Operations Manager

Job Description

Job Description

About the Company:

 

GreenWaste has been an industry leader in recycling and waste diversion for 40 years and is on a growth trajectory after private equity investment in 2021. Our business was founded on principles of environmental sustainability, and innovation is a cornerstone of our ongoing operations and growth strategy. GreenWaste specializes in all aspects of material collection, processing, and sales, tailoring our service offerings to the unique needs of our customers and communities, and helping to shape the evolution of the solid waste and recycling industry. We work directly with 20+ municipalities and 50+ jurisdictions, operate highly regulated facilities in 10+ locations, and have 1,000+ employees. 

Position Summary

GreenWaste is seeking to fill the position of Operations Manager to provide operational leadership and oversight for one or more post‑collection facilities. This exempt role is responsible for translating facility and company objectives into effective operating systems , ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient performance through the leadership of Operations Supervisors.

The Operations Manager works closely with the General Manager , Safety, Maintenance, and cross‑functional partners to ensure operational consistency, regulatory readiness, workforce capability, and achievement of performance, safety, and financial goals . This position directly manages Operations Supervisors and serves as the primary bridge between strategic priorities and daily execution.

This role is based out of our Zanker Road Resource Management facility at 675 Los Esteros Road, San Jose, CA. 

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Oversight

• Lead, coach, and manage Operations Supervisors to ensure consistent, safe, and effective execution of daily post‑collection operations
• Translate General Manager priorities into operational plans, staffing strategies, and performance expectations
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels, coverage models, and scheduling practices are in place to meet operational demands
• Oversee coordination of sub‑haulers, vendors, and internal resources to support daily and future operational needs
• Monitor operational performance and proactively address trends, risks, or breakdowns through corrective action

Safety, Compliance & Training Systems

• Support and advance the company’s safety mission in partnership with the Safety team
• Ensure consistent implementation of safety programs, PPE standards, training requirements, and hazard mitigation practices
• Provide oversight of employee onboarding and recurring training programs to ensure workforce readiness and regulatory compliance
• Audit supervisory enforcement of safety rules and standard operating procedures
• Support incident response, investigation, and development of corrective action plans
• Partner with the General Manager in preparation for regulatory inspections and audits

People Management & Workforce Development

• Directly manage Operations Supervisors, including performance management, coaching, development, and accountability
• Partner with Human Resources on recruiting, onboarding, disciplinary actions, and talent development efforts
• Ensure Supervisors are effectively leading Processing Plant Leads and hourly employees
• Promote consistency, fairness, and professionalism in employee relations and leadership practices
• Support succession planning and leadership development within operations

Performance, Financial & KPI Management

• Analyze operational reports and KPI data (e.g., throughput, safety, labor, overtime, productivity) to drive data‑informed decisions
• Manage payroll considerations and operating expenses in alignment with financial and operational goals
• Identify cost‑containment opportunities and operational efficiencies without compromising safety or compliance
• Communicate material field issues, risks, and performance concerns to the General Manager in a timely manner

Maintenance, Assets & Projects

• Coordinate with Maintenance to ensure equipment availability, preventive maintenance planning, and timely repair escalation
• Assist with troubleshooting operational impacts related to equipment or infrastructure issues
• Support planning and execution of facility improvements, repairs, and expansion projects
• Coordinate onsite development projects in collaboration with internal teams and external partners

  Communication & Continuous Improvement

• Facilitate clear and effective communication between the General Manager, Supervisors, and frontline teams
• Ensure operational standards, procedures, and expectations are clearly communicated and consistently applied
• Lead or participate in initiatives focused on safety improvement, operational efficiency, standardization, and employee engagement
• Perform other management duties as required to support facility and company objectives

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong leadership, communication, and labor‑relations skills
• Ability to design, implement, and sustain operational systems and processes
• Ability to read, understand, and enforce operating, safety, and compliance documents
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and ability to learn third‑party systems
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
• Ability to work effectively with senior leadership, supervisors, employees, vendors, and regulatory partners

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• 5+ years of experience in solid waste, recycling, or related industrial operations preferred
• Prior management experience required
• Must maintain a valid California Driver License and acceptable DMV record

Language Skills

• Proficiency in English (verbal and written) required

• Bilingual English/Spanish communication skills preferred

Physical Demands

• Ability to move safely throughout active industrial and processing environments
• Ability to stand, walk, and climb stairs to access operational areas as needed
• Ability to occasionally lift or carry items up to 25 lbs (e.g., tools, materials, documents, or equipment during inspections)
• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing administrative, analytical, and planning work
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) when in operational areas

  Work Environment

• Typical work schedule is Monday through Friday; weekend and holiday work may be required based on operational needs
• Work is performed in indoor and outdoor environments with exposure to changing weather conditions
• Environment includes dynamic schedules, moving equipment, and evolving operational priorities

Compensation and Benefits

Financial compensation will be commensurate with applicable experience. GreenWaste offers a competitive benefits package, including paid time off, holiday pay, 401K benefits, FSA, and full employee coverage for medical, dental and vision insurance.

This Organization participates in E-Verify.

GreenWaste provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, and/o