Hazardous Waste Technician (Solid Waste)

Deschutes County Human Resources • Bend, OR

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Under basic supervision, the Hazardous Waste Technician will inspect incoming waste material for the identification, separation, and recycling or disposal of hazardous materials; store and arrange for disposal of non-recyclable hazardous materials; conduct waste screening procedures on incoming refuse loads; perform a variety of manual tasks and physical labor. The Technician also arranges for proper storage and transportation of non-reusable hazardous material in accordance with policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Basic knowledge of chemistry, biology, and physics related to hazardous materials management in a solid waste landfill facility.
• Basic knowledge of laws, rules, regulations, and policies related to hazardous waste handling, transportation, and disposal.
• Basic knowledge of computer applications related to document and report preparation and maintenance.
• Sound customer service practices and procedures.
• Identifying and responding safely to hazardous materials contained in waste loads in compliance with the waste screening program.
• Organization and multitasking while maintaining safe working practices.
• Documenting and maintaining accurate records of load checking and waste screening assignments.
• Communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent; AND one (1) year of relevant experience; OR any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills and knowledge to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Driving is a requirement for this position.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Oregon driver's license within 30 days of hire date.
• Must have dependable transportation and be able and willing to drive throughout Deschutes County in sometimes adverse weather conditions.
• Must be able to work addtional hours and a flexible schedule when needed, including evenings, weekends and holidays, to meet the needs of the department and emergencies.
• Must pass fitness-for-duty medical examination on an annual basis, pursuant to OROSHA437-002-1910.134, Appendix C, OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire [Mandatory].
• Must meet requirements for respirator fit testing and/or remain eligible to wear NIOSH-certified air-purifying respirator or powered air purifying respirator, pursuant to applicable regulatory requirements.
• The OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER training certificate is required within 60 days after hire date; incumbents are expected to complete annual refresher certifications.
• Forklift Operations Certification required within 30 days after hire date.
• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to lift/carry 50 lbs.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience handling, segregating, and packaging hazardous waste.

Responsibilities

• Inspects, identifies, and categorizes incoming hazardous waste for segregation, packaging, bulking, recycling, disposal, and transportation according to applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Under direction, prepares and safely loads hazardous materials onto trucks in compliance with applicable regulations and safety protocols.
• Provides customer service, responds to inquiries; educates, and provides information to customers regarding hazardous material disposal policies and regulations.
• Maintain all equipment and facilities related to the Hazardous Waste operation as directed; performs basic general maintenance of the Hazardous Waste Collection Facility including site set-up, clean up, basic maintenance and repair, inventory, routine inspection, bulking, unloading, and lab packing of hazardous waste.

Benefits

• Robust healthcare package covers medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage at a minimal cost of $100 for employee only and $121 per month for employee plus dependents, which includes an innovative on-site clinic, pharmacy, and wellness and wellbeing services.
• Life insurance
• Retirement (PERS)
• Generous paid time-off (14-18 hours/month to start, pro-rated for part-time)
• Holidays
• Professional development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED