Solid Waste Equipment Operator

City of Clearwater•Clearwater, FL

About The Position

Under general direction, the Solid Waste Equipment Operator drives, operates, and assists in maintaining solid waste collection trucks and other heavy equipment on assigned routes and in all weather conditions. The role operates front-, rear-, and side-loading trucks, grapple trucks, roll-off trucks, and tractor trailers to collect, transfer, and dispose of waste, trash, and recycling. The operator performs equipment inspections, helps coordinate assigned workers, carries out minor field repairs, responds to service requests and customer concerns, and maintains daily collection records. The position requires a valid state driver's license and a Class A CDL for tractor/trailers or Class B CDL for other equipment. The entry salary is $45,031.08 annually.

Requirements

Valid state driver's license.
Class A CDL for tractor/trailer operation or Class B CDL for all other equipment; the CDL must be maintained.
High school diploma or GED certificate.
Two years of experience driving heavy-duty automotive equipment, or one year as a Solid Waste Worker with CDL training through City of Clearwater third-party trainers.
Knowledge of automotive and heavy equipment and related hazards; occupational hazards and safety precautions; solid waste collection, disposal, and recycling; equipment operation and applicable driving laws; City geography and assigned routes; safety precautions; power tools and equipment; department policies and protocols; and equipment maintenance practices.
Skill in operating heavy-duty solid waste collection equipment; collaborating with staff amid engine noise and adverse weather; identifying recycling contamination; lifting and moving large objects; operating control levers or steering devices; understanding City geography and oral and written instructions; and using tact and independent judgment within established guidelines.

Responsibilities

Drive, operate, and assist with maintenance of solid waste trucks and heavy equipment on assigned routes.
Navigate streets and City geography, follow safe driving practices, and complete collection stops.
Inspect trucks and equipment before and after trips; assess their condition and report needed repairs and servicing.
Direct and assist one or more workers with assigned tasks.
Position vehicles at refuse containers, operate controls to empty containers, and return containers to safe placements without damaging them or obstructing the right-of-way.
Learn and operate roll-off equipment and perform manual labor collecting refuse bins at residential and commercial facilities, parks, and beaches.
Participate in minor field repairs and adjustments, and monitor routine maintenance and repairs needed to keep equipment operational.
Respond to questions, complaints, service orders, and requests; refer major problems to a supervisor and provide professional customer service.
Dump waste at the City's transfer station or another assigned location, and regularly clean and wash the truck.
Prepare daily truck reports and maintain incidental records of collection activities, including daily collections and issues addressed.
Perform other duties as assigned.