Heavy Equipment Operator - Solid Waste

Lee County; Fort Myers (FL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading county government is seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator for the Solid Waste department. The role involves operating various heavy machinery, performing safety inspections, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma and experience in heavy construction equipment operation, with opportunities for certification in solid waste operations. This position requires physical stamina and effective communication skills, contributing to a vital community service during emergencies.

Qualifications

• Requires education equivalent to High School graduation and one year heavy construction equipment operation.
• Three years of experience in operating heavy construction equipment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operates heavy machinery such as front-loaders and backhoes.
• Performs routine vehicle and equipment safety checks.
• Assists customers with correct disposal practices.

Skills

Heavy Equipment Operation

Communication Skills

Environmental Compliance

Education

High School graduation or GED equivalent

Tools

Tools for preventative maintenance

Job description

This is skilled work responsible for the safe and proficient operation of motorized heavy equipment within the Solid Waste department. This position works out of the Resource Recovery Facility on Buckingham Road.

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

• Heavy Equipment Operation: Operates machinery such as front-loaders, backhoes, excavators, and skid steers.

• Vehicle Operation: Drives Class E vehicles including pick-up trucks and other light-duty vehicles.

• Safety Inspections: Performs and documents routine vehicle and equipment safety checks in accordance with County and industry standards.

• Functionality Testing: Conducts tests on vehicles and equipment to identify any malfunctions.

• Preventative Maintenance: Performs light maintenance such as greasing parts, cleaning radiators and filters, refilling fluids, replacing filters, hydraulic lines, and grease fittings.

• Traffic Control: Implements traffic control procedures and manages tipping floor traffic.

• Communication: Uses universal traffic hand signals and two-way radios to communicate effectively.

• Waste Screening: Inspects incoming waste for prohibited or unauthorized materials.

• Waste Classification: Identifies different waste types to apply appropriate disposal charges.

• Material Handling: Engages in solid waste handling activities such as sorting, segregating, relocating, building windrows, loading, compacting, and recycling materials into appropriate containers.

• Customer Interaction: Assists customers and educates the public on correct disposal practices and facility locations.

• Team Coordination: Works with contractors and personnel from other County departments.

• Vehicle & Equipment Sanitation : Washes vehicles and equipment, cleans interiors, and performs general housekeeping tasks.

• Documentation: Completes daily work logs and maintains required paperwork.

• Grounds Maintenance: Maintains cleanliness of facility grounds through sweeping, shoveling, and dust/litter control.

• Facility Inspections: Conducts inspections to ensure operations comply with all permitted and environmental regulations.

Education and Experience:

• Requires any combination of education and experience equivalent to High School graduation or GED equivalent and one year heavy construction equipment operation or closely related experience.
• Three years of experience in operating heavy construction equipment is preferred.

Driver's License:

• Possession of a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record is required.

Certification:

• 16-hour Florida Solid Waste Operator certification or Ability to obtain certification within 6 months of employment.

• Environmental Complianc e: Knowledge of Environmental Solid Waste Processing Regulations.

• Heavy Equipment Operation: Demonstrated ability to operate various types of heavy equipment safely and effectively.

• Equipment Diagnostics: Ability to read and interpret gauges and identify malfunctions in equipment and commercial vehicles.

• Preventative Maintenance: Skilled in performing routine preventative maintenance to ensure proper equipment functioning.

• Tool Proficiency: Knowledge and proper use of tools commonly used in preventative maintenance tasks.

• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, with coworkers, supervisors, and the public.

• Physical Requirements: Must be able to work in and around solid waste environments; lift and carry up to 100 pounds; and stand, crawl, sit, or kneel as needed throughout the workday. Must also be able to work in varying weather conditions.

Work Schedule: Regular schedule is Monday through Friday, with Saturdays as needed. Specific hours and days may vary depending on the assigned shift.