Solid Waste Management Director - Sign-on Bonus up to $5,000

What You'll Be Doing

This position provides executive-level leadership for county-wide Solid Waste Management. It involves significant coordination with municipalities, public agencies, and private organizations within Wake County that may have their own collection and hauling operations. The successful candidate will supervise a team of professionals to protect public health and the environment while ensuring the long-term capability to meet the needs of our growing community in a cost-effective manner. This is an exciting opportunity to influence waste diversion locally and develop world-class strategies for future waste management.

Essential Functions:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of 20+ solid waste facilities
• Ensure regulatory compliance
• Administer service and engineering contracts
  Evaluate, develop and implement innovative services
• Maintain effective communication with partners, colleagues and residents
  

Please Note

•  Office/work location varies based on need; may be the Waverly F. Akins Office Building , South Wake Landfill field office or other facilities.
•  The anticipated salary for this position is $101,817 - $162,903, but will ultimately be based on the selected candidates’ experience and education, as well as considering equity within Wake County.

About Our Team

Our Solid Waste Team provides waste disposal and recycling drop-off services to residents and businesses in Wake County, along with award-winning education programs. Last year, the South Wake Landfill accepted 530,741 tons of garbage, and our Waste & Recycling facilities recycled 40,751 tons of materials. Our motivated team consistently receives praise from residents for the education, recycling, and disposal services we provide to the community.

The Basics (Required Education and Experience)

• Bachelor's degree in science, engineering, public or business administration or related field
• Six years of experience in solid waste management, construction engineering, utilities management, or public administration, including at least two years of supervisory experience
• Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record
• Equivalent education and experience are accepted

• Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Beyond the Basics (Preferred Education and Experience)

• We are seeking a candidate with project management and leadership experience in solid waste management, construction engineering, and/or public administration. Licensure as a professional engineer is a plus but not required.

How Will We Know You're 'The One'?

• You demonstrate cooperative leadership by developing a common vision and fully participating in creating a unified leadership team that delivers results.
• You ensure alignment between the plans and operations of the Solid Waste Division and Wake County’s mission and vision.
• You see the big, long‑range picture and lead staff and partners accordingly.
• You are skilled at facilitating challenging conversations and building consensus to advance objectives.
• You confidently manage large projects that impact all Wake County residents.

About This Position

Location: WCOB Raleigh, NC 27602

Employment Type: Regular

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday 8:30am to 5:15pm, with weekends and on-call as required

Hiring Range: $101,817 - $162,903

Market Range: 101,816.00 - 183,263.00

Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Posting Closing Date: 7:00 pm on 8/21/2026

What Makes Wake Great

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