Landfill Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s increasingly eco-conscious world, the focus on landfill technicians has never been more pronounced.

As our society becomes more aware of the environmental impact of waste, the call for skilled individuals who can manage, navigate, and protect our landfill systems grows louder.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a landfill technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of waste management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable landfill technician job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Landfill Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Landfill Technicians carry out various operational duties to ensure that waste management systems function properly, and are responsible for maintaining health, safety, and environmental standards at landfill sites.

A Landfill Technician has the following duties and responsibilities:

• Monitor and control waste disposal operations
• Assist in directing waste trucks for correct disposal and dumping
• Operate equipment such as compactors, bulldozers, or trucks as necessary
• Inspect and maintain gas collection and control systems
• Perform regular checks and maintenance of equipment to ensure safety and efficiency
• Ensure compliance with waste acceptance criteria and disposal guidelines
• Conduct routine site inspections to ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations
• Assist in the mitigation of odors and dust
• Handle record-keeping and compile reports on waste volume, equipment usage, and other operational activities
• Assist in emergency response situations, such as chemical leaks or spills

 

Landfill Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Landfill Technician to monitor and maintain the operations of our landfill site.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for monitoring waste disposal, ensuring the safety of the landfill area, and conducting regular inspections to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

The Landfill Technician should have a keen interest in environmental conservation and public health, with a strong understanding of waste management processes and systems.

 

Responsibilities

• Monitor waste disposal operations to ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines
• Perform regular inspections of landfill site to ensure safety and sanitary conditions
• Operate and maintain landfill machinery and equipment
• Record and report data related to the volume and type of waste disposed
• Assist in the implementation of landfill operational procedures
• Conduct regular maintenance checks on equipment and machinery
• Respond to any incidents or emergencies in accordance with established protocols
• Assist in the training of new staff
• Ensure the landfill site is compliant with environmental standards and regulations

 

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Previous experience in waste management or a related field preferred
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and standards
• Ability to operate and maintain heavy machinery
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Physically fit and able to work in various weather conditions
• Valid driver’s license

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Landfill Technician
• Work Environment: Outdoor work environment with exposure to various weather conditions. Physical labor is required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Landfill Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $34,000 minimum to $49,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Landfill Technician Do?

Landfill Technicians primarily work in waste management and are responsible for the daily operations and management of landfills.

Their main task is to ensure that the waste material brought to the landfill is properly sorted, treated, and disposed of in accordance with the regulations set by environmental laws.

They are often tasked with operating heavy machinery and vehicles to compact and move waste around the landfill site.

Landfill Technicians are also responsible for performing regular inspections and maintenance of landfill equipment and facilities.

Additionally, they are required to monitor and control the gases produced by the landfill, often collecting and converting these gases into renewable energy sources.

They also monitor the groundwater around the landfill site to ensure it is not contaminated.

Part of their job is to keep records of the type and volume of waste received and disposed of at the landfill site.

Lastly, Landfill Technicians may also be involved in community outreach and education programs, explaining the importance of proper waste disposal and recycling to the public.

 

Landfill Technician Qualifications and Skills

A qualified landfill technician should possess a range of technical skills, practical knowledge, and soft skills, such as:

• An understanding of waste management and environmental regulations to ensure that all operations comply with legal standards.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify issues related to landfill operations, including equipment malfunctions and safety hazards.
• Physical stamina and strength as the job often involves manual labor, such as lifting heavy equipment and materials.
• Technical skills to operate and maintain machinery and equipment used in landfill operations.
• Communication skills to effectively coordinate with team members, report incidents, and communicate with regulatory bodies or the public.
• Attention to detail for monitoring waste disposal, identifying potential environmental hazards, and maintaining accurate records of landfill operations.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and report generation.
• Safety consciousness to adhere to and implement safety protocols, ensuring the wellbeing of oneself and others in the landfill site.

 

Landfill Technician Experience Requirements

Entry-level Landfill Technicians often require a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience, typically gained through internships, part-time roles, or in a similar environmental or waste management role.

Some entry-level roles may also accept candidates who have completed relevant training or certification programs in lieu of direct experience.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are usually more familiar with landfill operations, safety protocols, and environmental regulations.

They may have worked in roles such as Waste Management Technician, Environmental Technician, or similar positions.

Landfill Technicians with more than 5 years of experience may have developed a more comprehensive understanding of landfill management, including machinery operation, site maintenance, and waste treatment processes.

They are likely to have supervisory experience and may be ready to undertake managerial roles within the waste management sector.

In addition to job experience, some roles may require Landfill Technicians to possess specific licenses or certifications, such as a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certification.

 

Landfill Technician Education and Training Requirements

Landfill Technicians typically require a high school diploma or a general education degree (GED) as a minimum educational requirement.

Some employers prefer technicians with an associate degree in environmental science, waste management, or a related field.

A Landfill Technician should also have a solid understanding of landfill operations, waste disposal methods, and environmental regulations.

This knowledge can be gained on the job, through vocational training, or through relevant coursework.

Certifications such as the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) certification or the Certified Landfill Operator credential can be beneficial for job prospects.

These certifications demonstrate a higher level of knowledge and proficiency in landfill operations.

Continued education is essential for Landfill Technicians, as it helps them keep up to date with new waste disposal methods and changes in environmental regulations.

Some technicians may also pursue advanced degrees to gain specialized knowledge and increase their career opportunities.

Most importantly, Landfill Technicians need to have practical experience.

This can be gained through internships, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training.

The hands-on experience is critical for understanding the daily operations of a landfill and handling any issues that may arise.

 

Landfill Technician Salary Expectations

A Landfill Technician earns an average salary of $35,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on factors such as level of experience, certifications, location, and the company they work for.

 

Landfill Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Landfill Technician need?

Landfill Technicians should be physically fit as the job often involves heavy lifting and operation of machinery.

They should possess a technical aptitude to understand and handle landfill equipment.

Problem-solving skills, an understanding of safety procedures, and knowledge about environmental regulations and waste management principles are also important.

 

Do Landfill Technicians need a degree?

Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is enough to get started as a Landfill Technician.

However, a degree or certification in environmental science or a related field may be beneficial.

Employers often value on-the-job experience and training more than formal education in this role.

 

What should you look for in a Landfill Technician resume?

You should look for previous work experience in waste management or a related field.

Certifications such as Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) or a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) can be advantageous.

Skills related to equipment operation, maintenance, and repair should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Landfill Technician?

A good Landfill Technician is diligent, detail-oriented, and committed to safety and environmental regulations.

They should be able to work well in a team and communicate effectively with colleagues and superiors.

Flexibility is important as they might have to work in varying weather conditions and sometimes during odd hours.

 

Is it difficult to hire Landfill Technicians?

Hiring for this role might be challenging given the physical demands of the job and the need for specific skills and certifications.

However, providing competitive wages, good working conditions, and opportunities for training and advancement can attract qualified applicants.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed some light on what it truly means to be a landfill technician.

And guess what?

It’s not just about waste management.

It’s about cultivating a sustainable future, one piece of garbage at a time.

With our definitive landfill technician job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step forward.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your ideal companion in creating pinpoint accurate listings or tailoring your resume to absolute precision.

Remember:

Every piece of waste managed is a step towards a cleaner environment.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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