Heavy Equipment Operator

Position Summary

The Heavy Equipment Operator ensures the safe operation of heavy equipment at the Transfer Station for the purpose of transferring and loading materials in an efficient and safe manner; operates one or more types of yellow iron equipment.

The starting pay range for this position is $23-$26 per hour based on experience

Key Responsibilities

• Opens and closes the facility according to scheduled hours of operation.
• Oversees the schedule of where and which trucks are to dump and switching out trailers.
• Ensures public areas of the transfer station clean at all times; follows schedule per Operation Manager for daily, weekly and monthly facility cleaning schedules.
• Ensures that customers (external and internal) use the transfer station according to all safety rules and regulations.
• Meets loading schedules to assure driver loads are ready to meet production.
• Directs incoming trucks and vehicles to appropriate unloading areas in a safe manner.
• Follows all safety and equipment checks and precautions in the performance of all duties.
• Sites all mechanical problems that arise during pre-trip inspection or during routine functions to the attention of the shop foreman immediately.
• Participates in training and other learning opportunities to expand knowledge of the company, products, sales and services and performs any other duties needed to help drive our vision, fulfill our mission, and/or abide by our core values.

Career Path Definitions & Distinctions:

Apprentice: 0-2 years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to operate one type of yellow iron equipment. Possesses a complete knowledge and understanding of safety protocols and procedures necessary for operating the equipment.

Operator I: 2-4 years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to safely operate two types of yellow iron equipment involved in composting operations. Possesses a strong knowledge and understanding of safety protocols and procedures necessary for operating the equipment.

Operator II: 4-6 years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to safely operate three types of yellow iron equipment involved in composting operations. Possesses an expert level knowledge and understanding of safety protocols and procedures necessary for operating the equipment.

Lead Operator: 6+ years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to develop training plans and mentor employees to achieve successful outcomes. Demonstrates the capability to operate all types of yellow iron equipment involved in composting operations. Exhibits an ability to prioritize, delegate, and communicate clearly to the team and managers.

Education, Experience & Qualifications

The successful candidate will be a self-directed person, at least 18 years of age, have a demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and be legally eligible to work in the US. It is required to have a high school diploma or GED and two years of prior experience in heavy equipment operation is preferred. Physical ability to perform duties in various weather conditions.

Proven commitment to work and safety, excellent communication and problem solving skills are required.

Attributes

Positive, team-oriented individual who has a strong work ethic, is committed to safety, customer driven, open to personal and professional training and development, and results-oriented with the ability to see the larger picture while focusing on detailed information.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Disability Insurance, Maternity & Parental Leave, Flexible Spending Accounts, Discounted Stock Program, 401K, Employee Awards, Employee Assistance Plan, Wellness Incentive, Tuition Assistance, Career Pathways, and More.

Benefits & RewardsWant easy-to-use, rewarding benefits? Well, we’ve got those! Our employee rewards program is designed to help you in your career, and in your life outside of Casella. From competitive wages to comprehensive medical plans to employee stock purchase and retirement savings options, learn about all the ways we reward you.

EEO

Casella Waste Systems, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an environment of inclusion and mutual respect where opportunities are available to all applicants and team members without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, military and veteran status, status as individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state laws. We believe that diversity and inclusion among our team members is critical to our success as a company and we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people.

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Job Locations US-NY-Hopewell Junction

Job ID 2026-10167

Category Equipment Operators

Type Regular Full-Time