Refuse collectors can earn more than $40,000 annually.
The rubbish removal industry offers many job opportunities ranging from hazardous waste removal to residential garbage collection. Waste management companies also employ engineers who design landfills and monitor air quality. The job market continues to expand as communities grow, and as more landfill space is sought when old landfills close.
Landfill Manager
A landfill operations manager runs the day-to-day operations of a landfill by controlling operational costs and monitoring compliance with environmental laws. The manager is also responsible for efficient turnaround times for trucks entering and leaving the landfill. A bachelor of arts degree is required to qualify as a manager. According to 2010 job postings, the position pays up to $150,000 per year.
Hazardous Waste Specialist
A hazardous waste specialist generally works for a private company to transport chemicals and other hazardous materials from clients’ facilities to disposal venues. Careful recording of inventory and compliance with all safety regulations are required. The median salary as of 2010 was $15.90 per hour, according to Careers State University.
Medical Waste Handler
Safe collection and disposal of medical waste are performed by handlers employed by private companies. The job is similar to hazardous waste specialists, but collections occur at medical facilities, and disposals are made at separate facilities designed for medical material. A high school diploma and plant environment training are required. The average annual salary in 2010 was $30,000.
Landfill Geologist
A landfill geologist, or environmental geologist, conducts project research for landfills. In addition, a major portion of the job is monitoring air quality compliance with local and federal regulations. The geologist also must see that proper permits are obtained for solid waste and hazardous materials projects. The geologist also is responsible for gas collection and treatment systems. A bachelor of arts degree is required for employment. The annual salary is about $43,000, according to 2010 job postings.
Industrial Waste Analyst
As of 2010 as much as $6,000 per month could be earned by an industrial waste analyst in California. An analyst evaluates the impact of hazardous chemicals on local wastewater and storm water systems, develops procedures for municipal pretreatment programs and supervises pollution prevent programs. The analyst also collects and inspects samplings from industrial companies. An analyst must have a bachelor of arts degree in chemistry.
Recycled Materials Sorter
Recycled materials sorters earn slightly more than minimum wage at about $9 per hour, according to 2010 job postings. Sorters work at a conveyor belt and separate yard debris, plastics, metals and other recyclable material. A high school diploma is usually required for the position.
Refuse Collector
Refuse collectors, also called rubbish or trash collectors, travel an assigned route to collect residential and light commercial garbage. Two-person teams divide driving and pickup duties along the route. Collectors physically pick up containers to dump garbage into the truck or operate a robotic arm to lift the containers. A college education is not required. In 2010, the average annual salary for a refuse collector was $43,000.
Tags: 2010 postings, annual salary, arts degree, bachelor arts, bachelor arts degree, compliance with, hazardous waste
