Heavy Equipment Operator (Graham, WA)
About the role
This is a full-time, year-round union position operating heavy equipment in a safety-focused landfill environment. Candidates with experience operating loaders, excavators, dozers, compactors, graders, or similar heavy equipment are encouraged to apply.
Responsibilities
- Safely operate heavy equipment including compactors, dozers, loaders, excavators, graders, skid steers, top picks, grinders, and other site equipment.
- Move, spread, compact, and manage waste materials in accordance with site procedures.
- Load and unload materials while maintaining safety and efficiency.
- Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.
- Perform basic preventative maintenance and equipment care.
- Direct traffic and assist customers in navigating the facility safely.
- Identify and report safety concerns, hazards, and operational issues.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and professional work environment.
- Work collaboratively with site personnel to achieve operational goals.
- Follow all company safety policies, environmental regulations, and operating procedures.
Requirements
- Previous heavy equipment operating experience required.
- Experience operating landfill, construction, excavation, aggregate, quarry, mining, forestry, or similar heavy equipment is strongly preferred.
- Experience operating loaders, excavators, compactors, dozers, graders, or related equipment preferred.
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
- Able to lift up to 50 pounds without assistance.
- Able to work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Able to work around dust, noise, odors, uneven terrain, and other conditions common to landfill operations.
- Demonstrated commitment to safe work practices and attention to detail.
Qualifications
- English proficiency required for safety communication, training, and operational purposes.
- Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.
Skills
None specifically listed in the job posting.
Benefits
Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, and other valuable benefits available in accordance with the applicable collective bargaining agreement.
Pay
Starting wage of $31.08 per hour (80% of contract scale), increasing to $34.97 per hour (90%) after 6 months and $38.85 per hour (100%) after 1 year.
Schedule
Tuesday through Saturday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision coverage through the applicable union benefit plan
Pension and/or retirement benefits as provided under the collective bargaining agreement
Paid vacation and holidays
Paid sick leave
Company-paid life insurance (if applicable)
Company Information
LRI provides environmentally responsible waste disposal, recycling, and resource recovery services throughout Pierce County. Our team is committed to operating safely, protecting the environment, delivering exceptional customer service, and maintaining a workplace built on mutual respect and accountability.
Why Join LRI?
- Stable, Year-Round Employment
- Competitive Union Pay
- Career Growth
About The Team
The LRI landfill operation is a small, highly collaborative team where every employee plays an important role in the success of the site. Team members work closely together in a safety-sensitive environment and rely on one another to keep operations running safely and efficiently. We Are Looking For Individuals Who Contribute Positively To The Workplace And Demonstrate The Values That Define Waste Connections.
Safety Sensitive Position
This position is designated as safety-sensitive and may be subject to pre-employment and other testing under applicable laws and company policies.