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Waste Management Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Hazardous Waste Personnel

Denver, CO

$22.75 - $27.50/hr

... Engineering, Health, Manufacturing, Public Safety, Consulting, and Transportation) for the federal ... Follows specific guidance and drafts SOPs for management review. * Samples receipt and data entry ...

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Waste Management Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$32.6K

$108.2K

$174K

How much do waste management engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for waste management engineer in Colorado is $108,201.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,900.00 and $135,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How much do waste management engineers make?

Waste management engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals in this field often hold a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related discipline and may pursue certifications to enhance their earning potential.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Waste Management Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,201 per year, or $52 per hour.

Senior Solid Waste Engineer - Permitting & Remediation Lead

Trihydro Corporation

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

$80 - $95/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

A leading engineering consulting firm based in Fort Collins is seeking a highly motivated Solid Waste Engineer to manage and execute projects related to solid waste management and environmental compliance. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of industry experience, a Bachelor's degree in civil or environmental engineering, and a PE license. Responsibilities include managing project scope, budget, and regulatory compliance. This full-time position offers a salary range between $80,000 and $95,000, alongside a benefits package including comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans. #J-18808-Ljbffr