Manager – Solid Waste Operations

About the role

The Collier County Solid & Hazardous Waste Management Division is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to serve as Manager – Solid Waste Operations. This position oversees the operation of the County's landfill, transfer stations, recycling centers, scale house operations, and deep injection well systems. The Manager plays a key role in ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant operations while providing leadership in budgeting, capital planning, contract administration, regulatory compliance, and strategic initiatives supporting the County's integrated solid waste management system.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee the operation of the landfill, transfer station, recycling center, scale house, and deep injection well facilities.
• Lead operational planning, budgeting, staffing, resource allocation, and the development of short- and long-range strategic plans.
• Establish division goals and objectives while supervising, mentoring, and evaluating management, supervisory, and operational staff.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local environmental regulations, permit requirements, and County policies.
• Maintain adherence to environmental standards, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements through monitoring facility operations.
• Carefully coordinate inspections, maintain compliance documentation and reporting, and interpret applicable regulations and technical requirements.
• Develop, administer, and oversee operational and professional service contracts.
• Review contractor performance and ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
• Prepare and review executive summaries, reports, and procurement documents.
• Evaluate operational performance and implement process improvements.
• Lead strategic initiatives involving landfill operations, recycling programs, yard waste, C&D materials, organics, sludge management, and artificial reef programs.
• Support long-term planning and capital improvement projects.
• Collaborate with County departments, regulatory agencies, consultants, contractors, and community partners.
• Represent the Division in meetings with local, state, and federal agencies.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with public and private stakeholders.

Requirements

• Possess a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Solid Waste Management, Environmental Protection, or closely related field accompanied by at least five (5) years of related experience.
• Candidates without a degree should have four (4) additional years of related experience.
• Have five (5) years of experience in management/supervision, budgeting, environmental compliance/permitting, and/or landfill operations.
• Possess or be willing to obtain the Manager of Landfill Operations (MOLO) Certification within twelve (12) months from the date of hire.
• Possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License with any applicable endorsement(s) to drive a county vehicle as provided in CMA 5805.