Transfer Station Operator I (OPEN & PROMOTIONAL)

Spokane County; United States; On-site; USD 48,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Spokane County is seeking a Regular Transfer Station Worker to support solid waste operations. The role includes screening loads, sorting materials, assisting customers, and performing safety checks on equipment.

Requires a High School diploma or GED and at least 1 year of related experience; a valid driver's license and HazMat certifications within 6 months are required. Work is outdoors with physical activity and occasional travel within the county.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 1 year of related work experience (wastewater, construction, equipment operations, or manual labor).
• Must possess a valid driver's license; OSHA HazMat and/or 24Hr HAZWOPER certification must be obtained within 6 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Visually screen incoming loads and direct customers to proper drop-off location.
• Receive, collect, and sort materials for disposal at appropriate sites.
• Provide information to customers regarding disposal and recycling procedures, fees, rules and options.
• Learn to operate equipment as needed for Transfer Station operations.
• Perform daily safety checks, fueling, maintenance, and inspection of equipment.

Skills

Safety training

Customer service

Physical stamina

Communication

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Employee Type: Regular Department: Solid Waste Salary: $47,756.80 - $66,497.60 Annually / $3,979.73 - $5,541.47 Monthly / $22.96 - $31.97 Hourly Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 Overtime Eligible: Yes

Job Posting Date Range: 08/03/2026 - Until Filled

Job Summary

WHO MAY APPLY: This recruitment is open to all applicants meeting the minimum requirements. Priority consideration will be given to Spokane County employees in a position covered by PROTEC17 bargaining unit applying 8.3.2026-8.17.2026 The position allocated to this class performs lower-level work involved in transfer station operations, including customer flow, recycling operations, general housekeeping, as well as performing a variety of other job duties. Work is performed under the direction of Transfer Station Site Supervisor and the Transfer Stations Operations Manager.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Visually screens incoming loads of material for acceptability and directs or assists customers in a courteous and professional manner to move materials to proper drop off location.
• Receive, collect, and sort materials for disposal at appropriate sites.
• Provides information and assistance to customers in a professional, courteous, and tactful manner regarding disposal and recycling procedures, fees, rules, policies, and options.
• Through training, learn and acquire skills to operate equipment efficiently and competently as needed for Transfer Station operations.
• Performs daily safety checks, maintenance, fueling, and inspection of the equipment.
• Maintains time and equipment records.
• Advise supervisor or a designee and/or the appropriate department as to potential hazards or needed repairs to the facility or equipment.
• Performs a wide range of transfer station tasks including attending household hazardous waste, and recycling area drop off locations.
• Performs cleaning, sweeping, and litter pick up to keep facility and site in a presentable and clean condition.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

High School Diploma or GED equivalent. One (1) year of work experience in wastewater, construction, equipment Operations or other manual labor profession. *Note: one year as a TSO1 and recommendation from Operations Manager to promote to a TSO2

LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS

Possession of a valid driver's license at time of employment and for the duration of employment. OSHA HazMat Certification and/or 24Hr HAZWOPER Certification must be obtained within six (6) months of hire date.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with co-workers and supervisors.
• Ability to pass required safety and equipment operation training.
• Ability to deal with citizens in an informed and courteous manner.
• Ability to maintain effective working relations with co-workers and supervisors.
• Ability to perform medium to heavy physical labor for extended periods of time.
• Ability to explain, demonstrate and clarify to others applying established policies, procedures and standards as well as the ability to follow specific instructions and respond to requests from others.
• Ability to verbally communicate effectively with co-workers, supervisors, management, other agencies and the general public.
• Ability to demonstrate physical ability to complete any and all job-related tasks.
• Ability to use and/or operate tools, equipment and applicable machinery proficiently and safely.

BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS

All County employees are responsible for contributing to a safe and positive work environment, actively demonstrating the County values in their daily work and interactions:

Respect: Appreciating and valuing customers, other County employees and County leadership by showing courtesy, friendliness and fairness. Communicating in a productive and professional manner.

Accountability: Honoring and delivering on commitments by taking responsibility for personal actions and results; being a responsible steward of public resources and the trust County residents have placed in each of us.

Integrity: Modelling transparent and ethical behavior and demonstrating it with honest and trustworthy behaviors and actions; leading by example and performing work to the highest standards.

Innovation: Striving for excellence by actively pursuing opportunities for new and improved methods, procedures or technologies; fostering an environment of engagement and empowerment and embracing continuous improvement.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in both an office environment and on-site at the Transfer Station. Work requires standing, walking, crawling, climbing, using equipment and lifting up to 50 pounds. Work is also performed outdoors; and requires occasional travel within the County, exposing the associate to weather extremes, various forms of precipitation and the hazards associated with travel on public roads. Hazards: Exposure to municipal and hazardous solid wastes, adverse weather conditions, traffic, dust, dirt, and odiferous conditions required. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. As every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may reasonably be considered incidental in the performing of their duties as though they were included in this job description.

Total Compensation

$61,129 - $85,117 Annually. Total compensation is an estimate based upon base compensation, median retirement fund contributions, and current employer-paid health and related benefit contribution rates (including medical, dental, life insurance, long term disability, and leave). The actual total will vary depending upon each employee's enrollment choices.

Please select the link below to view Spokane County Benefits: Benefits | Spokane County, WA

Here are just a few reasons

Community Impact: Many people find fulfillment in public service, knowing their work has a positive impact on the lives of Spokane County residents. Whether through public safety, infrastructure projects, or social services, employees can make a meaningful difference in residents' lives while contributing to the overall well‑being and development of the community.

Diverse Job Opportunities: Spokane County employs a diverse workforce, offering positions in fields such as law enforcement, social services, animal control, parks and recreation, administration, and more. This diversity allows for many employment opportunities for individuals with different backgrounds and skill sets.

Job Stability and Benefits: Spokane County offers competitive salaries and benefits packages, including healthcare, vacation time, and retirement and pension plans that provide long-term financial security for employees.

Career Growth: There are various opportunities for career advancement within Spokane County. We invest in employee training and professional development, enhancing employees' skills and qualifications.

Work-Life Balance: We emphasize work-life balance, with reasonable work hours and policies that support employee well‑being. If you’re seeking stability and a predictable schedule, you’re in the right place!

Inclusive Workplace Culture: Spokane County aims to foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion among its employees.

Spokane boasts: Natural Beauty: Spokane is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including rivers, lakes, and nearby mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating. From golf course to parks and trails along the Spokane River, there’s something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors.

Affordable Living: Compared to many other cities on the West Coast, Spokane has a relatively low cost of living. Housing prices are more affordable, making it easier to buy a home or rent.

Four Seasons: Spokane experiences all four seasons distinctly. Summers are warm and dry, while winters bring snowfall, making it ideal for those who enjoy seasonal variety.

Cultural Scene: The city has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Events such as the Spokane Symphony and First Friday art walks contribute to the city's cultural richness.

Community Feel: Spokane is known for its friendly and welcoming community. It has a strong sense of local pride and community involvement.

Educational Opportunities: The city is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational and cultural opportunities. This includes Gonzaga University, Washington State University Spokane, Whitworth University, and Eastern Washington University.

Healthcare Facilities: Spokane boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Deaconess Hospital, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care.

Family-Friendly: With good schools, safe neighborhoods, and numerous family-oriented activities, Spokane is a great place to raise a family.

Central Location: Spokane's location in eastern Washington makes it a hub for travel throughout the Pacific Northwest. It's close to other major cities like Seattle and Portland, as well as outdoor destinations like national parks and recreation areas. Overall, Spokane offers a balanced lifestyle with a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural amenities, and community spirit, making it a desirable place to live and work!

Click to learn more about our extensive benefits package.