Solid Waste Operator I

City of Unalaska; Dutch Harbor (AK); On-site; USD 45,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical premiums

Life insurance

Relocation assistance

Travel allowance

Tuition reimbursement

PERS Retirement

457 Retirement Plans

Personal Leave

Holidays

Job summary

City of Unalaska is hiring a Solid Waste Operator I in Unalaska, Alaska. This entry-level role works under supervision in the solid waste facility, performing a mix of manual tasks outdoors. You may handle loading areas, operate basic tools, and learn waste processing while meeting safety standards.

The job requires a high school diploma or GED, with favorable regard for one year of labor experience. CDL preparation within 90 days is required, with testing and U.S. work eligibility.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform light maintenance and care for tools.
• Knowledge to use power tools and operate loader/forklift equipment.
• Direct traffic to unloading areas and assist with waste processing.
• Learn solid waste process and follow safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Perform various unskilled and skilled manual tasks at the solid waste facility.
• Work outside, in unheated structures, with odors and hazards.
• Follow instructions and work from sketches or drawings.
• Ensure safe handling of household hazardous waste and refuse.

Skills

Power tools

Loader forklift

Traffic direction

Safety compliance

Waste process learning

Outdoor work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

OPEN DATE: August 25, 2026
CLOSE DATE: Until Filled
POSITION: Solid Waste Operator I
SALARY: $32.77 - $38.01/hourly [Union Position Hiring range - Step 1-6]

The City of Unalaska is accepting applications for the Solid Waste Operator I position. Located in the number one commercial fishing port in the United States, the International Port of Dutch Harbor, Unalaska, Alaska, is a coastal community in the Eastern Aleutian Islands with a multi-cultural population of approximately 4,250 full-time residents and seasonal influxes from multiple commercial fishery operations.

The following duties are not intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all employee tasks in this classification.

The duties shown are designed to provide a representative summary.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This is an entry-level position that, under the direct supervision of the Solid Waste Operations Supervisor, performs various unskilled and skilled manual tasks at the solid waste facility. Working outside and in unheated structures with offensive odors is necessary, along with the physical effort inherent in the work.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Ability to perform light maintenance, care for tools, follow verbal and written instructions, and work from sketches and drawings. Must have the working knowledge and ability to use power tools and operate a loader/forklift equipment. Must serve the public efficiently and in a friendly manner by directing traffic to specific unloading areas. Must be able to learn the solid waste process, including but not limited to screening waste and utilizing specific equipment and safety regulations when dealing with household hazardous waste and other refuse. Be comfortable with exposure to offensive odors, noise, and direct contact with hazardous materials.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

High school diploma or GED required

One year of labor experience assisting skilled workers preferred

Other combinations of education and experience that could provide knowledge, skills, abilities, and certification listed will be evaluated on an individual basis

LICENSES & SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Required to have or be able to obtain an Alaska Class B CDL Permit with N Endorsement within 90 days from the date of hire

Ability to pass all required pre-employment testing, i.e., criminal background and work history and a drug test

Must be eligible to work in the US; if hired, must complete employment eligibility verification form (I-9) as required by Federal law.

Ability to work outside in adverse weather conditions and darkness. Ability to work nontraditional hours if necessary

Maintain active and current certifications and licensing for the duration of employment

BENEFITS:

100% employer-paid medical premiums (employee & dependents)

100% employer-paid basic life/AD&D insurance (employee & dependents)

100% employer-paid LifeMed insurance (employee & dependents)

Free Parks, Culture, and Recreation Membership (employee only)

Relocation assistance (taxable) up to $7,000, plus airfare for the employee and one family member, if applicable

Travel allowance of $2,500 every year on the date of hire after 1st year of employment

Longevity bonus of $2,000 beginning on the third (3rd) year anniversary

Personal Leave starting at 16 hours a month

10 paid Holidays and 3 Floating Holidays per year

Eligible for 457 Retirement Plans with MissionSquare and other Voluntary Benefits

Eligible for PERS Retirement (Public Employees Retirement System)

Up to 100% Tuition Reimbursement (must be taken while employed; refer to Title 3 for details)

CITY OF UNALASKA
Department of Administration
43 Raven Way, P.O. Box 610
Unalaska, AK 99685

Questions? Please call us at [phone]

Contact Number:

907-581-1252
Fax:[phone]

Hours of Operation:

Monday through Friday
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
(Except Municipal Holidays)

City of Unalaska • 43 Raven Way • P.O. Box 610 • Unalaska, Alaska 99685 • [phone]