What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director, Solid Waste position at Deschutes County?
Summary
ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:
Deschutes County Solid Waste keeps our communities clean, safe, and healthy by managing the county’s solid waste from drop-off to final disposal. We operate Knott Landfill in Bend and four rural transfer stations where residents, contractors, and haulers bring materials for consolidation and transport to Knott Landfill. Our team runs these facilities to the highest operating and regulatory standards, with a constant focus on safety, environmental protection, and customer service.ABOUT THE COUNTY:
We know where you choose to live, work and play matters. Deschutes County is one of the largest employers in Central Oregon and the largest municipal government in the region. Our dedicated and passionate workforce of more than 1,250 employees provide County services in a number of departments, divisions, and offices.
Located in the heart of Central Oregon, between the towering Cascade Mountain Range to the west and the high desert plateau to the east, Deschutes County is the outdoor recreation capital of Oregon. We enjoy a renowned quality of life, with big-city opportunities and small-town neighborhoods.
We hope you’ll consider joining our talented team.
ABOUT THE JOB:
We’re looking for a dynamic leader with demonstrated success in managing a complex municipal solid waste operation. Candidates are expected to offer a rich background in all aspects of the operation, including waste steam diversion, latest trends in recyclable materials management, knowledge of landfill operations and compliance, management of franchise collection agreements, solid waste capital planning and implementation, building positive relationships with facility neighbors and both franchise and direct service customers, and state Department of Environmental Quality rules and regulations.
Success in this role depends on strong partnerships. The ideal candidate will have the skills to maintain and grow regional and statewide relationships that help us meet rapid population growth and evolving community needs.
We value innovation and nimble problem solving. The Director will set clear direction, empower initiative, and guide thoughtful, strategic change. A strong record of organizational leadership is essential, including delivering measurable results, navigating political structures and processes, fostering mutual accountability, and building a healthy, positive workplace culture.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversees and directs activities of the Deschutes County Solid Waste Department through effective planning, staff, program and performance management, and resource allocation.
- Manages priorities, identifies critical issues, and resolves conflicts.
- Assures the overall integrity and effectiveness of Solid Waste programs, and compliance with regulations.
What You Will Bring:
Knowledge of or experience with:
- State and Federal laws and regulations governing solid waste/landfill operations.
- Methods, practices, standards, and specifications for compliance to solid waste regulations.
- Principles and methods for maintenance of solid waste collection and recycling facilities.
- Federal and state safety rules and regulations, including Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ), and OSHA standards for transfer station and landfill environments.
Skill in:
- Analyzing Solid Waste issues, evaluating alternatives, and developing solutions based on findings.
- Interpreting and applying public health and safety principles and practices in a regulatory environment.
- Interpreting and applying technical standards and procedures, federal and state rules and regulations, and County policies and procedures governing maintenance of solid waste facilities.
- This posting is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities, but rather constitutes a general definition of the position's scope and function.
Review the full job description by clicking HERE.
Compensation
$11,365.01 to $15,230.21 per month for a 173.33 hour work month. Excellent County benefit package when eligible. This position is available immediately.
BENEFITS:
Our robust health plan is offered at a minimal cost of $95 per month for employee only or $116 per month for employee plus dependents, which includes an innovative on-site clinic, pharmacy, and wellness and wellbeing services. Additionally, we include life insurance, retirement (PERS), generous paid time-off (14-18 hours/month to start, pro-rated for part-time), holidays, and professional development opportunities. Please click HERE (Download PDF reader) for full benefit details.
This position is opened until filled with first review of applications on January 2, 2026.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business or Public Administration, or related field;
- AND five (5) years of solid waste or public works program management experience;
- OR any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills and knowledge to perform the essential functions of the job.
Necessary Special Requirements
Driving is a requirement for this position. Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Oregon driver's license within 30 days of hire date. The employment offer will be contingent upon presentation of an acceptable and verifiable driver's license, pre-employment screening for criminal history, driving history, and controlled substances (NOTE: Positive test results for marijuana use may result in rescission of a contingent offer of employment). This screening must be completed with satisfactory findings in order for a formal offer of employment to be extended.
Deschutes County is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We strive to build an inclusive environment that encourages, supports, and represents the diverse voices and needs of our communities. All are encouraged to apply - we welcome diverse perspectives and experiences.
If you are a veteran and would like to apply for Veterans' Preference, please click HERE for information.
Excellent County benefit package when eligible.
Deschutes County offers eligible employees a comprehensive health care package that covers medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage at a minimal cost of $95 per month for employee only or $116 per month for employee plus dependents. Coverage becomes effective the first of the month following 1 month of employment. Included in the health care package is the Deschutes Onsite Clinic (DOC), which provides a wide range of health, wellness, and primary care services to employees and their dependents. The DOC offers convenient hours and no out-of-pocket costs to patients. The DOC Pharmacy is a full service pharmacy available to employees and dependents to have their prescriptions filled at a discounted co-pay. In addition to the health care package, Deschutes County provides a generous and comprehensive benefits program to eligible employees.
Employer paid benefit offerings include:
Deschutes County offers eligible employees a comprehensive health care package that covers medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage at a minimal cost of $95 per month for employee only or $116 per month for employee plus dependents. Coverage becomes effective the first of the month following 1 month of employment. Included in the health care package is the Deschutes Onsite Clinic (DOC), which provides a wide range of health, wellness, and primary care services to employees and their dependents. The DOC offers convenient hours and no out-of-pocket costs to patients. The DOC Pharmacy is a full service pharmacy available to employees and dependents to have their prescriptions filled at a discounted co-pay. In addition to the health care package, Deschutes County provides a generous and comprehensive benefits program to eligible employees.
Employer paid benefit offerings include:
- Life Insurance for employee and dependents
- Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
- Long-term Disability Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Retirement Program through Oregon PERS
- Time Management Leave
- 125 Flexible Spending Program
- 457 Deferred Compensation Program
- Supplemental Life and Accident Insurance
Salary : $11,365 - $15,230
