Equipment Operator II (Recycling and Environmental) (UNION AFSCME)

Pay

Salary range: $36.951–$43.362 per hour. Starting salary is dependent upon qualifications, but in most cases is no higher than the midpoint for the range.

About the role

This position performs semi-skilled operation of equipment in streets and alleys to collect recycling, bulk refuse, and solid waste; perform snow removal, litter pick-up, and moving of furniture and equipment. A large portion of time is spent operating equipment and performing manual labor. Equipment operated includes sanitation trucks, front-end loaders, skid steers, dump trucks, and other similar medium-heavy equipment. Work is often completed in an environment of moving vehicles, parked vehicles, and buildings under all types of weather conditions, requiring employees to be alert to avoid accidents or personal injuries. Personal safety equipment (steel-toe shoes, reflective vests, hard hats, gloves, safety glasses) is required at all times. Employees may be assigned tasks of similar or higher-level classifications within the Public Works Department to gain experience and training for advancement. This position requires 24/7, 365-day availability and coverage of scheduled and unscheduled overtime for emergencies, snow and ice control, and special projects.

Responsibilities

• Drives all types of solid waste semi-automated packer trucks (rear loader and side loader) in the business district, on narrow streets, in alleys, and to transfer sites outside city limits.
• Operates street sweeper to clean residential or business streets; observes parked or moving vehicles and other obstructions, and safely steers to avoid accidents and injuries.
• Operates pickup trucks, dump trucks, street sweepers, packer trucks, and various specialized equipment, along with sidewalk equipment to plow snow and spread salt.
• Operates a large dump truck to haul, spread, or dump materials, and to plow snow and spread salt.
• Safely operates a front-end loader and skid steer to load and unload materials.
• Safely operates other pieces of equipment and tools of various sizes with different attachments, including hand and garden tools, to perform various streets and sanitation tasks.
• Supports special events.
• Checks condition of equipment daily and performs pre- and post-trip inspections.
• Performs routine preventative maintenance on trucks, utilizing tools and various equipment.
• Communicates effectively (speaking and listening) and demonstrates strong communication skills.
• Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively to provide quality customer service.
• Uses two-way radios, mobile telephones, personal computers, cameras, tablets, and other electronic devices frequently used to communicate and store data.
• Performs a variety of other maintenance tasks assigned to the bureau and agency.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Two (2) or more years of work experience in the operation and handling of vehicles and equipment related to the duties described.
• Class A or B Commercial Driver's License with air brakes endorsement and a safe driving record; must maintain as a condition of employment.

Skills

• Communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing, including utilizing email platforms.
• Use Executime and E-Suite for attendance and payroll information.
• Complete NIMS Incident training (ICS100, ICS200, ICS700, ICS800).
• Efficiently navigate and route.
• Read and apply common sense to carry out verbal and written instructions.
• Operate a variety of refuse collection equipment and vehicles in a safe and efficient manner.
• Perform work without direct supervision.
• Read a map.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Work a flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Physical requirements

• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions: extreme cold, high winds, rain, snow, sleet, high temperatures, and humidity.
• Respond to work at odd hours and on weekends.
• Move debris, dirt, or other material using a shovel, rake, or similar tool.
• Move heavy objects (75 pounds or more) short distances (20 feet or less).
• Focus on small and distant objects, recognize depth, lift, sit for long periods, work in confined spaces, work outdoors at night with limited lighting, talk and hear.
• Travel over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces.
• Remain in a standing position for extended periods.
• Work safely without presenting a direct threat to self or others.
• Work in environments with loud noise levels, chemicals (oil, fumes, gases), dust and dirt, and noxious odors.

Supervision

Work is performed under the general direction of a supervisor or crew leader. Assignments may vary seasonally. Employees must use judgment in the safe use of equipment. Instructions (verbal or written) define the work to be completed; employees are responsible for completing assignments within an established timeframe, independently and in accordance with City work rules and safety regulations. Guidance is provided through rules and regulations, policies and procedures, Unified Work Rules, Union Contract, and OSHA. Work is reviewed through discussion of crew activities and supervisor-initiated on-site inspections. Work is evaluated at least annually for safe and skilled operation of equipment, quality of tasks, adherence to work rules, and performance in accordance with classification standards.

Public contact

The employee will have regular contact with the general public when operating equipment and completing assigned tasks; some contact may be challenging. Employees are expected to embrace, support, and promote the City's values, beliefs, culture, and customer service standards. Contact is also made with other City departments and outside agencies to process special waste removal requests, move equipment, and provide information.

Selection process

• Structured oral interview.
• Category eligibility list; life of list: one (1) year.
• Chosen candidates must provide proof of required licenses, certifications, and education.
• Candidates subject to qualifying pre-employment processes: medical examination, drug/alcohol screen, employment verification, and criminal background check.