Landfill Equipment Operator

Garfield County Colorado•Rifle, CO

9d•$25 - $30

About The Position

The Landfill Equipment Operator performs skilled operations of specialized light and heavy equipment to transfer, spread, cover, load, and compact waste and soil safely and efficiently. The role also includes equipment maintenance, facility and grounds upkeep, screening incoming loads, collecting samples, monitoring gas levels and PCS, and conducting environmental inspections. This is an entry-to-journey-level position requiring some previous experience and working under minimal supervision. The department may fill the position at the operator or Crew Lead level based on the applicant’s expertise and department needs; the Crew Lead level additionally provides work leadership, project oversight, and staff training. This is a regular full-time position scheduled for 40 hours per week. Work schedules may change seasonally: October through March, Tuesday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; April through September, Wednesday through Sunday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The posting also describes typical hours as 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and notes that weekends and holidays may be required depending on department needs. Frequent travel to job sites, field work, trainings, and meetings is required. The position is often exposed to outdoor weather ranging from extreme heat to extreme cold, construction equipment and debris, fumes, odors, airborne particles, dust, and toxic or caustic chemicals. There may be exposure to electrical and mechanical hazards, occasional work around active construction or in high, precarious places, and operation of heavy equipment in all weather conditions at remote worksites. Safety equipment is required for most essential functions. A pre-employment background check and drug and alcohol test are required; CDL-related drug and alcohol testing procedures also apply where applicable. The hiring pay range is $24.64–$29.57, and the full pay range is $24.64–$34.50. The position is non-exempt and non-supervisory at the Operator level; Crew Leads provide lead work. A valid driver’s license must be maintained as a condition of employment.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Two years of operator experience for the Landfill Equipment Operator level; four years of operator experience for the Landfill Equipment Operator/Crew Lead level.
Valid driver’s license, which must be kept current as a condition of employment.
Ability to repeatedly lift and carry heavy machinery components or tools, often exceeding 45 pounds, using appropriate equipment or techniques.
Ability to repeatedly bend, stoop, and crouch when entering or exiting equipment and performing maintenance checks.
Ability to operate levers, joysticks, and controls precisely while wearing work gloves, including in adverse weather.
Clear vision to operate heavy equipment safely and monitor surroundings, gauges, and obstacles.
Ability to stand for extended periods and walk safely on uneven terrain.
Ability to safely climb equipment access points or ladders when needed for maintenance or inspections.
Ability to reach controls and equipment components while seated in the operator’s seat.
Sufficient hearing and auditory perception to communicate with coworkers and respond to job-site signals or alarms.
Ability to remain seated for extended periods while operating heavy machinery.
Ability to manipulate heavy equipment attachments, such as buckets or blades, using hydraulic systems.
Fine motor skills to operate equipment functions, switches, and auxiliary controls precisely.
Ability to communicate in English, including through written, verbal, or other communication channels required by the position.
Ability to use position-related technology and willingness to learn new technologies.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather, operate heavy equipment in all weather conditions and at remote worksites, and wear required safety equipment.
Successful completion of required pre-employment criminal background check, employment verification, motor vehicle record check, and drug and alcohol test.
Compliance with applicable state, federal, and local CDL drug and alcohol testing procedures, including random testing, and a satisfactory completed previous-employer reference.

Responsibilities

Operate landfill equipment proficiently and without a supervisor, including compactors, weigh scales, backhoes, loaders, bulldozers, graders, and lowboys used to transport heavy equipment.
Operate power tools and hand tools; according to level and ability, fabricate, weld, and modify parts and equipment.
Perform routine equipment maintenance, including checking and replenishing fluid levels, checking or replacing air filters, greasing equipment, changing oil, lubricating vehicles, changing fuel, air, and oil filters, and checking transmission, engine, hydraulic, and differential fluid levels.
Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections to confirm equipment is ready for use.
Plow snow and ice and maintain landfill facilities and grounds to ensure access in varying weather conditions.
Observe safety precautions and wear appropriate safety equipment; assist with equipment repairs as required.
Screen loads to identify hazardous or otherwise unacceptable waste and valuable recyclables.
Keep work areas clean and organized, store equipment properly, fuel equipment, and pick up debris generated by facility operations.
Take courses designated by the Landfill Manager to support professional development.
At the Crew Lead level, assist in training field staff; lead and guide work crews; improve efficiency; help ensure deadlines and department quality standards are met; share knowledge; attend meetings; and assist operators with assignments, issues, training, and emergencies.
At the Crew Lead level, provide input to the Landfill Manager for staff evaluations; plan projects; supervise contractors; and document projects according to state requirements and the Landfill Manager’s direction.
Communicate with Environmental Engineers as needed to support compliance with state regulations.
Observe and measure combustible gas and other toxic pollutant levels in and around the landfill to maintain regulatory compliance.
Collect samples, monitor gas levels and PCS, and conduct environmental inspections.
Maintain complete and accurate records and reports, including regulatory forms, and maintain required certifications.
Assist the Landfill Manager with budgeting and procurement processes as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.