Anaerobic digestion (AD) is an increasingly vital technology in the U.S. waste management and renewable energy sectors.
It offers a sustainable way to process organic waste, including food scraps, agricultural residues, and wastewater biosolids, while producing biogas and nutrient-rich digestate.
Biogas, primarily methane, can be used for electricity generation or upgraded to renewable natural gas (RNG) for pipeline injection and vehicle fuel.
Digestate serves as a natural fertilizer, closing the loop in waste management.
By diverting organic waste from landfills, AD helps cut greenhouse gas emissions by capturing methane before it escapes into the atmosphere.
It also contributes to state-level waste diversion mandates, such as California’s SB 1383, which requires significant reductions in food waste sent to landfills.
Industry growth and investment trends in the U.S.
The U.S. biogas sector has expanded rapidly, with over 2,251 active biogas projects as of early 2024.
Growth has been especially strong in anaerobic digesters at farms, wastewater treatment plants, and dedicated food waste facilities. In 2023 alone, nearly $1.8 billion was invested in new projects.
The shift toward RNG production is a key trend, with 95% of new AD projects focusing on pipeline-quality biomethane.
Incentives like the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) are driving this expansion.
With over 15,000 potential new AD sites identified, the sector could generate 25,000 permanent jobs in the coming decade.
Engineering roles in Anaerobic Digestion
With rapid growth comes increasing demand for skilled professionals.
Engineering roles play a critical part in designing, optimizing, and maintaining AD facilities. Key positions include:
Process Engineers in Anaerobic Digestion
Process engineers design and optimize the digestion process, ensuring maximum biogas yield and efficient feedstock breakdown.
Responsibilities include selecting equipment, troubleshooting process imbalances, and commissioning new facilities. A background in biochemical processes and wastewater treatment is highly beneficial.
Biogas/RNG Engineer in Anaerobic Digestion
These engineers focus on gas upgrading systems, ensuring biogas meets fuel or pipeline standards.
Responsibilities include gas treatment, emissions control, and compliance with energy regulations. Experience in natural gas processing, chemical engineering, or environmental systems is valuable.
Project Engineer in Anaerobic Digestion
Project engineers oversee the development and construction of AD facilities, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
They coordinate between contractors, regulatory agencies, and internal teams to implement efficient digester systems. Familiarity with permitting and construction regulations is essential.
Operations and Maintenance careers in Anaerobic Digestion
Beyond engineering, operational roles ensure AD plants run efficiently, safely, and profitably.
These positions require technical skills in equipment operation, maintenance, and process control.
Plant Operator in Anaerobic Digestion
Operators manage daily plant operations, monitor gas production, and ensure compliance with safety standards.
They adjust feedstock inputs, track digester performance, and respond to system alarms. Many operators transition from wastewater treatment or industrial process backgrounds.
Maintenance Technician in Anaerobic Digestion
Maintenance technicians handle mechanical and electrical upkeep, ensuring pumps, mixers, gas compressors, and engines function properly.
They troubleshoot system failures and coordinate major repairs. A background in industrial maintenance, welding, or electrical work is beneficial.
Facility/Plant Manager in Anaerobic Digestion
Plant managers oversee facility operations, enforce environmental and safety regulations, and optimize production efficiency.
Responsibilities include managing budgets, training staff, and ensuring compliance with permits. Managers often have experience in wastewater treatment, waste-to-energy, or agricultural operations.
Skills, Qualifications, and Certifications for Anaerobic Digestion
Engineers typically need a Bachelor’s degree in chemical, environmental, or mechanical engineering.
A Professional Engineer (PE) license is often preferred. Knowledge of process simulation software, SCADA systems, and regulatory standards is essential.
Operators and technicians may enter the field with a high school diploma or associate degree in industrial technology or environmental sciences.
The American Biogas Council offers a Digester Operator Certification, and OSHA safety training is often required.
Major Anaerobic Digestion Companies and Employers
Numerous companies are driving AD expansion in the U.S.:
- Anaergia, Bioenergy DevCo, Vanguard Renewables – Leaders in food waste and manure digestion projects.
- Veolia, Waste Management, Republic Services – Integrating AD into waste management strategies.
- Dominion Energy, BP, Chevron – Investing in RNG from farm-based digesters.
- Municipal wastewater treatment facilities – Expanding co-digestion capabilities to include food waste streams.
These organizations offer engineering, operations, and project management roles across the U.S.
Job seekers should monitor industry-specific job boards, corporate career pages, and professional networks like the American Biogas Council.
Future job outlook and emerging trends for Anaerobic Digestion
With strong policy backing and increasing corporate investment in sustainability, the demand for AD professionals will continue to rise.
Key trends shaping future careers include:
- Expansion of RNG production – Growing demand for engineers with expertise in gas upgrading and energy integration.
- Co-digestion of diverse waste streams – Increased need for process optimization and microbiological expertise.
- Advanced monitoring and automation – New roles in data analysis and system optimization.
- Integration with climate goals – AD projects will be central to achieving emissions reduction targets, creating long-term job stability.
Anaerobic Digestion salary insights
Salaries vary by role, experience, and location:
- Plant operators: $45k–$65k per year, with experienced operators earning up to $70k+.
- Maintenance technicians: $50k–$80k, depending on specialization.
- Process/RNG engineers: $70k–$110k, with senior engineers exceeding $120k.
- Plant managers: $90k–$150k, with large facilities offering higher compensation.
With demand for AD expertise exceeding supply, wages are expected to remain strong, and career growth opportunities will expand as the industry scales up.
Final thoughts on Anaerobic Digestion in the US
Anaerobic digestion is at the heart of sustainable waste management and renewable energy.
As the sector continues to grow, job opportunities in engineering, operations, and project management will multiply. Whether you’re an engineer, operator, or technician, now is the time to explore a career in anaerobic digestion and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Looking for opportunities in this field?
Drop your resume with Astute today and explore how we can help connect you to the right role.
