Job Description

SOLID WASTE EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

JOB CODE 72080

Effective Date:	Rev. 06/09A

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

The fundamental reason this classification exists is to provide safe, efficient, and economical operation of heavy automotive equipment used in the collection of solid waste. Solid Waste Equipment Operators work under the general supervision of a Solid Waste Foreman to ensure they are qualified to operate the assigned equipment in the required manner, that they understand the collection schedule and other assigned tasks, and that they accomplish their assigned tasks at an acceptable level of proficiency.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Operates a mechanical, side loading packer truck, collecting solid waste on a designated route, including streets and alleys;
• Drives the loaded truck to the landfill and dumps the load, returning to the designated route;
• Operates wheel type tractor, front-end loader with clamshell bucket;
• Operates hydraulically operated arms to lift mechanized containers which are emptied into the truck and hydraulic rams to compact the refuse;
• Operates rear loading packer truck, collecting uncontained refuse in a designated area;
• Detects, identifies, and reports improper equipment performance and makes necessary operational adjustments;
• Complies with department's policies and procedures;
• Demonstrates continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality seamless customer service.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Traffic laws, ordinances, and rules involved in equipment operation.
• The hazards and safety rules and precautions of operating heavy equipment.

Skill in:

• The operation of heavy equipment used in solid waste collection.

Ability to:

• Read and follow route maps.
• Understand and follow written and oral instructions in the English language.
• Work independently in the performance of duties.
• Work cooperatively with other City employees and the public.
• Make fine, highly controlled muscular movements to adjust the position of a control mechanism (example: operating levers or pedals).
• Enter and exit the cab of a solid waste truck that is 3.5 feet off the ground.
• Work safely without presenting a direct threat to self or others.
• Travel across uneven or rocky surfaces in alleys or at the landfill.
• Lift arms above shoulder level to enter the equipment cab.
• Clean equipment using appropriate materials such as a high pressure hose when needed.
• Work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the outdoor elements.
• Sit for long periods of time.

Additional Requirements:

• This classification requires the use of personal or City vehicles on City business. Individuals must be physically capable of operating the vehicles safely, possess a valid driver license and have an acceptable driving record. In addition, individuals are required to pass an Arizona Department of Transportation physical exam and possess the appropriate commercial driver license (CDL). Pre-employment drug testing is required, and employees will be subject to unannounced alcohol and drug testing as a condition of continued employment. Use of a personal vehicle for City business will be prohibited if the employee does not have personal insurance coverage.
• Some positions will require the performance of other essential and marginal functions depending upon work location, assignment, or shift.

ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:
(1) Completion of a departmental training course (certified by Personnel) for equipment being tested; OR (2) qualification for "out-of-class" pay as a Solid Waste Equipment Operator, OR (3) log 120 hours on equipment being tested; OR (4) possess a minimum of two years of experience operating trucks (two ton and over), six months of which must be at the level of Solid Waste Equipment Operator. Other combinations of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.