Landfill Operations Manager

GFL Environmental Inc.; Jacksonville (FL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

GFL Environmental Inc. is seeking a Landfill Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day site operations, drive safety culture, and manage resources on-site in Jacksonville, FL. You will lead field operations, supervise operators, and coordinate administrative tasks with the office.

The role requires 3+ years in waste management, a relevant degree, and proven ability to operate heavy equipment. You will ensure regulatory compliance, safety, and performance metrics while developing a strong team

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Field & Operations Leadership (~70-80% On-Site) — Direct daily landfill operations to maximize efficiency and equipment utilization.
• Hands-On Leadership — Work directly on the hill alongside operators; operate heavy equipment as necessary to maintain pace and train team members.
• Safety & Compliance — Conduct operator observations, lead safety meetings, enforce PPE standards, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Asset Protection — Oversee equipment maintenance routines, track site conditions, and respond to operational changes.

Skills

Operations leadership

Safety management

Heavy equipment operation

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Management, Environmental Science, Engineering

Tools

SWANA MOLO certification

Job description

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.