Disposal Operations Management Trainee - Scranton, PA

Scranton, PA, USA|

Job Overview

Benefits

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life insurance

short-term disability

401(k) matching

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Personal Days

stock purchase plan

Job Description

Waste Management Inc. (WM) is a leading provider of comprehensive waste management environmental services in North America. With a commitment to sustainable practices, innovation, and community engagement, WM operates various waste disposal facilities, including landfills, recycling centers, and transfer stations. WM is widely recognized for its dedication to safety, environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence. The company prioritizes the development and growth of its employees, offering structured training programs and clear career pathways within the waste management industry. As part of its developmental initiatives, WM offers the Disposal Operations Management Trainee (DOMT) position, designed to cultivate future leaders and managers in landfill operations.

The Disposal Operations Management Trainee (DOMT) role is a comprehensive developmental training program spanning up to 18 months. This position is integral in training individuals to become proficient in various facets of landfill disposal operations while preparing them for managerial responsibilities. Under the close supervision and guidance of frontline WM managers such as Area Directors of Disposal Operations, Landfill District Managers, and Operations Managers, the trainee will gain hands-on experience in operational management within a landfill setting.

The primary mentor for this role is typically the Landfill District Manager or the Area Director of Disposal Operations at the assigned training location. The structured training curriculum, which includes foundational, intermediate, and advanced training levels, is complemented by real-world projects and experience. The DOMT will engage in activities that develop expertise in safety protocols, environmental protection, financial management, personnel oversight, heavy equipment operation, community relations, construction and engineering, gas and leachate management, and waste stream sales and pricing.

This training program is specifically crafted to develop skills and knowledge required for progression to Operations Manager and District Manager positions, with potential pathways to Director-level roles within WM. The focus on experiential learning and mentoring ensures that trainees emerge as capable leaders equipped to manage landfill operations effectively, uphold environmental and safety standards, and foster productive community relationships. This role serves as a gateway for individuals seeking a robust career trajectory in waste management operations leadership.

Job Requirements

high school diploma or GED
bachelor's degree preferred
4-5 years relevant work experience in operations, construction, engineering, or heavy equipment management
ability to comply with safety protocols and participate in drug and alcohol testing
physical ability to perform duties in a safety-sensitive environment
willingness to participate in ongoing training and mentorship programs

Job Qualifications

bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or in lieu of degree
high school diploma or GED with 4 years relevant work experience
5 years relevant work experience with increased responsibility in construction, engineering, geology, operations management, or heavy equipment
professional engineer certificate preferred
registered land surveyor certificate preferred
professional geologist certificate preferred

Job Duties

complete the Disposal OMT curriculum including foundational, intermediate, and advanced training through the WM Learning Management System
attend and participate in all mandatory group training sessions
develop knowledge of day-to-day landfill management including fill sequencing, cover operations, waste placement and compaction, equipment and labor deployment, storm water management, and traffic flow
gain working knowledge of heavy equipment functionality and maintenance including operation and in-shop care
effectively manage site personnel including non-exempt operators through experiential efforts and training
understand landfill design and construction including cell excavation, earthwork, liner cross-sections, slope stability, geosynthetics deployment, leachate and gas control systems, and final cover cross sections
develop proficiency in leachate and landfill gas management including renewable energy operations
engage in community affairs and manage community relations through participation in public affairs events
understand environmental monitoring, protection issues, regulatory requirements, and site permits
gain knowledge of financial, accounting, and forecasting processes including reporting to senior management and scale house operations
understand how waste streams are sold and priced within WM sales and marketing and their relation to operations
commit to WM safety program and collaborate with corporate and local safety teams to foster a safety conscious culture
participate in landfill operational reviews providing constructive feedback
take part in Area mentor programs
perform other duties including special projects and interim management assignments with action and experiential learning