Solid Waste Technician

General Statement of Duties/Distinguished Features of the Class

Hiring range is negotiable between $30,040 and $38,752 depending on a candidate's qualifications and experience.

Performs a variety of unskilled to semi-skilled manual labor tasks and duties as required in support of Citywide solid waste operations, to include collection and disposal of refuse, recycled goods, leaves and limbs, white goods, and bulk items. Work is labor intensive and includes the use of basic hand tools to include shovels, rakes, pitch forks, etc. An employee in this category will be expected to assist with all aspects of solid waste collection, transport and disposal. Employee may occasionally operate non-specialized equipment, including the rear loader lift and compactor and leaf truck vacuum, in connection with tasks or perform other related work as required.

Essential Duties and Tasks

• Performs a variety of unskilled manual labor tasks to collect and dispose of refuse, recycled goods, white goods and bulk items Citywide.
• Works on an assigned route with a specific crew to support refuse and recycle or yard and bulk waste operations.
• Follows relevant safety practices in performance of all duties.
• Uses basic hand tools to include shovels, rakes and pitch forks.
• Operates equipment to include the rear loader lift and compactor, and leaf truck vacuum.
• Collects and loads white goods and bulk items, including overflow from the curbside.
• Assists with equipment and machinery daily inspections, to include checking tire conditions and pressures, greasing fittings, flippers and blades, and checking fluid levels.
• Delivers and collects refuse and recycling containers as needed, keeping records to track container locations.
• Performs minor maintenance on refuse and recycle containers to include replacing bars, wheels and lids.
• Washes out all trucks, trailers, and equipment.
• Assists other departments and agencies as needed.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of tools, materials and methods used in the solid waste industry to collect and dispose of refuse, recycle and vegetative debris.
• Knowledge of the operational and preventative maintenance requirements for equipment and vehicles assigned to perform primary duties.
• Knowledge of the occupational hazards and proper safety precautions involved in the operation of assigned equipment and performance of daily responsibilities.
• Knowledge of street locations and the geographic layout of the City.
• Skill in the operation of equipment used in daily tasks.
• Skill in the use of basic hand, gas and or electric tools used in performance of duties.
• Ability to perform strenuous manual work at a steady pace and under austere weather conditions.
• Ability to understand and follow specific instructions, both oral and written.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other co-workers, supervisors and the general public.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to respond courteously to citizens.

Physical Requirements/Special Requirements

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The work is heavy work which requires exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. The work may require specific physical characteristic and abilities such as heightened strength, mobility, dexterity and full range of motion. The following additional physical abilities are also required: climbing, crouching, kneeling, manual dexterity, hearing, mental acuity, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, stooping, talking, visual acuity and walking.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work is generally performed in inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposed to various hazards, including exposure to loud noises, proximity to moving mechanical parts, dangerous and high traffic conditions, exposure to fumes, odors, dusts, gases, and oils. The work environment involves high risks with exposure to potentially dangerous situations or unusual environmental risks which require a range of safety and other precautions. Use of safe work practices with equipment, avoidance of trips and falls, observance of fire regulations and traffic signals are required. Employees will be required to wear other appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks, coats, boots, goggles, gloves, or shield.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One (1) year of experience in maintenance work or related job duties.

• Possession of a valid North Carolina Driver’s License.