Landfill Heavy Equipment Operator

POLK_BoCC_Career Site • Winter Haven, FL

110d • $24 - $35

About The Position

The Landfill Heavy Equipment Operator serves as the senior-level operator responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment at Polk County's landfill and/or transfer station facilities. This position plays a critical role in daily site operations, including waste placement, waste compaction, excavation, environmental compliance, ensuring adherence to performance standards, solid waste industry best practices, and the promotion of a strong safety culture.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma.
• Minimum of ten (10+) years’ progressive job responsibilities working at a landfill and/or transfer station processing a minimum of 2000 tons of municipal solid waste per day.
• Seven (7+) years’ direct first-class experience in constructing landfill cells and slopes utilizing a landfill compactor and/or landfill dozer in the active tipping and disposal areas of a landfill.
• Valid Driver’s license required; must obtain a Florida license upon employment.
• Must maintain a clean driving record to operate an assigned county vehicle.
• Must obtain and maintain University of Florida TREEO Center Landfill Certification within 12 months of employment.

Nice To Haves

• Private industry experience in landfills, transfer stations, collections, and recycling center.

Responsibilities

• Operates heavy equipment in the landfill environment, compaction of solid waste, transportation of cover materials and covers waste in compliance with operational plan and regulatory permits.
• Excavate, transport, and place cover materials on landfill slopes to promote stormwater runoff in compliance with environmental regulations.
• Maintains and improves access roads, tipping floor, and customer convenience areas to ensure safe, timely, and efficient operation of the facility.
• Constructs and maintains berms and drainage systems to contain leachate and effectively manage stormwater.
• Assists with site appearance through active litter control, prevention, and cleanup initiatives.
• Supports the continuous implementation of the site's operations plan, aligned with local and state regulations.
• Performs daily pre- and post-operation inspections of equipment to ensure safety and optimal function.
• Cleans equipment to support equipment uptime and safety.
• Conducts and/or assists in basic maintenance and servicing of assigned vehicles and equipment.
• Utilizes all required PPE and adheres to safety protocols in varying weather, lighting, and environmental conditions.
• Promotes a safety-first atmosphere by ensuring adherence to PPE requirements for employees, contractors, and customers.

Benefits

• Direct Deposit, Bi-Weekly Pay Checks
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Life Insurance
• FRS Retirement
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Education Incentives
• Deferred Compensation Plan
• Wellness Incentives
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Free Employee Gym
• Free Employee Health Clinic

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees