Heavy Equipment Operator

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

Old Town (ME)

On-site

USD 45,000 - 75,000

Full time

24 hours ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

Life & Disability Insurance

Maternity & Parental Leave

Flexible Spending Accounts

Discounted Stock Program

401K

Employee Awards

Employee Assistance Plan

Wellness Incentive

Tuition Assistance

Career Pathways

Job summary

Casella Waste Systems, Inc. is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to safely operate landfill machinery, including backhoes, forklifts, graders, tractors, and front-end loaders. The role emphasizes efficient transfer, spreading, loading and compacting of waste with strong safety practices.

Hiring range is $45,000 to $75,000 annually. Candidates should work on-site at the Maine landfill and join a team focused on safety, reliability, and operational excellence.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED; two years of heavy equipment experience preferred.
Legally eligible to work in the US; ability to perform in various weather conditions.
Strong safety, communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

Assist in maintenance and upkeep of the landfill site, including litter removal.
Perform pre/post-operation inspections per Casella safety standards and regulations.
Monitor waste for evidence of unacceptable or hazardous materials.
regularly check equipment to minimize downtime and clean tracks or wheels.
Perform minor service on equipment; refer major issues to maintenance.
Operate heavy equipment following safety protocols and ensure site upkeep.
Observe equipment operation and troubleshoot as needed.
Assist technicians with maintenance and report issues.
Follow safety policies and participate in training and company initiatives.
Fulfill other duties to support company goals and values.

Skills

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Problem solving

Communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Backhoes

Forklifts

Graders

Tractors

Front-end loaders

Job description

Position Summary

The Heavy Equipment Operator ensures the safe operation of heavy equipment at the landfill for the purpose of transferring, spreading, covering, loading and/or compacting waste or soil in an efficient and safe manner; operates one or more types of heavy construction equipment including backhoes, forklifts, graders, tractors, and front-end loaders.

Position Summary

Hiring Range: $45,000-$75,000 annually

Key Responsibilities

Assists in the maintenance and upkeep of the landfill site, including litter removal
Performs pre/post operation inspection of equipment in accordance with Casella safety standards as well as state and federal regulations. Ensures all safety equipment and devices are operational and secured properly to equipment
Monitors waste for evidence of unacceptable or hazardous waste in materials
Monitors the condition of the equipment frequently to ensure it is always operationally ready to minimize downtime; clean tracks or wheels on equipment as needed
Perform and document minor service on equipment, referring more complicated mechanical issues to maintenance shop for repair
Operates heavy equipment following all safety and training protocols and ensures that the facility is properly maintained
Observes operation of heavy equipment performing trouble shooting procedures as necessary.
Occasionally assists technicians with maintenance and ensures communication of mechanical issues
Follows all required safety policies and procedures
Participates in training and other learning opportunities to expand knowledge of the company, products, sales and services and performs any other duties needed to help drive our vision, fulfill our mission, and/or abide by our core values.

Career Path Definitions & Distinctions

Apprentice

0-2 years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to operate one type of yellow iron equipment. Possesses a complete knowledge and understanding of safety protocols and procedures necessary for operating the equipment.

Operator I

2-4 years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to safely operate two types of yellow iron equipment involved in composting operations. Possesses a strong knowledge and understanding of safety protocols and procedures necessary for operating the equipment.

Operator II

4-6 years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to safely operate three types of yellow iron equipment involved in composting operations. Possesses an expert level knowledge and understanding of safety protocols and procedures necessary for operating the equipment.

Lead Operator

6+ years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to develop training plans and mentor employees to achieve successful outcomes. Demonstrates the capability to operate all types of yellow iron equipment involved in composting operations. Exhibits an ability to prioritize, delegate, and communicate clearly to the team and managers.

Education, Experience & Qualifications

The successful candidate will be a self-directed person, at least 18 years of age, have a demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and be legally eligible to work in the US. It is required to have a high school diploma or GED and two years of prior experience in heavy equipment operation is preferred. Physical ability to perform duties in various weather conditions.

Proven commitment to work and safety, excellent communication and problem solving skills are required.

Attributes

Positive, team-oriented individual who has a strong work ethic, is committed to safety, customer driven, open to personal and professional training and development, and results-oriented with the ability to see the larger picture while focusing on detailed information.

Benefits