Solid Waste Truck Operator

About the role

This requisition expires on August 9, 2026, but may close earlier if the position is filled prior to the expiration date. Responsible for the safe and effective operation of heavy equipment to collect/dispose/process municipal solid waste.

Responsibilities

• Safely drive solid waste collection vehicle over assigned routes to and from the sanitary landfill through busy City of Denton streets and neighborhoods; must pay close attention to other vehicles, pedestrians, team members, parked vehicles, and overhead obstructions.
• Load and unload solid waste, recyclables and other items collected with hydraulic controls.
• Track and report solid waste ordinance violations to supervision and customer service.
• Perform daily Pre-Trip and Post-Trip inspection and maintenance checks of all equipment; report any issues immediate to leader.
• Operate side-load or front-load lift mechanism truck to empty commercial dumpsters into collection vehicles or operate hydraulic lift for loading and/or unloading roll-off containers onto roll-off vehicle as needed.
• Operate automated side-load, rear-load, claw truck, or delivery vehicles to empty residential carts or perform hand collection of refuse and brush as needed.
• Auxiliary duties as assigned by supervisor.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent; and, Four (4) years’ experience in the operation of rear tandem axle trucks over 30,000 GVW or a variety of multiple types of heavy equipment.
• Must have and maintain a valid Class A or B Commercial Driver License (CDL) with Air Brake endorsement and a good driving record prior to employment, OR Any combination of related education, experience, certifications, and licenses that will result in a candidate successfully performing the essential functions of the job.

Skills

• Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations, as well as City of Denton policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of maintenance and appropriate usage of tools and equipment, per to department/division.
• Skilled at the beginner level, working with Microsoft Office 365, mobile devices, and other software systems to complete work.
• Skilled in identifying problems and implementing solutions.
• Skilled in providing exceptional service to internal and external customers.
• Communicates effectively, both in oral and in written forms, speaks publicly, and listens intently to other points of view.
• Works independently to manage multiple work tasks while balancing competing priorities with attention to detail and in a fast-paced environment.
• Safety drives, backs, and operates heavy equipment on busy city streets and through neighborhoods.
• Operates the onboard GPS unit and reads a map to navigate the City of Denton.
• Handles difficult and stressful situations with professional composure and confidentiality.
• Establishes and maintains effective interpersonal relationships.
• Communicates effectively, both in oral and written forms, for the needs of the audience.
• Is flexible and adaptable to changing work environment to facilitate/accomplish needed activities.
• Documents all adjustments necessary and approved to complete the project.
• Reads, understands, and follows safety protocols and safe work procedures.

Conditions of Employment

• Must have and maintain a valid Class A or B Commercial Driver License (CDL) with Air Brake endorsement and a good driving record prior to employment.
• Must have and maintain a valid state required minimum automobile liability insurance prior to employment (must obtain Texas driver’s license and state required minimum automobile liability insurance within 90 days of hire per state law).
• Must pass a drug test, driver’s license check, criminal history background check, and social security number verification.
• Must pass a physical examination.
• Must pass an equipment proficiency test.
• Must attend and successfully complete the City’s Defensive Driving Course (DDC) as soon as possible after employment (if required to drive City vehicle or personal vehicle for City business).

Environmental Factors and Conditions/Physical Requirements

• Works outside with exposure to sun, heat, cold, humidity, and inclement weather, noise, no/low light, insects, poison oak/ivy, debris, odor, chemicals, vibration, fumes, confined spaces, and rough terrain; occasionally requires irregular and/or prolonged hours.
• Travels to City of Denton buildings and professional meetings as required.
• Attends and works outside normal business hours, as needed.
• Works overtime, holidays, staggered shifts based on business necessity and as needed.

CORE VALUES

• Inclusive
• Collaborative
• Service-Oriented
• Strategically Focused
• Fiscally Responsible