Solid Waste Heavy Equipment Operator I

Solid Waste Heavy Equipment Operator

The Solid Waste Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the daily operation of various heavy and light solid waste equipment and trucks. The operator ensures safe and efficient operation of equipment, performs daily inspections and maintenance, and addresses operational and safety issues promptly. Operators report directly to Integrated Waste Management Supervisors.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Operation and Maintenance

• Operate various heavy equipment, including but not limited to roll-off trucks, small wheel loaders, bale trucks, water wagons, and forklifts.
• Perform and document safety and maintenance inspections on all equipment before and after operation (equipment walkaround).
• Identify, monitor, and report operational issues with equipment and conditions at the Landfill.
• Clean and remove debris from equipment, including tracks, axles, wheels, and interior of the equipment cab to ensure visibility and proper function.

Safety and Compliance

• Communicate safety concerns or operational problems to the Supervisor promptly for corrective action.
• Maintains accurate maintenance logs and inspection reports.
• Follow safety protocols and use necessary safety equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, coveralls, and safety boots.

Competencies The following competencies are key to success in this role, enabling effective contribution, collaboration, and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.

• Skilled in operating heavy machinery, such as roll-off truck, small front-end loaders, and other waste management vehicles.
• Ability to become skilled in operating heavy equipment such as trash compactors, mid-sized front-end loaders, off-road articulating dump trucks.
• Ability to become semi-skilled in operating bulldozers, wheeled backhoe, material handler, and excavators and other equipment as needed.
• Skill in identifying minor equipment issues and performing routine maintenance tasks like greasing, filter blow-out, and replenish diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system.
• Ability to maintain accurate records of equipment use, maintenance logs, and operational reports.

Physical Requirements

Must have full manual dexterity in both hands and feet. Good hand/eye coordination, vision and hearing with or without correction. Must be able to sit, walk, and stand for extended periods. Must be able to wear protective clothing. Operation of trucks and all heavy equipment outlined in the Solid Waste Division Heavy Equipment Operator Step Program specific to Solid Waste Heavy Equipment Operator (SWHEO I) is required. Very frequent lifting of 30 pounds or less, frequent lifting of 30 pounds or more, some lifting of 50 pounds is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Environmental Conditions and Work Hazards

Must be able to function in air-conditioned vehicles and outside at various sites around the Landfill in all weather conditions. Must also be able to move from one environmental condition to another frequently. General occupational hazard of being around heavy equipment, working in/around the Baling and Recycling Facility site, in a solid waste industrial environment, and in all elements (heat, dust, rain, garbage).

Safety Equipment & Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Employees are required to adhere to all safety protocols and utilize appropriate safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) provided to ensure a safe working environment. Specific requirements include:

• Mandatory PPE: Employees must wear designated PPE, which may include safety goggles, gloves, hard hats, hearing protection, and respiratory masks, depending on the tasks performed.
• Safety Training: All employees will receive training on the proper use and maintenance of safety equipment and PPE to minimize risks and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Inspection and Maintenance: Employees are responsible for regularly inspecting their PPE for wear and tear and reporting any damaged equipment to their supervisor for replacement.
• Emergency Equipment: Familiarity with the location and use of emergency equipment, such as Offroad water wagon, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and eyewash stations, is required.

Supplemental Information

This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position. While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary that are a logical assignment to the position.

Emergency Response/Recovery Activities: County employees are considered essential personnel in providing and continuing services to our community during and following a disaster, such as a hurricane, or in other emergency situations. As a requirement of County employment, County employees are subject to being required to remain at work during an event, respond to a recall immediately following an event and/or immediately reporting to work when an all clear is declared by the County Administrator. During these types of events, County employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.

ADA Statement: A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

EEO Statement: St. Lucie County BOCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws.

Qualifications

Candidates should possess a solid foundational background that demonstrates their ability to engage with the responsibilities of the role effectively.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least one (1) year of experience in the daily operation of heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of heavy equipment operation, safety practices, and maintenance procedures.
• Familiarity with operational requirements for landfill equipment and equipment inspection.
• Ability to communicate effectively with both coworkers and supervisors, write clearly, read and understand technical manuals related to operation of equipment.
• Ability to understand and comply with oral and written instructions.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Must be available to work scheduled/unscheduled overtime, including evenings, weekends, holidays and/or immediate response to emergency situations/conditions as required.
• Valid Florida Driver's License with a good driving record.

Additional Information

Pay Grade T07

Driving Position – Operating County vehicles and/or equipment is a primary function of this position.

This is a union position.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING: This position requires a physical, drug testing, driver's license verification and level 1 background screening.