Start a career in waste management with GFL Environmental

by Ethan Paquet

GFL Environmental Inc. provides solid and liquid waste management, recycling, and soil remediation services to municipal, residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional customers across Canada and the US.

In June 2022, the company expanded to PEI, opening two locations in Charlottetown and Summerside, where they employ about 150 staff, including Truck Drivers, Scale House Attendants, Sorters, Dispatchers, Salespersons, Welders, and more.

“For us, it’s more than just a job,” says Wenda Pitre, General Manager, PEI. “We have a responsibility to keep the Island clean, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.”

She says the company prides itself on hiring a diverse staff. “Many of our staff are newcomers to Canada. We hire for personality and train for skill, and we encourage women, people with disabilities, people who belong to minority groups, and newcomers to come work for us.”

Hiring needs

Jobs currently in demand include Roll-Off Drivers, Residential Garbage Truck Drivers, Red Seal Technicians, Sorters, and Account Managers. “Red Seal Technicians have been hard to fill because the demand is so high. Sorters, who sort the waste and recyclables, are also hard to find, just because of the nature of the work.

“All our positions are full-time, but there could be an option for students to gain experience working during the summer.”

Wages and benefits

“We pay staff a livable wage, starting at $17 per hour and ranging up to $40 per hour, depending on the position. We provide a boot and tool allowance, and we supply uniforms, safety gear, and anything else they need to do their jobs.”

“After working with the company full-time for three months, staff also receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes group insurance, group RRSP, and paid ongoing training.”

How to apply

Job listings can be found online on Indeed and the company’s website. “We take people any way they want to connect with us, so if they want to call us or come to our office to drop off a resumé, they can do that as well.”

When hiring, Wenda looks for candidates with a willingness to learn who take pride in the work they do. “Anyone looking to work with us should come to the interview with an open mind and a willingness to work and to learn.

“Ask questions so you can learn about our business and the industry. The world is your oyster, and there are many opportunities to grow within our company.”