Landfill Operations Manager

About the Role

Are you a hands-on leader who thrives both in the cab/on the hill and managing operations in the office? We are looking for a Landfill Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day site operations, drive a strong safety culture, and manage our site resources efficiently.

This role is ideal for a field-tested leader who balances operational execution—working directly alongside operators on the hill—with administrative, financial, and regulatory management in the office.

Key Responsibilities

Field & Operations Leadership (~70-80% On-Site)

• Daily Site Management: Direct daily landfill operations to maximize compaction, soil usage, airspace efficiency, and equipment utilization.
• Hands-On Leadership: Work directly on the hill alongside operators; operate heavy equipment (compactor, bulldozer, excavator, haul truck, loader) as necessary to maintain pace and train team members.
• Safety & Compliance: Conduct regular operator observations, lead safety meetings, enforce PPE standards, and ensure full compliance with environmental permits, local, state, and federal waste regulations.
• Asset Protection: Oversee equipment maintenance routines, track site conditions, and respond promptly to operational changes or weather-related issues.

Administrative & People Management (~20-30% Office)

• Team Leadership: Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate site personnel. Practice progressive discipline and foster an engaging, productive workplace.
• Performance & Productivity: Establish productivity benchmarks, track operational KPIs, and conduct annual employee performance evaluations.
• Incidents & Documentation: Investigate any accidents or safety incidents promptly, completing all required reporting and corrective action plans.
• Regulatory & Administrative Compliance: Review construction/permit drawings, keep operating records up to date, and communicate regularly with regional leadership.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: 3+ years of operational experience in the waste management or landfill industry.
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Management, Environmental Science, Engineering, or an equivalent combination of industry experience and education.
• Equipment Proficiency: Proven ability to operate heavy equipment safely (dump truck, bulldozer, compactor, track hoe, loader, backhoe).
• Certifications: SWANA Manager of Landfill Operations (MOLO) certification (or ability to acquire upon hire).
• Leadership Skills: Strong communication, conflict resolution, and team-building capabilities.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Working knowledge of non-hazardous solid waste regulations, site safety standards, and environmental compliance.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Work Environment: Expect 70–80% of your time outdoors on the hill, exposed to varying weather conditions, dust, noise, and rugged terrain.
• Physical Demands: Ability to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, sit, stand, walk, and lift up to 20 lbs.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $85,000 – $100,000 per year (commensurate with experience)
• Bonus: 20% Short-Term Incentive Plan (STIP) annual target bonus based on site safety, operational efficiency, and performance metrics.
• Benefits Package: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement savings options, and paid time off.

Job ID:

R39833