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Waste Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Waste Connections

Equipment Operator

Halfway, OR · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

R360 Environmental Solutions , a Waste Connections company, is the nation's leading environmental ... We are currently hiring a Equipment Operator to work at our Halfway Facility in Carlsbad, NM. In ...

Waste Connections

AM Forklift Operator

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$27/hr

Yes Qualified candidates must have Forklift operating experience. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ... Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive ...

Wastequip

Machine Operator

Millersburg, OR · On-site

$21 - $22.22/hr

Operating a Press Brake and/or Shear * Turns handwheels to adjust rake (angle) and pressure of ... We are the waste industry's only All-in-One solutions provider - from carts and containers to ...

Wastequip

Machine Operator

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$21 - $22.22/hr

Operating a Press Brake and/or Shear * Turns handwheels to adjust rake (angle) and pressure of ... We are the waste industry's only All-in-One solutions provider - from carts and containers to ...

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Waste Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do waste operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for waste operator in Oregon is $21.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a waste operator?

Waste Operators are professionals responsible for managing, processing, and disposing of waste materials in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. Their duties typically include operating machinery at waste treatment facilities, sorting recyclable materials, and ensuring that hazardous waste is handled according to regulations. Waste Operators also monitor equipment, maintain records, and sometimes assist with environmental compliance. This role is essential in reducing environmental impact and supporting public health and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a waste operator?

To thrive as a Waste Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, knowledge of safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with waste management equipment, forklift operation, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good communication skills help Waste Operators work efficiently and safely with team members. These competencies ensure proper handling, processing, and disposal of waste materials while maintaining safety and environmental standards.

What are some common challenges waste operators face in their daily work, and how can they prepare for them?

Waste Operators often encounter challenges such as managing hazardous materials safely, operating heavy machinery efficiently, and maintaining compliance with strict environmental regulations. Staying up-to-date with safety training and proper personal protective equipment is essential. Additionally, Waste Operators frequently work as part of a team, so strong communication and attention to detail are valuable for ensuring safe and efficient operations. Adapting to changing waste disposal technologies and reporting requirements can also be part of the role.

What is the difference between Waste Operator vs Recycling Technician?

AspectWaste OperatorRecycling Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety trainingHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentLandfills, waste collection sitesRecycling plants, sorting facilities
Industry UsageWaste management companies, municipalitiesRecycling centers, environmental services
Job FocusCollecting, transporting, and disposing wasteSorting, processing recyclable materials

Waste Operators and Recycling Technicians often share similar credentials and work environments, but their roles differ in focus. Waste Operators handle waste collection and disposal, while Recycling Technicians focus on sorting and processing recyclable materials. Both roles are essential in waste management and environmental sustainability.

Waste Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waste Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,129 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Solid Waste Truck/Equipment Operator

Roseburg, OR • On-site

Douglas County, OR
See more jobs at Douglas County, ORexternal

$24.39 - $31.17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Salary: $24.39 - $31.17 Hourly
Location : Solid Waste - Multiple Locations, OR
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2026-00061
Department: Solid Waste
Opening Date: 07/21/2026
Closing Date: 10/1/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
THE POSITION
Douglas County Solid Waste
Full time position available with competitive full-family benefit package.
PERS/OPSRP retirement and availability of deferred compensation retirement savings.
Onsite (Courthouse complex) childcare available at a discounted employee rate through Roseburg Professional Childcare (Fowler St. location only). Availability is subject to center waitlist.
This position is eligible for representation by the TEAMSTERS LOCAL UNION No. 223
Job Summary:This position operates heavy equipment used to support maintenance of solid waste landfills and transfer sites; perform routine maintenance on equipment; perform manual tasks.
Essential Functions:
This is not an exhaustive or all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, duties or functions associated with the job.
  • Operate large diesel truck and four-wheel trailer to transport boxes from County transfer sites to the main landfill. Empty boxes and return to transfer site. Load and safely transport equipment and materials. Perform pre-trip inspections.
  • Operate medium to heavy sized equipment in the main landfill, such as: compactor, heavy dozer, self propelled scrapers, front end loader, tub grinder, knuckleboom loader, and other related landfill equipment used in maintaining solid waste landfills and transfer sites.
  • Perform repair on assigned equipment; include minor maintenance and servicing, etc.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS
SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:
This is not an exhaustive or all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, duties or functions associated with the job.
Any equivalent combination of education and experience, which demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities required, will be considered. however, the following is preferred:
  • Two years experience in the operation of heavy road maintenance equipment.
Knowledge of: Considerable knowledge of equipment, materials, practices and procedures used in road maintenance or landfill and transfer site operations; considerable knowledge of minor repair of equipment; thorough knowledge of safety procedures; reasonable knowledge of the traffic laws and safety rules governing operations of motor vehicles and equipment on public roadsSkill in: Performing specialized work; performing maintenance on equipment; safe operation of vehicles, equipment and tools used in area of responsibility; safe operation of equipment under adverse conditions. Ability to: Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms; estimate time and materials and manage time efficiently; make decisions independently in accordance with established policies and use initiative and judgment in carrying out tasks and responsibilities; utilize problem identification and resolution techniques; remain calm and use good judgment during confrontational or high pressure situations; courteously meet and deal effectively with other employees, contractors, vendors and the public.
Required:
  • Oregon Class A commercial drivers license with tank and air brake endorsements.
  • Regular and consistent attendance

SCREENING & EVALUATION
While not part of initial applicant screening, the finalist for this position may be required to pass a criminal history background check as part of a contingent offer of employment.
Employment is contingent upon a pre-employment drug screen. Presence of non-prescribed drugs, including marijuana, on drug screen results will result in disqualification pursuant to the County's drug and alcohol policy. To determine if physically qualified to perform the essential functions, employment offer is conditional upon satisfactory results of a post-offer medical and hearing exam conducted at county expense.
To learn more about this position, please review the
Questions? Contact Human Resources by e-mail at or ph: (541) 440-4405
Douglas County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.Douglas County Statement on Equal Employment Opportunity
If you require any special assistance at any point during the application or selection process and would like to request an accommodation due to a disability, please e-mail a description of your request to Human Resources.
Douglas County offers a competitive benefit package for employees working in positions budgeted to work 30 or more hours per week. The benefit package includes medical, dental, vision, a confidential employee assistance program, deferred compensation account options, and more. Information on county-sponsored benefits can be found at https://www.douglascountyor.gov/256/Employee-Benefits. Vacation and sick leave accrual policies are described in . Benefit options and leave accruals may vary if position includes membership in a collective bargaining unit (union).
Douglas County is a PERS employer. After meeting specific pre-defined service criteria, eligible employees join the (PERS) for retirement benefits.
Please contact the Human Resources Department with questions regarding the benefits associated with this position.
ph: (541) 440-4405

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