Solid Waste Operator

Job Description:

Solid Waste Operator

Description

Summary

Under general supervision, the Solid Waste Operator performs waste collection, operating a large garbage truck in residential and commercial spaces throughout the City. This position assists with a variety of skilled and semi-skilled, regular and recurring tasks in maintenance and repair work.

Essential Functions

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Performs regular and recurring maintenance tasks; maintains tools and equipment related to work properly; inspects all equipment and tools prior to use to ensure safe operating conditions; fills out any needed reports for defective equipment.
• Drives to disposal sites to empty trucks that have been filled; drives trucks along established routes and through residential streets and alleys; drives trucks through business and industrial areas.
• Operates equipment that compresses the collected refuse; operates automated or semi-automated hoisting devices that raise refuse bins and dump contents into openings in truck bodies.
• Dismounts garbage trucks to collect garbage and re-mounts trucks to ride to the next collection point.
• Communicates with the supervisor concerning any delays, unsafe sites, accidents, equipment breakdowns, or other maintenance problems/issues.
• Keeps up-to-date and stays informed of road and weather conditions; analyzes information to determine how routes will be affected.
• Receives and responds to questions from the public within scope of authority; investigates and works towards resolution on citizen complaints; reports complaints to supervisor.
• Completes required reports and maintenance records; follows strict time schedule; follows change orders on a daily and weekly basis.
• Assists with programs and special events; assists in planning, designing, and/or implementing new projects as assigned.
• Supervises, trains, and directs the work assignments of seasonal staff.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Materials and equipment used in maintenance and repair work.
• Safety regulations, department policies, and City policies.
• Mechanical basics and vocabulary to describe equipment problems.
• Customer service best practices.
• Relevant laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Office practices and computer basics.

Skill in:

• Driving a large truck in tight/confined spaces and backing into narrow alleys and streets using mirrors only.
• Operating tools and equipment safely.
• Committing all routes to memory.
• Performing heavy manual labor for extended periods of time in all types of weather.
• Troubleshooting maintenance problems and determining materials and supplies for repair.
• Organizing and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.
• Interacting tactfully and professionally with City staff, outside agencies, and the public.
• Maintaining record and files on work performed.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Must possess a valid State driver's license.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B with Air Brakes is required.
• First Aid, CPR, and AED Certification is required within six (6) months of hire.

BENEFITS

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurances
• Life Insurance policy
• Employee Assistance Program
• Department of Retirement Systems Retirement Plan
• Paid vacation, holidays and sick leave
• Gym Membership reimbursement
• Teamsters Pension
• Deferred Compensation (voluntary)

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume with their application. Please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/mtvernonwa to apply online. Applications must be received no later than 11:59 pm on Sunday, November 2, 2025. For additional information, or a complete job description, please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/mtvernonwa/classspecs

The City of Mount Vernon provides and enforces a drug free workplace and maintains a smoke free work environment.

The City of Mount Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• Medical, dental and vision insurances.
• Life Insurance policy
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Department of Retirement Systems Retirement Plan.
• Paid vacation, holidays and sick leave.
• Gym Membership Reimbursement
• Teamster Pension
• Deferred Compensation (voluntary)

Closing Date/Time: 11/2/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$66,876.00 - $84,720.00 Annually