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Waste Management Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$500 - $950/wk

Waste Management Specialist SEASON: Austral Summer (October - April) LOCATION : Palmer Station ... operating experience Previous management or supervisory experience EDUCATION: College degree (2 ...

Waste Management Spec Senior

Erwin, TN · On-site

$86K - $136K/yr

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Requisition Number: 55781 Waste Management Specialist Sr Position Overview: This position is ...

$500 - $800/wk

Waste Management Specialist SEASON: Austral Summer (October - February) LOCATION : South Pole ... operating experience Valid Driver's License and Passport valid for six months after contract end ...

Zero Waste Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

About the Role The Sustainability Operator plays a key role in ensuring that daily waste-management procedures are executed correctly across the LA facility. This role supports the operational ...

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Waste Management Operator information

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$14

$25

$39

How much do waste management operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste management operator in the United States is $25.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Waste Management Operator, you need a solid understanding of waste handling procedures, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with heavy machinery, computerized tracking systems, and regulatory compliance software is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills help operators work safely and efficiently in team settings. These skills ensure proper waste processing, compliance with environmental regulations, and the safety of both workers and the community.

What is a waste management operator?

Waste Management Operators are professionals responsible for the collection, transportation, processing, and disposal of waste materials. They ensure that waste is managed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with environmental regulations. Their duties may include operating specialized vehicles and equipment, segregating recyclable materials, and monitoring landfill or recycling facility operations. Waste Management Operators play a crucial role in protecting public health and the environment by minimizing pollution and promoting sustainable waste practices.

What is the difference between Waste Management Operator vs Waste Collection Driver?

AspectWaste Management OperatorWaste Collection Driver
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), safety trainingCDL, safety training
Work EnvironmentLandfills, recycling centers, waste processing facilitiesResidential, commercial waste pickup routes
Employer & IndustryWaste management companies, municipalitiesWaste collection companies, municipalities

Waste Management Operators typically work in waste processing facilities and landfills, focusing on waste sorting and disposal. Waste Collection Drivers primarily operate trucks to collect waste from residential and commercial sites. Both roles require CDL licenses and safety training, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by waste management operators, and how can they be addressed?

Waste Management Operators often encounter challenges such as handling hazardous materials safely, maintaining equipment, and adhering to strict environmental regulations. To address these challenges, operators receive thorough safety training, use personal protective equipment, and follow detailed protocols for waste sorting and disposal. Regular equipment maintenance and teamwork with supervisors and environmental specialists help ensure operations run smoothly and safely. Staying updated on industry regulations and best practices is also essential for long-term success in the role.
More about Waste Management Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Waste Management Operator jobs? Cities with the most Waste Management Operator job openings:
What states have the most Waste Management Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Waste Management Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Waste Management Operator job openings in the United States 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 $53,224 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Waste Management Specialist (Summer 2026-2027) - South Pole

Gana-A'Yoo, Limited - Antarctic Program

Littleton, CO • On-site

$700 - $950/wk

Temporary

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

POSITION: Waste Management SpecialistSEASON: Austral Summer (Oct - Feb)LOCATION: South Pole StationSECTOR/DEPT: Six Mile, LLC AntarcticaESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Coordinate with Hazardous and Solid Waste Managers and South Pole Operations Manager to set priority and schedule for the seasonCoordinate with other departments to ensure efficient pick up and processing of wasteAttend weekly meetings associated with positionConduct community Waste Briefs or other informational sessions Troubleshoot any issues that arise and elevate them as neededPick up hazardous waste and associated paperwork from various departments on station, assuring quality of information on Hazardous Waste Identification Sheet (HWIS)Process waste accordingly. This includes marking, weighing, and storing the drums or items into a shipping container. Updating the HWIS form with any required information and determining disposition of solid wastePerform certain classification qualitative testing on items (pH testing, flash point testing, etc.)Assist with Hazardous Waste Lab packing under direction of Hazardous Waste ManagerSafe operation of skid steerQuality check all shipping containers and correct discrepancies immediatelyFollow all JHAs, and update them if neededAssume Spill Lead role: Respond to all spills safety and appropriately Clean up or coordinate clean up of all spills and write spill reportsRegular use of drum dollies, cargo straps, banding, shovels, pallet jacks, power tools and other toolsPosition requires regular physical activity, including bending, consistently lifting and carrying, reaching and grippingAble to participate in a team unit composed of diverse personalitiesDisplays self-motivation in physically challenging and atypical work environment; position is comprised of approximately 70% outdoor tasking Able to maintain flexibility and positive attitude in a dynamic, fast-paced work settingPerforms duties in support of Operations Division metrics (as provided by supervisor)Supports the achievement of ASC metrics, whether metrics are directly or indirectly, effected by this position's work activitiesComplies with all ASC Environmental Health & Safety, and Quality Assurance, requirements and goals. Provides documentation to these divisions as necessary to ensure adequate and legal documentationWorks to achieve ASC goals and contractual commitmentsResponsible for maintaining a safe workplace and ensuring that safety is the highest priority in the workplacePerform other duties as requiredReports to Hazardous Waste Manager and Solid Waste ManagerREQUIREMENTS:Previous Antarctic deploymentHigh school diploma or equivalentProficient computer skills, including Excel and OutlookAble to lift 50 pounds consistentlyFamiliarity with power tools and machineryEquipment operating experienceValid Driver's License and Passport valid for six months after contract endPhysically able to be active for 9 hours dailyMust be able to lift the safety regulation maximum Must pass physical qualification assessmentAble to deploy to Antarctica for length of contractPREFERREDPrevious USAP Waste Management experience1 year of Hazardous Materials shipping/characterization or reporting experience ' OR ' 2 years of Environmental remediation.1 quarter of college General ChemistryCollege degree in Chemistry or Environmental ScienceOSHA HazWOPER 40-Hour, currentEDUCATION: High School diploma or equivalentCERTIFICATIONS AND/OR LICENSING REQUIREMENTS: Valid Driver's License and passport valid for six months after end of contract.OTHER: US citizenship or permanent residency requiredGana-A'Yoo, Limited (GYL), an Alaska Native Corporation, offers services with ongoing contracts in many facility types, such as, military training facilities, emergency management centers and temporary field sites. GYL in partnership with ESS Support Services, a Division of Compass Group, will provide operational management support. ESS Support Services is the market leader in providing remote camp and catering services to clients, wherever their location, no matter how extreme the environment may be. Services extend across North America and include such diverse facilities as drilling, mining, construction, pipeline and logging camps, offshore, governmental agencies and others. Payroll and benefits are supported by Compass Group.We are committed to ensuring that our online application process provides an equal employment opportunity to all job seekers. If you require assistance in the application process, please contact us at: GYLOpportunities@usap.govWe are an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers applicants without regard to race, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. EEO is the Law poster.