Refuse Collection Packer Operator (DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS)

City of Detroit; Michigan; On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Detroit is seeking a Refuse Collection Packer Operator for the Department of Public Works. The role requires operating a refuse packer on assigned routes, collecting refuse, unloading at transfer stations, and maintaining records of equipment use.

Applicants must meet Michigan CDL and medical standards and be prepared for strenuous physical labor in all weather. Typical duties include routine vehicle maintenance, inspecting belts and hoses, and ensuring safety compliance.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Two years' experience operating a variety of special purpose vehicles and equipment.
• Must possess a valid Michigan Group B CDL with Air Brake Endorsement and the ability to obtain a Chauffeur License and Group A CDL with Air Brake Endorsement.
• Must meet medical and safety standards per state regulations.

Responsibilities

• Drive refuse packer to assigned route and collect contents of refuse bins.
• Place waste material and refuse into the vehicle collection hopper at collection stops.
• Activate the refuse packer mechanism.
• Transport the contents to transfer station or disposal site and unload.

Skills

Reading route maps

Physical agility

Interacting with public

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Two years experience operating a variety of special purpose vehicles and equipment

Job description

REFUSE COLLECTION PACKER OPERATOR

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

Under general supervision, operate a refuse packer to collect and transport solid waste material and perform strenuous physical labor involved in refuse collection.

1. Drive refuse packer to assigned route and collect contents of refuse bins.
2. Place waste material and refuse into the vehicle collection hopper at collection stops.
3. Activate the refuse packer mechanism.
4. Pick up loose or spilled refuse to ensure all material is collected.
5. Check the amount of loaded refuse to ensure the packer body is not overloaded.
6. Unclog packer mechanisms.
7. Transport the contents of the packer body to a transfer station or disposal site; unload packer body.
8. Report to supervisor on amount of refuse collected.
9. Enter information on equipment operation and refuse collection on prescribed forms.
10. Drive assigned vehicles to sanitation yards and/or repair facilities.
11. Perform routine service on the vehicle, including re-fueling, checking and adding oil, checking tire pressure and adding air when necessary, and battery level check.
12. Inspect the condition of fan belts, windshield wipers, lights, hydraulic and/or pneumatic lines, and report any observable defects.
13. Drive assigned vehicle with mounted snowplow or salt spreader.

High School Diploma or GED; Two (2) years experience operating a variety of special purpose vehicles and equipment.

Licensing and Certifications

Employees certified or promoted to this class must possess a valid State of Michigan Group B Commercial Driver License with Air Brake Endorsement.

Continued employment in this class will require possession of a valid State of Michigan Chauffeur License and Commercial Driver License with a Group A Designation and Air Brake Endorsement.

Successful applicants must meet physical standards prescribed by Michigan State Police Motor Carrier Division and must possess and carry a valid current Medical Examiners Certificate certifying physical fitness for driving in accordance with State of Michigan Motor Carrier Safety Act 1988.

Candidates considered for placement in this classification may be subject to a Criminal Background Investigation based on the requirements of the position.

Evaluation Plan

• Total of Evaluation T.E.P: 100%
• Interview PASS/FAIL

Additional points may be awarded for:

• Veteran Points: 0 – 15 points
• Detroit Residency Credit: 15 point

LRD:02/03/2026

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge Of:

• Operation and minor maintenance of automotive equipment.
• Traffic rules and regulations.

Skill In:

• Reading route maps.
• Physical agility.

Ability To:

• Perform strenuous physical labor.
• Interact effectively with other employees and the public with tact and diplomacy.
• Work in a variety of weather conditions.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Refuse Collection Packer is a field employee. Work is performed in all types of weather and involves wearing gloves, work boots, safety vest, uniform and protective eyewear.