SALARY GUIDE

Earn a Sustainable Future: Waste Management Worker Salaries

From entry‑level collection to senior site supervision, see how your earnings can grow with experience and expertise.

Salary Overview

Compare salaries across experience levels and countries

Entry Level
$35,000
0‑2 years experience
Mid‑Career
$55,000
5‑10 years experience
Senior
$75,000
15+ years experience
Top 10%
$100,000
High performers
Average Salary by Country
United States$45,000
Canada$48,000
United Kingdom£30,000
AustraliaA$55,000
Germany€38,000
India₹250,000

40‑Year Career Salary Projection

See how your earning potential grows throughout your career

0y10y20y30y40y$40k$60kYears of Experience

Top Paying Industries

Compare average salaries across sectors

Salary by Industry
Municipal Waste Services$44,000
Private Waste Collection$46,500
Recycling & Materials Recovery$48,000
Hazardous Waste Management$60,000
Construction Debris Disposal$52,000

Salary by Specialization

Explore earning potential in different areas

Landfill Operator
$48,000
Average annual salary
Recycling Coordinator
$50,000
Average annual salary
Hazardous Waste Technician
$62,000
Average annual salary
Waste Collection Driver
$45,000
Average annual salary
Compliance & Safety Officer
$58,000
Average annual salary
Key Factors Affecting Salary
  • Geographic location and cost‑of‑living
  • Union membership and collective bargaining
  • Years of experience and seniority
  • Relevant certifications and training
  • Overtime and shift differentials

Certification Impact

Boost your earning potential with professional certifications

Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)
+$5,000 to $7,000 per year
Salary increase potential
SWANA Certified Waste Management Professional
+$3,000 to $5,000 per year
Salary increase potential
OSHA HAZWOPER Certification
+$2,000 per year
Salary increase potential

Global Market Insights

Understand the worldwide salary landscape

Highest Paying
Switzerland
Fastest Growing
United Arab Emirates
Most Stable
United States
Job Market Outlook

The waste management sector is projected to grow 5‑7% annually over the next decade, driven by stricter environmental regulations, increased recycling initiatives, and expanding urban populations. This steady demand creates ample opportunities for workers to advance, especially those who obtain specialized certifications and embrace emerging technologies such as automated collection and waste‑to‑energy systems.

Ready to Build Your Waste Management Worker Resume?

Start with our AI‑powered resume builder and land your dream role faster.

Get Started

More Salary Guides

Check out Resumly's Free AI Tools