Email: apprenticeships@phoenix.gov
Solid Waste Equipment Operator Apprenticeships
Overview
The Solid Waste Equipment Operator (SWEO) apprenticeship program was developed to attract and train individuals with the desire to earn their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and become skilled SWEO. Apprentices provide trash and recycling collection services to more than 400,000 households within the city's 500+ square miles.
Apprentices must successfully and satisfactorily complete all assigned classroom and equipment training, 2,000 on-the-job training (OJT) hours, and a minimum of 228 related training instruction hours. During this period of the program, apprentices will be non-classified and paid as a SWEO apprentice. After successful completion of all requirements, apprentices will be promoted into the SWEO classification and complete a 12-month probationary period.
Department: Public Works
Salary
- $22.61 / hour starting wage
- After obtaining CDL receive +$3/hr
- $26.18 / hour after 1,000 OJT hours
- $27.49 / hour after 2,000 OJT hours
- Starting Pay Upon Graduation: $57,179
On The Job Training Includes
- Securing a Class (A) Commercial Driver’s License Learning Permit
- Securing a Class (A) Commercial Driver’s License
- Completing All Required Solid Waste Equipment Operator Apprenticeship Academy Training and Transition to a Dedicated Training Assignment
- Graduating the SWEO Apprenticeship Program
- Earning a State of Arizona Completion Certificate
- Earning a Department of Labor Completion Certificate
- Promoting to Solid Waste Equipment Operator
Meet Our Apprentice
Minimum Qualifications
- Must have High School Diploma or GED at the time of hire.
- Must be at least 18 years of age (the minimum age for a Commercial Driver’s License holder).
- Must hold a Class D or equivalent license for one year and prove one year of driving experience in a vehicle other than a motorcycle.
- Must have a clean driving record.
- Ability to:
- Comply with department’s policies and procedures while demonstrating superior seamless customer service, integrity, and commitment to innovation, efficiency, and fiscally responsible activity.
- Move heavy objects (50 pounds or more) short distances (20 feet or less).
- Work early mornings and work mandatory overtime daily and/or weekly.
- Work for prolonged periods sitting/standing in one location, and/or walking over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces.
- Work irregular hours, second and/or third shifts, weekends, holidays, and evenings may be required.
- Maintains Regular and Reliable attendance.
Program requirements are subject to change without notice.