Equipment Operator I

Montezuma County; Cortez (CO); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Montezuma County in Cortez, CO is seeking an Equipment Operator I to perform skilled and unskilled tasks operating landfill equipment and maintaining facilities under foreman supervision.

The role requires compliance with regulations, ability to lift up to 75 lbs, valid driver's license, and readiness for overtime and on-call duties.

Qualifications

• Basic math skills and ability to determine disposal charges.
• Basic computer skills in a Microsoft Windows environment or ability to obtain within one year of hire.
• Completion of load inspection training within one month of hire.
• Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid and CPR certifications.
• Knowledge of landfill operations, tools, equipment, materials, and safety procedures.
• Ability to read manuals, charts, and diagnostic tools and complete accurate reports.
• Valid driver's license required.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• One year of labor, construction, or industrial work experience preferred.
• Must obtain and maintain 40‑hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Awareness Training.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain small and mid‑size equipment including loaders, pickup trucks, hand tools, and power tools.
• Assist with landfill operations in areas such as municipal solid waste cells, baling facility, C&D disposal, composting, metal/appliance storage, and animal disposal.
• Perform continuous baler cleanup and operate baler equipment.
• Conduct and document load inspections.
• Perform minor repairs and adjustments on equipment and facility structures; may complete small carpentry or construction tasks.
• Complete required documentation, including maintenance, fueling, and operational checklists.
• Perform groundskeeping, litter control, and general site maintenance.
• Operate landfill scale, computer, and cash register as needed.
• Work overtime as required, including weekends, holidays, and emergency situations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Basic math

Basic computer skills

Load inspection training

First Aid & CPR

HAZWOPER Awareness

Reading manuals/charts

Valid driver's license

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Windows environment

Job description

General Summary

The Equipment Operator I performs a variety of skilled and unskilled tasks involving the operation and maintenance of landfill equipment and facilities. This position works under the direct supervision of the foreman and ensures all activities are completed in accordance with county, state, and federal regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain small and mid‑size equipment including loaders, pick‑up trucks, hand tools, and power tools.


• Assist with landfill operations in areas such as municipal solid waste cells, baling facility, C&D disposal, composting, metal/appliance storage, and animal disposal.


• Perform continuous baler cleanup and operate baler equipment.


• Conduct and document load inspections.


• Perform minor repairs and adjustments on equipment and facility structures; may complete small carpentry or construction tasks.


• Complete required documentation, including maintenance, fueling, and operational checklists.


• Perform groundskeeping, litter control, and general site maintenance.


• Operate landfill scale, computer, and cash register as needed.


• Work overtime as required, including weekends, holidays, and emergency situations.


• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Environmental & Physical Requirements

• Work in varying weather conditions and around noise, dust, odors, and potentially hazardous materials.


• Perform physical activities including sitting, standing, walking, climbing, bending, lifting up to 75 lbs., carrying, pushing, and pulling.


• Must have adequate hearing, vision, and manual dexterity.

Minimum Qualifications

• Basic math skills and ability to determine disposal charges.


• Basic computer skills in a Microsoft Windows environment or ability to obtain within one year of hire.


• Completion of load inspection training within one month of hire.


• Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid and CPR certifications.


• Knowledge of landfill operations, tools, equipment, materials, and safety procedures.


• Ability to read manuals, charts, and diagnostic tools and complete accurate reports.


• Valid driver's license required.


• High school diploma or GED preferred.


• One year of labor, construction, or industrial work experience preferred.


• Must obtain and maintain 40‑hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Awareness Training.

Mandatory Program Participation

• Participation in county drug and alcohol testing program is required.


• Use of safety and personal protective equipment is mandatory.


• Must complete a baseline and annual auditory test.