Manager, Landfill Operations

The Lee County Solid Waste Department is seeking an experienced and strategic operational leader to serve as Landfill Operations Manager. This on-site leadership role oversees daily and long-range operations for multiple landfills and a biosolids composting facility located in Hendry County, Florida. These high-volume sites manage more than 1,500 tons of material each day and operate with a team of 20+ employees and contracted partners. This position plays a key role in ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient operations while supporting strategic growth within one of Lee County Government's largest and most public-facing departments. The Landfill Operations Manager provides operational direction, financial oversight, regulatory leadership, and cross-departmental coordination within the County's integrated solid waste management system. About the Community Located in Southwest Florida along Interstate 75, Lee County is a vibrant and rapidly growing region serving more than 800,000 residents across 811 square miles. Home to Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Sanibel, the region offers a strong economy, exceptional natural resources, and a high quality of life. What You'll Do Leadership & Operational Strategy Direct and coordinate safe, efficient, and compliant landfill and compost operations, including daily activities, staffing, equipment utilization, and contractor oversight. Provide strategic direction on operational priorities such as compaction improvement, airspace usage, fill sequencing, odor control, stormwater management, landfill gas systems, and leachate reduction. Lead and develop supervisory, technical, and operational staff; set expectations; and ensure alignment with departmental goals and policies. Oversee operating budgets, contract budgets, procurement needs, and short- and long-range operational and capital planning. Serve as part of the County's emergency response operations. Regulatory Compliance & Technical Oversight Ensure compliance with safety, health, environmental, operational, and permitting requirements. Interpret and apply engineering plans, technical specifications, permit conditions, and regulatory standards. Monitor work in progress, resolve complex operational issues, and evaluate contractor performance. Manage reporting, correspondence, operating documentation, and regulatory submissions. Contract Management & Vendor Oversight Develop and administer contracts and scopes of service for operational, environmental, and construction support. Monitor contractor performance and implement corrective actions as needed. Coordinate with consultants, engineering firms, and regulatory agencies on construction, engineering, and site development activities. Operational Improvements & Site Development Evaluate operational metrics, trends, and performance indicators to support continuous improvement. Guide long-range site development, including sequencing, airspace planning, cover material strategy, and infrastructure needs. Support odor mitigation and landfill gas management initiatives. Stakeholder Coordination & Communication Build and maintain positive working relationships with County departments, contractors, vendors, regulatory agencies, and community stakeholders. Represent the department in interagency meetings, inspections, and project discussions. Minimum Qualifications Any combination of education and experience equivalent to: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a closely related field AND Three (3) years of experience in public utilities or a closely related operational field AND One (1) year of supervisory experience

Additional Requirement:

Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record Preferred Qualifications Candidates with the following are strongly encouraged to apply: Five (5) years of progressively responsible landfill management or solid waste operations experience SWANA Certified Manager of Landfill Operations (CMLO) or equivalent certification Experience managing high-volume landfill or compost operations Knowledge in landfill gas systems, odor control, leachate and stormwater management, airspace management, and site development Experience with contract administration, budgeting, procurement, and regulatory compliance Strong ability to interpret technical documents, plans, and permits Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and resolve complex issues Excellent written and verbal communication skills Work Environment & Requirements Full-time position; Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM May be required to respond during emergencies, storm events, or urgent operational needs Ability to travel to multiple operational sites