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Waste Management Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Engineer

Pleasanton, CA ยท On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved ... engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related ...

Solid Waste Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved ... engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related ...

Solid Waste Engineer

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved ... engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related ...

Solid Waste Engineer

Pleasanton, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved ... engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related ...

Solid Waste Engineer

Pleasanton, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved ... engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related ...

Solid Waste Engineer

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved ... engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related ...

Solid Waste Engineer

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved ... engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related ...

Solid Waste Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved ... engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related ...

Solid Waste Engineer

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role you will help manage projects, developing proposals and will also be directly involved ... engineering and scientific principles and practices in solid waste assignment areas and related ...

$78K - $103K/yr

Bachelor's degree in engineering, environmental science, chemistry, or related scientific ... management (hazardous waste, universal wastes, polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs], asbestos ...

Our team is a diverse and nimble group that manages Apple's retail stores, workplaces, and ... Engineering, Sustainability, or related field. Five or more years of experience building and ...

Solid Waste Engineer

Roseville, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead and independently manage civil and environmental engineering projects related to solid waste facilities, landfills and transfer stations, environmental permitting to maintain regulatory ...

Solid Waste Engineer

Roseville, CA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead and independently manage civil and environmental engineering projects related to solid waste facilities, landfills and transfer stations, environmental permitting to maintain regulatory ...

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Showing results 1-20

Waste Management Engineer information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$101.6K

$163.3K

How much do waste management engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for waste management engineer in California is $101,552.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,800.00 and $127,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a waste management engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Waste Management Engineer, you need a solid background in environmental engineering, waste treatment processes, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in environmental, civil, or chemical engineering. Familiarity with waste management software, GIS tools, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or relevant environmental credentials are often required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills set outstanding candidates apart in this field. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable waste handling and compliance with environmental standards.

What is a waste management engineer?

Waste Management Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and oversee systems for handling, processing, and disposing of waste materials safely and efficiently. Their work helps minimize the environmental impact of waste and ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. They may work with solid waste, hazardous materials, recycling processes, and landfill management, often collaborating with other engineers, environmental scientists, and government agencies.

What are some common challenges waste management engineers face when implementing new waste reduction initiatives?

Waste Management Engineers often encounter challenges such as resistance to change from stakeholders, budget constraints, and navigating complex regulatory requirements when introducing new waste reduction strategies. They must balance environmental goals with operational feasibility, working closely with facility managers, local authorities, and sometimes the public to ensure initiatives are both effective and compliant. Strong communication and project management skills are essential to address concerns, secure buy-in, and monitor the progress of implemented solutions.

What is the difference between Waste Management Engineer vs Environmental Engineer?

AspectWaste Management EngineerEnvironmental Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field; certifications like PE or CEMBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentWaste treatment facilities, landfills, recycling plantsResearch labs, consulting firms, government agencies, field sites
Industry UsageFocus on waste collection, treatment, disposal, and recyclingBroader environmental issues including pollution control, sustainability, and resource management

Waste Management Engineers primarily focus on waste treatment, disposal, and recycling processes within waste facilities. Environmental Engineers have a broader scope, addressing pollution control, environmental compliance, and sustainability initiatives. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in related industries, but their core responsibilities and work environments differ.

What does a waste management engineer do?

A waste management engineer focuses on the process of disposing of or treating waste materials. In this role, your duties may include finding ways to limit environmental impact with recycling, designing an efficient method for waste disposal, and addressing problems related to pollution, contamination, and environmental regulations. You may also specialize in an area of waste management. For example, some waste management engineers design or improve systems for the treatment of wastewater while other professionals may focus on the processes and procedures for the safe disposal of toxic or hazardous materials. You can find employment with a municipal or state agency, a consulting firm, a manufacturing company, a nonprofit agency, or a recycling company.

What are popular job titles related to Waste Management Engineer jobs in California?

For Waste Management Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Waste Management Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Waste Management Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Waste Management Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Waste Management Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Waste Management Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,552 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Waste Management Operations Manager

County of Yolo

Woodland, CA โ€ข On-site

$119K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

DESCRIPTION The County of Yolo is recruiting to fill one (1) regular, full-time position in the class of Waste Management Operations Manager in the Integrated Waste Division at the Department of Community Services. Visit the Yolo County Integrated Waste Management webpages to learn more about the division. The Position Under general direction, the Waste Management Operations Manager leads and manages the operations and maintenance of the Yolo County Central Landfill and Esparto Convenience Center, overseeing landfill maintenance, landfill gas collection and power generation, liquid waste and organics recovery facilities, transfer station operations, and other critical waste management infrastructure while ensuring regulatory compliance.

This role serves as the maintenance leader for the County's integrated waste management facilities, maintenance staff, managing contractors, maintenance programs, and operational budgets, coordinating with other County divisions/departments such as Fleets and General Services, and supporting safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible landfill and waste management operations. The ideal candidate is an experienced operations manager with a strong background in solid waste management, landfill operations, environmental services, industrial maintenance, or public works operations. They are a collaborative and effective leader who enjoys developing employees, improving operational efficiency, and building strong working relationships across all levels of an organization.

The successful candidate understands the importance of balancing regulatory compliance, environmental responsibility, fiscal stewardship, and exceptional customer service while managing complex operational systems. They have demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary teams, overseeing maintenance and operational programs, administering contracts and budgets, and implementing process improvements that enhance safety, efficiency, and service delivery. This individual possesses extensive knowledge of landfill operations, waste management systems, and environmental regulations, along with strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.

They communicate effectively with employees, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public, exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced operational environment, and are committed to fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and workplace safety. How to Apply Interested applicants should submit a County of Yolo online employment application with attached verification of education / licensure documents and complete responses to the required supplemental questions, by the listed closing date. For additional important and detailed information, see the Application & Selection Process section of this job announcement.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Use the link below to open the full class specification for this position and learn more about the essential functions, knowledge, and abilities of the job. Waste Management Operations Manager MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS The minimum qualifications required for a candidate to proceed in the selection process are as follows: Education: Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major work in business or public administration, safety and industrial engineering, environmental science, planning and/or management, human resources management, or other closely related field; Experience: Four (4) years of full-time, progressively responsible experience supporting solid waste management operations such as: maintenance of energy facility, organics program, liquid and/or solid non-hazardous or hazardous waste, non-hazardous or hazardous materials programs; and/or waste facilities management performing a broad range of operational and maintenance planning activities; and/or technical and administrative duties such as program analysis and budgeting, contract administration, or another technical environmental management function. Substitution: Two (2) years of directly related experience as described in the experience pattern may be substituted for up to two (2) years of education.

One year of experience is the equivalent of thirty (30) semester of forty five (45) quarter units. License: Positions in this classification require incumbents to possess and maintain a valid California driver's license, Class C or higher, to carry out job related duties. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical or mental disability may request a reasonable accommodation.

Additional Certification Requirements: Successful completion of 40-hours of Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) training and Powered Industrial Truck Operator (forklift) training is required within the first three (3) months of employment. Successful completion of Heavy Equipment Operator training may be required if needed to carry out job related duties. All certifications must be maintained as required.

Documents verifying education and licensure, must be submitted / uploaded / attached with the online application. See the Application & Selection Process section of this job announcement for more details. APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS Application Process It is highly recommended that you print this job bulletin for future reference.

Application information must be current, concise, related to the requirements in this job announcement. Your application should highlight all relevant education, training, and experience, and clearly indicate how you meet the minimum qualifications for the position as of the date of your submission. See the Employment Standards section of this job announcement for a list of minimum qualifications.

Incomplete applications will be disqualified. A resume may be included with your application; however, it WILL NOT substitute for the information requested on the application. Ensure that relevant information to be considered in the screening for minimum qualifications step is included within the online application system fields.

Additionally, verification of education, licensure, and responses to the supplemental questions must be included with your submission, as detailed below. Attachments may be submitted through the following listed methods: By uploading / attaching to the online application By e-mail to jobs@yolocounty.gov By fax to (530) 666-8049 By hand-delivery to 625 Court Street, Room 101, Woodland, CA 95695. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM

Please do not send originals. Copies of the required documents are acceptable. Any submitted documents will not be returned.

Yolo County Human Resources is not responsible for the untimely delivery of materials sent via U.S. / specialized mail or County interoffice mail. Verification of Education: Acceptable forms of educational documentation are official / unofficial transcripts or copy of diploma that list the student's name, institution name, field of study, and date the degree was awarded

For recent graduates who have not received proof of their degree, a letter from the registrar's office stating that all requirements for graduation have been met and listing the field of study will be sufficient proof of graduation. Applicants who possess a degree or completed coursework that is not from an accredited college or university, must submit one of the following: A written statement from a U.S. accredited university or college that states that the applicant is qualified for entrance to a program of graduate studies for which a degree in a related field is required

An evaluation of the applicant's degree and coursework equivalency by a private organization that provides foreign credential evaluation services. The evaluation must include a comparison of comparable U.S. courses for content, credit, and grade

All foreign transcripts or diplomas must be in English. If the institution does not provide these documents in English, the applicant will need to provide a translation which has been done by a professional agency. The County of Yolo will accept education as equivalent to U.S

accreditation from institutions that are listed as members of the International Association of Universities (IAU). You may check for your school by visiting the IAU web site (https://www.iau-aiu.net/content/institutions). Please Note: Foreign language documents must include a precise word-for-word English translation of all foreign language documents

It is the responsibility of each applicant to prove to the satisfaction of the County that the applicant meets the specific requirements listed on the job announcement for each specific examination. The following is a list of private organizations that provide foreign credential evaluation services. Fees range from $50 to $400 per document; processing times vary from 5-20 business days.

For further information, please contact the organization(s). The County of Yolo does not endorse these business entities; this list has been developed for informational purposes only. Educational Records Evaluation Service 601 University Ave., Suite 127, Sacramento, CA 95825 (916) 921-0790 www.eres.com Foreign Education Document Service P.O

Box 151739, San Diego, CA 92175 (619) 265-5810 www.documentservice.org Center for Applied Research, Evaluation & Education, Inc. P.O. Box 18358, Anaheim, CA 92817 (714) 237-9272 www.iescaree.com Global Services Associates, Inc

409 North Pacific Coast Highway, # 393, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (310) 828-5709 www.globaleval.org International Education Research Foundation Credentials Evaluation Service P.O. Box 3665, Culver City, CA 90231 (310) 258-9451 www.ierf.org Supplemental Questions: Supplemental questions are designed to elicit specific information regarding a candidate's experience, education, and training. Responses should be consistent with the information on your application and are subject to verification

If a job included responsibilities applicable to several questions, separate the different functions of the job to answer all the questions completely. Resumes or referral to the application or other questionnaire responses will not be accepted in lieu of completing each question. If you have no experience, write "no experience" for the appropriate question.

Selection Process The following is a tentative schedule of steps that will occur as part of the selection process. The selection process steps, and all listed dates, may change with or without notice. Screen for Minimum Qualifications Screen for Best Qualified, if applicable Department Selection Interviews Reference Checks Conditional Job Offer Pending Pre-Employment Exams Drug & Alcohol Screen Department of Justice LiveScan Confirmed Job Offer Screening for Best Qualified: If applicable, the applicant's education, training, experience, and responses to the supplemental questions will be evaluated to determine those applicants that are best qualified.

Contact Information: For questions about the position or about employment with the County, please contact Human Resources by e-mail at jobs@yolocounty.gov or by phone at (530) 666-8055. Equal Employment Opportunity: It is the policy of the County of Yolo to provide equal employment opportunity for all qualified persons, regardless of sex, sexual orientation, race, color, ancestry, religious creed, national origin, physical disability (Including HIV and AIDS), mental disability, medical condition (cancer or genetic characteristics/information), age (40 or over), marital status, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, or any other classification protected by federal, state or local laws or ordinance. The County will comply with all of its obligations under State and Federal laws regarding the provision of reasonable accommodations to applicants

Reasonable testing arrangements may be made to accommodate applicants with disabilities or who are unable to attend a scheduled test due to religious reasons in accordance with the Fair Employment and Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please call the County of Yolo Human Resources Office at (530) 666-8055 at least five (5) business days prior to the scheduled test date to request accommodation. Documentation from a medical doctor, rehabilitation counselor, or other qualified professional will be required.

Yolo County, a place where YOU belong. The average person spends one third of their life at work. Why not spend that time in an environment where you are seen for who you are, celebrated for the diversity you bring, and valued for your potential to contribute to an innovative and dynamic workforce.

Yolo County is committed to creating and sustaining an inclusive and equitable workplace which supports and values our diverse community. Come join us. This is where YOU belong.