Who we are: 

When you start to think of waste as a resource, it opens up a world of possibilities. Cleanaway is the largest waste management company in Australia providing sustainable waste management solutions to a range of customers including councils, small businesses, large corporate entities and government agencies to provide sustainable waste management solutions. 

Operations Manager

Lead with purpose. Create safe, high-performing teams. Make a real impact.

At Cleanaway, we’re proud to be at the forefront of the waste management industry, with a strong commitment to safety, service and sustainability. Every day, our teams keep communities running — and behind every successful operation is a capable, people-focused manager.

We’re looking for an experienced Operations Manager who genuinely enjoys leading teams, building capability and creating a culture where people feel supported, safe and accountable. If you’re a strong communicator who balances operational performance with being authentic, this could be your next step.

You’ll have the autonomy to make decisions, improve processes and shape a culture that balances high performance with strong team connection.

Responsibilities include

• Leading and developing, alongside the Operations Supervisor, a team of drivers and administration staff to achieve operational excellence
• Embedding a genuine safety-first culture where everyone is empowered and accountable
• Driving performance through clear expectations, coaching and consistent follow-up
• Developing and executing operational strategies to improve productivity and achieve KPIs
• Monitoring performance metrics, identifying improvement opportunities and implementing practical solutions
• Acting as the escalation point for operational challenges and resolving issues calmly and efficiently
• Collaborating across departments to ensure seamless service delivery and strong internal relationships

What you’ll bring

We’re looking for a confident, capable operator who understands that strong operations are built on strong relationships. You’ll bring practical operational experience, emotional intelligence, and clear, confident communication to the role.

• Proven experience leading blue-collar or frontline operational teams
• Demonstrated experience managing drivers and/or logistics-based teams
• A genuine passion for visible safety leadership
• Strong operational management experience with a focus on continuous improvement
• Confidence working with data, reporting and the MS Office suite
• A current driver’s licence
• The ability to influence, build trust and navigate challenges with professionalism
• A practical, solutions-focused and collaborative leadership style

You’re someone who can balance empathy with accountability, supportive, collaborative but clear on expectations.

Why join Cleanaway?

• Earn well and grow fast – Competitive salary packages, with yearly salary reviews
  Shape your future – Be part of a high-growth Australian business with genuine career development and progression opportunities.
  Feel supported – Join a team culture that prioritises safety, wellbeing, and collaboration.
  Life-friendly perks – Enjoy paid parental leave and benefits that support you through every life stage.
  Benefits that go the extra mile – Employee share program, salary packaging, discounts on health insurance, company offers, flu vaccinations, EAP support, and more.

Our Process:

Our recruitment process involves a number of checks including, but not limited to, criminal history, medicals, drug & alcohol testing, as well as verification of qualifications, licences and right-to-work status.

• We are dedicated to improving employment outcomes and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We also welcome candidates of all ages, abilities, gender identities, experiences (including veterans), and cultural backgrounds.
• If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact us by emailing inclusion@cleanaway.com.au.
  Join us on our exciting journey towards a sustainable future.
• Simply click the Apply button below or visit https://www.cleanaway.com.au/about-us/careers and let's make a positive impact together.

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