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Waste Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be ...

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be ...

Job Title Solid Waste Engineer Job Type Full-time Location Roseville, CA 95747 US San Luis Obispo, CA US Signal Hill, CA US (Primary) Category Engineering Minimum Education Required Bachelor's Degree ...

Job Title Solid Waste Engineer Job Type Full-time Location Roseville, CA 95747 US San Luis Obispo, CA US Signal Hill, CA US (Primary) Category Engineering Minimum Education Required Bachelor's Degree ...

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be ...

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be ...

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be ...

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be ...

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be ...

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be ...

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be ...

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Waste Engineer information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$100.4K

$135.7K

How much do waste engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for waste engineer in California is $100,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Waste Engineer vs Environmental Engineer?

AspectWaste EngineerEnvironmental Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental, Civil, or Chemical Engineering; certifications like Waste Management CertificationBachelor's in Environmental, Civil, or Chemical Engineering; often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, waste treatment facilities, landfillsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial sites
Industry UsageFocuses on waste management, disposal, and recycling processesBroader environmental issues including pollution control, sustainability

Waste Engineers primarily focus on waste management and disposal processes, working in waste treatment facilities and landfills. Environmental Engineers have a broader scope, addressing pollution control, environmental compliance, and sustainability initiatives. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their daily tasks and industry focus differ.

Are wastewater engineers in demand?

Wastewater engineers are in demand due to ongoing needs for water treatment and environmental protection. They often work for government agencies or engineering firms, requiring knowledge of environmental regulations and skills in design, analysis, and project management. Job prospects are generally strong in regions with aging infrastructure and environmental initiatives.

How much does a waste engineer make?

The average waste engineer salary in the United States ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions typically start around $50,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn over $100,000 annually.

What does a waste engineer do?

A waste engineer designs, develops, and implements systems for waste management and environmental protection. They analyze waste processes, ensure compliance with regulations, and often use tools like CAD software and environmental testing methods. The role may require certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) and involves working in industrial or environmental settings.

What cities in California are hiring for Waste Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Waste Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Waste Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,420 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Solid Waste Engineer

Essel

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Essel is looking for a Mid to Senior Level Solid Waste Engineer to manage and work on diverse solid waste projects. In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved with public and private clients in marketing, client management, and project production.
Responsibilities include project management, business development, and staff development. Project responsibility will have a primary focus on solid waste management, including landfill gas, landfills and landfill infrastructure, composting, and other projects, which may require design, engineering, permitting, construction and/or operations support. You can be hybrid out of our San Diego, Long Beach, Pleasanton, or Sacramento office. Remote work might also be considered if you live in California.
  • Apply intensive and diversified knowledge of engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related fields.
  • Prepare engineering calculations, drawings, reports, and permit applications.
  • Make decisions independently on engineering or scientific problems and methods, plans and coordinate work, and represent us at meetings and conferences.
  • Field work performed by high/driving in varied terrain and weather will be required, including but not limited to, surveys/data gathering, CQA liner installations, inspections, etc.
  • Office-based tasks including: CAD drafting, mathematical calculations, report writing, creating site plans and facility diagrams, and permit applications.
  • Business development including: proposal preparation, meeting with clients, and attending industry-related conferences/trade shows.
  • Receive technical guidance on unusual or complex problems and supervisory approval on proposed plans or projects.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering field required.
  • Minimum of 6 years of relevant working knowledge/demonstrated consulting experience with projects specific to the solid waste industry, including:
    • Landfill gas management, air compliance, and landfill design and permitting is required.
  • E.I.T. required and California P.E (civil) registration or ability to obtain within 6 months preferred.
  • Valid driver's license with a driving record in good standing required.

Benefits
  • Medical, dental, vision, 401K, and employer-funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Student Debt Employer Contribution Program
  • Paid holidays and PTO