Heavy Equipment Operator
Pay
$17.20 per hour
About the role
Under general supervision, the employee operates various refuse vehicles—including front‑end loader, side loader, rear loader, or any mechanized loader—in the collection of commercial or residential solid waste and recyclable materials. The position occasionally prepares simple reports and/or records, makes several decisions weekly requiring interpretation and judgment, has little or no contact with the public, and carries no supervisory responsibilities.
Responsibilities
- Operates a mechanical side loader and packer truck to collect solid waste on a designated route, including streets; drives the loaded truck to the landfill, dumps the load, and returns to the route.
- Operates hydraulically operated arms to lift mechanized containers, empties them into the truck, and uses hydraulic ramps to compact the refuse.
- Operates a rear‑loader packer truck to collect uncontained refuse in a designated area.
- Detects, identifies, and reports improper equipment performance and makes necessary operational adjustments.
- Performs daily sweeping of streets in designated areas, weather permitting.
- Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations, decrease work processes, and work cooperatively to provide seamless customer service.
Equipment / Materials
- City vehicle
- Two‑way radio
- Backhoe
- Front‑end loader
- Side loader
- Rear loader
- Sanitation/roll‑off truck
- Grapple truck
- Brush unit
- Pressure washer
Working Conditions & Physical Demands
The position may require unusual or irregular hours and occasional travel. Hazards exist that could result in lost time, accidents, or exposure to soiling of clothing and skin. Work involves normal weather changes. Physical effort includes cleaning the sweeper vacuum by climbing and cleaning any vehicle used. The employee must be able to lift more than 15 lb.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED equivalent (opportunity to obtain within nine months if not possessed at hire).
- Sufficient knowledge to perform work in a limited range of situations with intermittent supervision.
- Some experience preferred; can be accumulated during 2–6 months of employment.
- Valid Texas Class “B” Commercial Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record.