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Waste Management Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Solid Waste Manager - Remote

Henrico, VA

$105K - $107K/yr

Review and comment on process flow diagrams, waste flow maps, P&IDs, and room layouts affecting waste management Process Group Coordination * Serve as liaison with Process Design/Engineering to ...

MGR ENGINEERING 2

Newport News, VA ยท On-site

$142K - $178K/yr

Knowledge of advanced waste management techniques. Experience in radioactive waste management. Prior experience leading technical teams and interfacing with other engineering groups, construction ...

Knowledge of advanced waste management techniques. Experience in radioactive waste management. Prior experience leading technical teams and interfacing with other engineering groups, construction ...

$142K - $178K/yr

Knowledge of advanced waste management techniques. Experience in radioactive waste management. Prior experience leading technical teams and interfacing with other engineering groups, construction ...

$142K - $178K/yr

Knowledge of advanced waste management techniques. Experience in radioactive waste management. Prior experience leading technical teams and interfacing with other engineering groups, construction ...

Knowledge of advanced waste management techniques. Experience in radioactive waste management. Prior experience leading technical teams and interfacing with other engineering groups, construction ...

Eng II - Environ

Radford, VA ยท On-site

$72K - $122K/yr

... Engineer role in compliance efforts, including central accumulation area, satellite accuulation area, and overall hazardous/non-hazardous waste management aspects. * Preparing and submitting permit ...

$108K - $139K/yr

... waste management for a smarter, more sustainable world. All that we're missing is you. About The ... Professional Engineer (PE) license in the United States is highly desired. * Six Sigma ...

Staff Engineer

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$113K/yr

Staff Engineer Location: Richmond, VA Position Type: Direct Hire Salary: Around $113,000 Position ... waste management. * Collaborate with fuel procurement teams during contract renewals, reviewing ...

Compliance Audits * Hazardous Waste Management * Environmental Reporting * Source Monitoring ... Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Engineering * Valid U.S. Driver's License #J-18808-Ljbffr

New

The Waste & Recycling Division is focused on providing solid waste engineering, environmental, and ... The Senior Engineer will manage all project responsibilities of multi-discipline teams. The ...

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Showing results 1-20

Waste Management Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$102K

$164.1K

How much do waste management engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for waste management engineer in Virginia is $102,017.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,200.00 and $127,900.00 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 job categories do people searching Waste Management Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

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

Infographic showing various Waste Management Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,017 per year, or $49 per hour.

Solid Waste Manager - Internal Applicants Only

City of Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, VA โ€ข On-site

$84K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description The Solid Waste Management Division of the Public Works Department in the City of Roanoke, Virginia is seeking an energetic team-player with strong communication skills to lead the City's customer-focused solid waste management programs serving approximately 42,000 households and small businesses. The successful candidate will manage a robust, fully-automated collection process for its solid waste and recycling programs as well as an innovative downtown collection system. The Solid Waste Manager oversees a diverse division of fifty-five employees with an annual operating budget of $3 million plus.

This position directs and coordinates the operation of the division of solid waste management. Responsibilities entail accountability based on measurable cost effective results for the substance, efficiency, productivity and quality of activities performed by the division. Analyzes resource utilization and identifies potential areas of improvement by implementing new improved solid waste collection and disposal systems.

Works closely with vendors, residents, governmental officials and other representatives of the solid waste industry to provide effective services. Bachelor's degree from four-year college or university with a major in business, public administration, environmental management, engineering or related field is preferred. 5 years of increasing supervisory responsibilities.

Considerable experience in a management position, preferably coordinating or supervising solid waste collection, recycling, code enforcement, recycling and disposition or combination of experience and education. The City of Roanoke is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA/M/F/Disability Employer. To elevate the performance of the organization, we are committed to respecting, celebrating, and embracing the collective mixture of differences and similarities between our employees as a rich tapestry.

Our behaviors will demonstrate open communication, and we will seek opportunities to learn, recognizing and rewarding actions that promote acceptance while suspending judgment. By doing this, we will foster an inclusive, open work environment that delivers excellent service and creates a more vibrant and inviting community. This is an exempt position.

Examples of Duties SUMMARY Directs and coordinates the operation of the division of solid waste management. Responsibilities include customer service, contract management, budget preparation, public meetings, council presentations, training, accountability based on measurable cost effective results for the substance, efficiency, productivity and quality of activities performed by the division. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.

Other duties may be assigned. Plans, coordinates, and directs all facets of solid waste management for the City Oversees projects in process and evaluates completed projects for compliance with laws, regulations, and ordinances Analyzes resource utilization and identifies potential areas of improvement by implementing new improved solid waste collection and disposal systems Assists in the development of specifications for purchase of solid waste vehicles and equipment Contract, development, management with oversight from the Purchasing Division to ensure that the contract meet the legal requirements of the City of Roanoke & the Commonwealth of Virginia. Determines standards and equipment necessary to ensure operational efficiency Conducts cost/benefit analysis of current and proposed solid waste collection systems Works closely with vendors, residents, governmental officials and other representatives of the solid waste industry to provide effective services Advises/communicate with the public on issues concerning solid waste programs Prepares division budget and administers same Prepares reports, investigates complaints and assists with media relations as needed Develops and implements policies on matters pertaining to solid waste activities and safety Monitors the work of staff for conformance with city and division policies and practices and provides assistance when problems arise Attends meetings and provides technical assistance covering solid waste programs Prepares long-range plans for the division that include financial analysis and project review Administers City refuse collection, bulk collection, brush collection, commercial collection, compactor program, call center, code inspections and recycling programs Prepares ordinance revisions SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Supervises a total of 50-60 employees in the Residential/Commercial/Bulk and Recycling Units.

Is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of the division. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Typical Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE Bachelor's degree from four-year college or university with a major in business, public administration, environmental management, engineering or related field is preferred. 5 years of increasing supervisory responsibilities. Considerable experience in a management position, preferably coordinating or supervising solid waste collection, recycling, code enforcement, recycling and disposition or combination of experience and education.

Supplemental Information LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents. Ability to respond to inquiries or complaints from citizens, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community orally and in writing. Ability to effectively present information to management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

Ability to negotiate and resolve conflicts. REASONING ABILITY Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret and deal with an extensive variety of variables.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear.

The employee frequently is required to walk and sit. The employee is occasionally required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include ability to adjust focus. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. This is a job description and not an individualized position description.

A job description defines the general character and scope of duties and responsibilities of all positions in a job classification, but it is not intended to describe and does not necessarily list the essential job functions for a given position in a classification.