Waste Management Technician

Job Summary:

The Waste Management Technician is responsible for collecting, sorting, storing, and disposing of all facility-generated waste materials in compliance with environmental regulations and company policies. This includes hazardous and non-hazardous waste streams, recyclables, scrap material, and general refuse. Working across a 530,000 sq. ft. industrial manufacturing site, this role supports operational efficiency and environmental compliance by ensuring safe, timely, and proper waste handling procedures are followed.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collect, segregate, and transport waste materials from designated production, warehouse, office, and common areas.
• Monitor and empty bins for general trash, scrap, recyclable materials (e.g., cardboard, plastics, metals), and hazardous waste according to disposal schedules.
• Operate waste compactors, balers, and forklifts/pallet jacks to move waste safely within the facility.
• Label, package, and store hazardous and regulated waste according to company and legal standards (EPA, RCRA, DOT).
• Maintain detailed records of waste volumes, manifests, pickup schedules, and disposal methods.
• Assist with inspections, audits, and reporting related to waste disposal compliance.
• Ensure waste accumulation areas are clean, organized, and in compliance with safety and environmental policies.
• Support environmental programs, including spill prevention and emergency response.
• Coordinate pickups with third-party waste disposal vendors and recycling partners.
• Monitor and report container capacity, material types, and contamination issues.
• Suggest improvements in waste reduction, recycling, and sustainability initiatives.
• Communicate with production and maintenance teams to stay updated on changing waste generation needs.
• Industrial environment with exposure to dust, noise, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical equipment.
• May involve handling materials classified under DOT/EPA regulations.
• PPE is required at all times (gloves, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, etc.)

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience in waste management, environmental services, or industrial operations.
• Experience in a large-scale manufacturing or warehouse environment is preferred.
• Understanding of hazardous and non-hazardous waste handling, labeling, and storage.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to safety and detail.
• Ability to read and follow written procedures and safety guidelines (e.g., MSDS, SOPs).
• Comfortable working with basic software or handheld devices for tracking and documentation.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. regularly and perform manual labor.
• Frequent walking, standing, pushing, pulling, bending, and operating equipment.
• Work may include indoor/outdoor conditions, exposure to waste materials, and occasional confined spaces

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.

Certifications (Preferred or Required):

• OSHA 10/30 certification.
• HAZWOPER (40-hour) or equivalent hazardous waste handling training.
• Forklift certification preferred (or ability to obtain upon hire).