Why Landfill Operators Are in High Demand: A Career Path Worth Digging Into

Imagine operating powerful machines that help manage millions of tons of waste, contributing to a cleaner and more efficient world, all while getting paid well in the process. As cities grow and sustainability continues to become a global focus, landfill operators are more essential than ever, and PTS is here to help prepare you for this rewarding career. Let’s explore why landfill operators are in such high demand, what the job entails, and how our heavy equipment training school can equip you with the skills needed to launch a long-lasting career in this growing field.

A Closer Look at Landfill Operation

Landfill operators manage, maintain, and operate heavy equipment at landfill sites to ensure safer and more efficient waste disposal. Often, landfill operators will operate equipment like bulldozers, compactors, loaders, and graders, and must follow important environmental and safety regulations. Workers must also maintain access roads and drainage systems.

As cities grow, you can expect increased residential and commercial waste. With rising waste volumes, landfills are also expected to meet strict environmental guidelines in order to prevent groundwater contamination or other environmental hazards.

Landfills are common in municipal and infrastructure development, and require skilled operators. With demand across multiple industries, such as municipal waste, private landfills, environmental remediation companies, construction and demolition, and more, landfill operators are employed all year-round, offering stable employment with consistent demand.

Landfill equipment operators can earn competitive salaries. While wages can vary by location, entry-level workers can earn an average of $60,810 per year, while top earners make $97,672 per year. Operators can also progress to various other positions, like site supervisor or operations manager. In addition, landfill operators fulfill meaningful work, contributing to sustainability and community health.

Are you ready to start your journey toward this rewarding career? Let’s see how PTS can prepare you for success.

Take the First Step Toward Your Future with PTS

PTS provides hands-on, intensive training with various machines on terrain similar to landfill sites. In our Heavy Equipment Operator 1 course, you’ll learn the skills required to find employment as a skid steer, wheel loader, compactor, backhoe, or articulated off-road dump truck operator. You’ll also learn earthmoving, soils, safety, and preventative maintenance.

Our follow-up course, Heavy Equipment Operator 2, will teach you how to operate bulldozers, scrapers, excavators, and motor graders, as well as how to perform excavation math, interpret civil drawings, and more. You will learn important OSHA-compliant safety protocols that will be important when handling waste in landfills. At PTS, you’ll receive the skills you need to be credentialed and find a job soon after graduation. Our entire team is dedicated to helping you succeed.

Landfill operators are critical to waste management and environmental sustainability, and there’s never been a better time to enter the field. Are you ready to take the first step toward a stable, in-demand career? Connect with PTS today to learn more about our heavy equipment training programs and how we can help you build a better future.