Director Landfill Operations

Position Summary

The Director of Landfill Operations is responsible for the overall management, compliance, safety, and performance of landfill operations. This role provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure environmentally sound, efficient, and compliant landfill operations while meeting business objectives, regulatory requirements, and community expectations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Provide leadership and oversight of all landfill operations, including daily site activities, equipment utilization, and personnel management

Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local environmental regulations (EPA, state environmental agencies, permits, consent orders)

Oversee landfill airspace management, cell construction, cover placement, leachate management, and gas collection systems

Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and best practices to improve efficiency, safety, and environmental performance

Manage operating budgets, capital expenditures, and cost controls for landfill operations

Lead, coach, and develop site managers, supervisors, and operational staff

Ensure adherence to all safety policies, conduct safety audits, and promote a strong safety culture

Coordinate with engineering, environmental, and regulatory consultants as needed

Prepare and review operational reports, compliance documentation, and performance metrics

Support long-term planning including site life optimization, expansion projects, and closure/post-closure planning

Act as a liaison with regulators, local governments, vendors, and community stakeholders

Respond to incidents, regulatory inspections, and emergency situations as required

Supervisory Responsibilities

Directly manages landfill managers and/or operations supervisors

Indirectly oversees all landfill operational staff

Responsible for hiring, performance management, training, and disciplinary actions

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive landfill or solid waste operations experience

Strong working knowledge of landfill regulations, permitting, and compliance requirements

Proven leadership and people management experience

Strong budgeting, analytical, and problem-solving skills

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills