Truck Driver I - Solid Waste

City of Decatur, AL; Decatur (AL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Decatur, AL, is seeking a dependable refuse collection operator to operate a hydraulic-pack truck on assigned routes, load trash, empty bins, and unload at designated disposal sites. The role includes daily vehicle inspections, minor maintenance, and accurate record-keeping.

The ideal candidate will have a CDL, clean driving record, and ability to pass driving tests, physicals, and drug screens. Strong customer service and knowledge of safety protocols are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Current and valid Alabama Class B CDL with clean driving record.
• Ability to pass driving test, pre-employment physical, and random drug testing.
• Sufficient eyesight to operate vehicles safely.
• Knowledge of packer-type refuse trucks and safety practices.
• Knowledge of traffic laws and defensive driving for commercial vehicles.
• Knowledge of city policies related to solid waste collection.
• Ability to read and write reports.

Responsibilities

• Operates a refuse collection truck with hydraulic packer on assigned routes.
• Assists in loading refuse and unloads at landfill or disposal site.
• Conducts daily pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections; performs minor maintenance.
• Completes daily reports and time sheets; maintains accurate records.
• Resolves customer service complaints tactfully and professionally.
• Performs related duties such as cart maintenance and leaf collection as required.

Skills

Safe truck operation

Route planning & management

Customer service

Oral & written communication

Geography knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Class B CDL (AL)

Job description

This position operates a refuse collection truck equipped with a hydraulic packer along assigned routes to collect solid waste in a safe, efficient, and courteous manner. The role includes vehicle maintenance and inspections, customer service, and related duties.

• Operates a refuse collection truck with hydraulic packer and dump in a safe and legal manner on assigned routes.
• Assists in collecting and loading refuse as needed; lifts and dumps refuse containers into the truck; empties garbage cans and loads trash (limbs, leaves, grass, etc.).
• Unloads truck at the landfill or designated disposal site.
• Conducts daily pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections to ensure safety and operability; performs minor maintenance, greasing, cleaning, and reports needed repairs.
• Completes daily reports, time sheets, and maintains accurate records.
• Resolves customer service complaints and deals with citizens in a tactful and diplomatic manner.
• Reports violations of solid waste collection regulations to supervisor.
• Performs related duties such as repairing and maintaining carts, mowing/trimming grass and weeds, assisting with leaf collection, and emergency call-outs as required.

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Sufficient experience in the operation of trucks and related automotive equipment, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having held a similar position for one to two years.
• Must possess and maintain a current and valid Alabama Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a clean driving record.
• Ability to pass a standard driving test, pre-employment physical, and random drug testing.
• Eyesight sufficient to operate vehicles safely; ability to maneuver various sized vehicles.
• Knowledge of the operation, maintenance, and safety principles of packer-type refuse collection trucks and related equipment.
• Knowledge of traffic laws, ordinances, and defensive driving practices applicable to commercial vehicles.
• Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures related to solid waste collection.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and applicable safety precautions in refuse collection operations.
• Skill in the safe operation of large, heavy-duty trucks and associated hydraulic equipment.
• Skill in planning, organization, decision-making, and route management.
• Skill in providing excellent customer service and maintaining effective working relationships with supervisors, crew members, and the public.
• Skill in oral and written communication, including the ability to read, write, and prepare reports.
• Ability to acquire rapid knowledge of city streets, addresses, and geography.

Guidelines

• Guidelines include city and department policies and procedures, traffic laws, and equipment operation manuals. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application.

Complexity/Scope of Work

• The work consists of related vehicle operation, team operations, and manual labor duties. Inclement weather conditions, heavy traffic, and customer interactions contribute to the complexity of the position.
• The purpose of this position is to collect solid waste efficiently and safely. Successful performance contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of city solid waste management functions.

Contacts

• Contacts are typically with co-workers, crew members, supervisors, and the general public.
• Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, provide services, and ensure safe operations.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• The work is typically performed while standing, walking, bending, stooping, crouching, climbing, kneeling, grasping, throwing, and lifting heavy objects. The employee frequently uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• The work is typically performed outdoors, occasionally in extreme or inclement weather (heat, cold, rain, etc.). The employee may be exposed to noise, dust, dirt, grease, machinery with moving parts, traffic hazards, potential biological/chemical hazards from household garbage, contagious diseases, or irritating chemicals. The work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, or gloves.
• Requires physical strength and endurance for heavy manual labor, walking on uneven/rough terrain, and prolonged sitting while driving.

Supervisory and Management Responsibility

• None.