Refuse Collection Packer Operator

Salary : $44,465.00 - $52,681.00 Annually
Location : Detroit, Michigan, MI
Job Type: Certified-Regular Civil Service
Job Number: 20254618111DPWmm
Department: Dept of Public Works
Division: Solid Waste Management
Opening Date: 06/12/2026
Bargaining Unit: 8000-Teamsters Local 214 Craft Unit


Description


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

Examples of Duties

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.

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

Supplemental Information

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
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.
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.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
The City of Detroit offers a competitive and comprehensive employee benefit package. We pride ourselves on the longevity of our employees. Part of the reason for the low turnover rate is the exceptional benefit package listed below. Benefits include, but are not limited to the following:

HEALTH

• Medical - Eligible for hospital, surgical, and prescription drug benefits.
• Dental
• Vision

INSURANCE

• Life Insurance - Optional group insurance available to employee and their family. The City pays 60% of premium for first $12,500 of employee life insurance. Employee may purchase, at own expense, life insurance for spouse and each dependent.
• Long-Term Disability Insurance (Income Protection Plan) - The City offers disability insurance through payroll deductions for persons who become disabled and who are not yet eligible for a service retirement.

PAID TIME OFF

• Sick Leave
• Vacation
• Holidays

OTHER LEAVE BENEFITS
The City also has the following paid and unpaid leaves; funeral leave, Family and Medical Leave, jury duty, military duty leave, unpaid personal leave,

RETIREMENT BENEFITS
City Employees Retirement System
As a regular City employee you automatically become a member of the General Retirement System. This entitles you to a retirement allowance after:
• Completion of thirty (30) years of service;
- At age sixty (60) if you have at least ten (10) years of service, or


- At age sixty-five (65) with eight (8) years of service.
• In the event of disability, other eligibility rules apply);
- An early, actuarially reduced, retirement is offered after you have attained at least twenty-five (25) years of service;
• Employees are vested after ten (10) years of service, regardless of age.


ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES - Employees have many opportunities for growth and career advancement throughout all City departments and divisions.
Have a successful career with the City of Detroit . Always remember that you are a part of a team with a common Vision of delivering excellent service to the citizens of the City of Detroit