Operations Manager - Waste Collection

Location: Alabama

Reports To: General Manager / Regional Director

Industry: Waste & Recycling Services

Position Summary

The Operations Manager plays a critical leadership role overseeing the daily operations of a waste collection company. This individual is responsible for managing frontline staff, ensuring regulatory compliance, optimizing routes and equipment utilization, and delivering safe, efficient, and reliable service to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Supervision

Manage and develop route supervisors, drivers, and support staff.

Foster a strong safety culture with accountability at all levels.

Provide coaching, training, and performance evaluations.

Operational Oversight

Oversee daily collection operations across residential, commercial, roll-off, and industrial lines of business.

Ensure timely and cost-effective service delivery while maintaining high customer satisfaction.

Monitor site conditions, vehicle/equipment usage, and compliance with local/state/federal regulations.

Safety & Compliance

Enforce all OSHA, DOT, and environmental safety regulations.

Conduct regular safety meetings, audits, and driver observations.

Maintain accurate documentation and reporting for compliance purposes.

Customer & Community Relations

Partner with customer service and sales teams to resolve service issues.

Build positive relationships with municipal clients, community stakeholders, and regulatory agencies.

Represent the company professionally at public meetings, client discussions, and industry events.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Environmental Services, or related field (preferred).

5+ years of progressive leadership experience in waste management, logistics, transportation, or related industry.

Strong knowledge of DOT regulations, OSHA standards, and environmental compliance.

Demonstrated success in leading frontline teams in a fast-paced, service-driven environment.

Proficiency in route optimization software and MS Office Suite.

Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

What We Offer

Competitive salary and performance bonus structure.

Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans).

Paid time off and company holidays.

Career development and advancement opportunities within a growing company.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.