Heavy Equipment Operator - Solid Waste

Xxx; Fort Myers (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A skilled position is available for the safe operation of heavy equipment in the Solid Waste department at the Resource Recovery Facility. Responsibilities include waste processing, equipment maintenance, and public education on disposal practices. Flexibility for emergency response is required.

Qualifications

• At least one year of heavy equipment operation experience, three years preferred.
• Ability to obtain Florida Solid Waste Operator certification within 6 months.

Responsibilities

• Operate machinery such as front-loaders, backhoes, and excavators.
• Perform routine safety inspections of vehicles and equipment.
• Assist and educate the public on disposal practices.

Skills

Knowledge of environmental regulations

Effective verbal and written communication

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Heavy equipment

Job description

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Description

This skilled position is responsible for the safe and proficient operation of motorized heavy equipment within the Solid Waste department. The role is based at the Resource Recovery Facility on Buckingham Road.

Incumbents perform waste processing activities including solid waste handling, recovery, recycling, and proper disposal. They may work at other Solid Waste facilities and perform additional duties as assigned. This position is essential during County emergency events or natural disasters.

Responsibilities

1. Operate machinery such as front-loaders, backhoes, excavators, and skid steers.
2. Drive Class E vehicles, including pickup trucks and light-duty vehicles.
3. Perform and document routine safety inspections of vehicles and equipment.
4. Test vehicles and equipment to identify malfunctions.
5. Perform light preventative maintenance, including greasing, cleaning, refilling fluids, and replacing filters.
6. Implement traffic control procedures and manage tipping floor traffic.
7. Use hand signals and radios for effective communication.
8. Inspect incoming waste for prohibited materials.
9. Identify waste types to determine disposal charges.
10. Handle solid waste activities like sorting, relocating, building windrows, loading, compacting, and recycling.
11. Assist and educate the public on disposal practices and facility locations.
12. Coordinate with contractors and other County departments.
13. Wash and clean vehicles and equipment, and perform housekeeping tasks.
14. Maintain daily logs and required paperwork.
15. Maintain facility grounds cleanliness.
16. Conduct inspections to ensure compliance with regulations.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED and at least one year of heavy equipment operation or related experience. Three years preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to obtain a 16-hour Florida Solid Waste Operator certification within 6 months if not already certified.

Additional Skills and Requirements

• Knowledge of environmental regulations related to solid waste processing.
• Ability to operate various heavy equipment safely and read gauges for diagnostics.
• Skilled in routine preventative maintenance and tool use.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Physical ability to work in waste environments, lift up to 100 pounds, and work in various weather conditions.

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, with Saturdays as needed. Hours may vary based on shift assignments. Flexibility for emergency response is required.

Additional Information

All employees must work before, during, or after emergencies as needed, which may include duties outside normal scope, location, or schedule. The description is not exhaustive of all duties and responsibilities.