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Landfill Solid Waste Operator Salary in the United States

How much does a Landfill Solid Waste Operator make in the United States?

As of October 01, 2026, the average salary for a Landfill Solid Waste Operator in the United States is $49,667 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $24.

However, a Landfill Solid Waste Operator's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $68,912
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $42,694 to $59,741
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $36,346
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Landfill Solid Waste Operator Salaries

A Landfill Solid Waste Operator's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Landfill Solid Waste Operator Salaries Vary from State to State?

Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Landfill Solid Waste Operators. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $54,991.
  • California: $54,783.
  • Massachusetts: $54,053.

Top Paying Cities for Landfill Solid Waste Operators

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $62,645
  • San Francisco: $61,959
  • Oakland: $60,653

Landfill Solid Waste Operator Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Landfill Solid Waste Operator salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $54,299. While startup companies pay approximate $46,086.

Landfill Solid Waste Operator Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $46,086
Growth Stage 51~500 $48,696
Established 501~5000 $52,463
Enterprise 5000+ $54,299

Landfill Solid Waste Operator Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Landfill Solid Waste Operator's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on October 01, 2026
$42,694
Average $49,667/year
$59,741
$3,558
Average $4,139/month
$4,978
$821
Average $955/week
$1,149
$21
Average $24/hour
$29
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $59,741 $4,978 $1,149 $29
Average $49,667 $4,139 $955 $24
25th Percentile $42,694 $3,558 $821 $21

Landfill Solid Waste Operator Salary Growth & Career Path

Landfill Solid Waste Operator

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Landfill Solid Waste Operator, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Landfill Solid Waste Manager $97,698 97%
Sanitation Department Supervisor $82,995 67%

Most common benefits for Landfill Solid Waste Operator

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Landfill Solid Waste Operator

Here are companies hiring for Landfill Solid Waste Operator and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about Landfill Solid Waste Operator

1. Where can a Landfill Solid Waste Operator earn the most?

A Landfill Solid Waste Operator's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Landfill Solid Waste Operator earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Landfill Solid Waste Operator is $62,645.

2. What is the highest pay for Landfill Solid Waste Operator?

The highest pay for Landfill Solid Waste Operator is $68,912.

3. What is the lowest pay for Landfill Solid Waste Operator?

The lowest pay for Landfill Solid Waste Operator is $36,346.

4. What are the responsibilities of Landfill Solid Waste Operator?

Operates heavy equipment to place, compact, and cover solid waste at a landfill facility in compliance with operational and environmental standards. Operates bulldozers, compactors, loaders, and other heavy equipment to spread and compact incoming waste. Applies daily and intermediate cover material to the working face in accordance with permit requirements. Directs incoming vehicles to designated dumping areas and inspects loads for prohibited or hazardous materials. Performs routine inspections and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment. Maintains site drainage, access roads, and erosion controls to support safe operations. Follows established safety and environmental procedures. Requires a high school diploma. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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