Sanitation Equipment Operator I

Salary: $19.75 - $24.69 Hourly
Location : Newton, NC
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 00269
Department: Public Works - Sanitation
Opening Date: 06/29/2026
Closing Date: 7/31/2026 5:00 PM Eastern
Job Details: Hiring Range for this position is $19.7530 - $24.6913 per hour depending on qualifications. No experience necessary. On the job training is provided. Eligible for probationary increases up to 5% in the first 6 months.
Disclaimer: The City of Newton is a tobacco and drug free workplace. Applicants are subject to pre-employment drug and background screening. Equal Opportunity Employer.


Description

Primary Reason Why Classification Exists
To perform routine operation of large trucks and other automotive equipment in the municipal sanitation division of the Public Works and Utilities Department


Distinguishing Features of the Class
Employees in this class primarily operate large specialty trucks designed to collect garbage, yard waste, brush, refuse, and recyclables from residences and businesses. Emphasis of the work is on operating a sanitation collection truck (rear packer) to collect garbage from residential and business districts. Work in this class may be limited to one or more pieces of equipment based on lack of skills in larger more complicated equipment or not having a higher level commercial driver's license (CDL-A). Work also includes performing one or more tasks normally associated with Sanitation Workers and other manual labor personnel as required including assisting other work crews in other divisions within the City. Work occurs in all weather conditions and includes working holidays and possibly working overtime. Work is supervised by the Solid Waste Management Supervisor or Superintendent and is evaluated on the basis of attaining performance objectives, safe operation of equipment, and completion of assigned route.

Illustrative Examples of Work

• Drives a sanitation truck on an assigned route for curbside collection of waste and recyclables from residences and businesses
• If trained and certified, may operate a front loading garbage truck, rear loading garbage truck, chipper truck and chipper, and hook lift truck
• Checks vital working parts of the trucks; performs routine preventative repairs to vehicles including replacement of parts; reports maintenance needs to the superintendent
• Provides information to residents and business owners regarding sanitation collection policies and procedures; refers complaints to supervisory personnel if not resolved
• Assembles automated garbage cans, delivers them to residences, and makes repairs to cans as needed.
• Participates in cleaning of vehicles including washing, steaming, and cleaning interior
• Performs related work as required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• General knowledge of practices of operating large specialty trucks and other equipment to which assigned
• General knowledge of the traffic laws and regulations governing equipment operation
• General knowledge of the geographical layout of the City including streets and other arterials
• General knowledge of the occupational hazards involved and the safety precautions necessary to the proper operation of varied construction and maintenance equipment
• Skill in the operation of equipment to which assigned
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions; ability to explain policies and procedures to citizens and businesses
• Ability to make minor repairs and adjustments to equipment
• Ability to establish and maintain relationships with coworkers, supervisors, and the public
• Ability to respond back to work for emergencies or in support of other personnel as required

Requirements

Physical Requirements
This is heavy work requiring the exertion of 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Work requires driving a large truck or other equipment for extended periods of time, climbing, balancing, stooping, crouching, reaching, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions. Vocal communication is required to communicate with other workers and the public. Hearing is required to perceive spoken words and other sounds encountered in the course of work (sirens, automobiles, horns, and others). Visual acuity is required for moving equipment, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work performed, and observing general surroundings and activities to ensure safety.


Education and Experience
Graduation from high school or GED equivalency and 1 - 4 years experience in the operation of heavy equipment such as a sanitation truck (rear packer), dump truck, or equivalent


Special Requirement

• Valid North Carolina commercial driver's license (CDL-B); a CDL-A is preferred
• Certified in First aid and CPR

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Do you have at least a Commercial Driver's License Class B?

• Yes
• No

Required Question