTRACT:  AFSCMECouncil 93, Local 1700

WORK SCHEDULE: Wed.-Sun., 40 hours per week, plus participates in town-wide snow and ice removal operations, required

BENEFITS: 75% town/25% employee paid: healthinsurance; Blue Cross and Blue Shield PPO & HMO plans

  • Definedbenefit pension
  • 12Paid Holidays
  • VacationPay
  • PersonalTime Off Days
  • SickLeave
  • Clothingand Cleaning Allowance
  • DentalInsurance
  • VisionInsurance
  • PetInsurance
  • LifeInsurance
  • Shortand Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Medicaland dependent care flexible spending account

1.  Nature of Work:  Performs skilled work within the Department of Public Works as determined and assigned by a Manager or Superintendent in the Public Works Department.

2.  Supervision Received:  Receives instructions and work specifications from Foreman, Operations Manager or DPW Director and communicates to fellow workers Works under the supervision of an employee of a higher grade who assigns work, reviews performance for skill and efficiency, and assists in cases of difficulty.

3.  Supervisory Responsibility:  Supervises temporary or seasonal employees as assigned.

4.  Confidentiality:  Employee has regular access to confidential information of the department.  Confidentiality must be maintained with regard to this information in accordance with Department Policy and the Public Records Act.

5.  Accountability:  Consequences or errors, missed deadlines or poor judgment may include adverse public relations, monetary loss, legal repercussions, labor/material costs, personal injury, jeopardize programs, and danger to public health/safety.

6.  Judgment:  Guidelines may be given verbally, or through administrative or organizational policies, or directives.  Employee is expected to weigh efficiency and relative priorities in performing tasks.

7.  Complexity:  The work consists of the practical application of a variety of concepts, practices and specialized techniques relating to custodial and maintenance work.

8.  Nature and Purpose of Public Contact:  Employee interacts frequently with Town employees and the public.  Customer service skills are required involving courtesy, tact, and diplomacy.

9.  Essential Functions:  The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various type of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statement of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or logical assignment to the position.

1.      Uses extensive knowledge and skill for repair, maintenance and modification various work assignments.

2.      Suggests modifications to equipment for safer and more efficient operation, constructs and installs as directed.

3.      Maintains records and reports, in the absence of the Foreman.

4.      Performs similar tasks as assigned, including functions of those in a lower classification.

5.      Operation of mechanical equipment requiring specialized skills and licenses such as a backhoe, loader, large trucks, tractors, etc.

6.      Works under limited supervision; performs specialized tasks.

7.      Hauls trash to off-site location using Class A license.

8.      Participates in town-wide snow and ice removal operations.

9.      Responsible for processing of financial transactions via credit card and check from the public

10.  Trains new employees in performing assigned duties.

10.  Recommended Minimum Qualification:

Education and Experience:  High School diploma or G.E.D. with three (3) years of experience in operation of mechanical equipment assigned to the division such as a road grader, backhoe, and trucks to perform maintenance, repair and tasks assigned, or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential function of the position.

Special Requirements:  Valid Massachusetts Driver's License, Hydraulics 2B, and Class B CDL.

11.  Knowledge, Abilities and Skill:

1.      Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods under varying climatic conditions.

2.      Ability to understand and apply verbal and written instructions.

3.      Knowledge of the operation of necessary equipment and tools used in the performance of assigned work.

4.      Ability to deal effectively and tactfully with fellow employees, supervisors, and the general public.

12.  Work Environment:  The nature of duties may involve continuous presence of unpleasant or irritating elements, such as noise, odors, chemicals, fumes, dust, smoke, heat, cold, oil, dirt, or grease.  Work is performed indoors and outdoors regardless of weather conditions.

13.  Occupational Risks:  Duties regularly present potential risks of injuries from improper exposure that could result in loss of time from work.  Examples of injuries include burns from chemical, muscular strains, falls from heights in excess of three (3) feet, and potential exposure to communicable diseases.  Special safety precautions, training, or protective clothing such as gowns, coats, gloves, glasses, hats, or boots may be required.

14.  Physical and Mental Requirements:  The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential function of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the position's essential functions.

Physical Demands:  Work requires regular physical strength and effort daily, such as, frequently lifting heavy objects up to 50 lbs., carrying objects, occasionally 100 lbs., and stacking them. In addition, pulling, pushing, standing, or walking for the full workday may be involved.

15.  Motor Skills:  Duties involve close hand and eye coordination and physical dexterity.  Manipulation and motor control may require extreme accuracy.

16.  Visual Demands:  Visual demands include reading documents for general understanding, routinely reviewing non-written materials such as instrumentation for analytical purposes and the need for color vision.

The Town of Duxbury provides its employees (contingent uponemployment status) with a robust benefits package which includes: Medical,Dental, Vision, Retirement Saving Plans (457b), a Pension Plan, Life Insurance,12+ Paid Holidays, Personal Time, Vacation Time, Sick-Time, Pet Insurance, Longand Short-Term Disability Insurance, EAP, FSA, Employee Discounts, and more.Employment Type: FULL_TIME