Operations Management Trainee (OMT) Program

Job Description

Operations Management Trainee | GFL Environmental Inc.

The Tone:
This is a full-time, 9-to-12-month Operations Management Trainee program at GFL Environmental Inc., a large environmental services company operating in an essential, recession-proof industry. This fast-track leadership initiative is designed to transform ambitious, high-energy problem solvers into critical management roles at one of our hauling locations. The program prioritizes raw talent, a strong work ethic, and leadership acumen, providing comprehensive, hands-on training to prepare individuals for a frontline leadership position such as Operations Supervisor or Operations Manager. It’s an opportunity to build a significant career from the ground up, leading people and impacting daily operations.

The TL;DR
• Role: Operations Management Trainee Program
• Type: Full-time
• Location: In-person, Rotational within Midwest territory (Wisconsin, Illinois, or the Upper Peninsula of Michigan)
• Team: Develops future frontline leadership, mentored by a General Manager, leading small teams post-graduation.
• Mission: To equip individuals with the comprehensive operational knowledge and leadership skills required to manage a hauling location effectively.
• Tech Stack: Routing software

What You’ll Actually Do
• Learn Intensely: Absorb all compliance regulations, including DOT and OSHA standards, alongside crucial corporate financial metrics to build a thorough understanding of the operational landscape.
• Rotate Through Operations: Gain frontline experience by riding along with drivers, shadowing mechanics in the shop, and working alongside dispatchers to master daily route management, safety protocols, and fleet maintenance.
• Optimize Efficiency: Dive deep into operational data, utilize routing software, and engage with customer service to identify opportunities for route optimization, effectively manage labor costs, and expertly handle customer escalations.
• Demonstrate Leadership: Step into a “co-pilot” role under the mentorship of the General Manager, actively supervising small teams, conducting daily safety briefings, and taking ownership of specific operational Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Solve Complex Problems: Analyze daily route data to proactively identify inefficiencies, implement solutions to reduce missed pickups, and consistently improve safety scores, while calmly and decisively addressing unexpected operational hurdles like weather delays or truck breakdowns.

The Must-Haves
• Background: A Bachelor’s degree is preferred (any major, including Business, Logistics, Communication, or Humanities), OR equivalent demonstrated life or military experience that proves a strong capacity for hard work and leading others. This role is an entry-level leadership development position designed for individuals ready to start their management career.
• Experience: No prior experience in the waste industry is necessary. We seek candidates who possess aptitude, grit, a genuine eagerness to learn, a fierce work ethic, and a sharp critical thinking ability. The program itself provides all the necessary industry-specific training.
• Skills: The ability to genuinely connect with people across all levels, from the dispatch office to the driver’s seat, sharp critical thinking for data analysis and problem-solving, and a calm, decisive attitude when managing unexpected operational challenges. Humility and curiosity are also key to earning respect within the teams.
• Bonus: Absolute willingness and ability to relocate within our Midwest territory (Wisconsin, Illinois, or the Upper Peninsula of Michigan) based on operational openings upon successful completion of the 9-to-12-month program.