Equipment Operator I - Solid Waste

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I - SOLID WASTE
Category: Full-Time
Status: Open
Hourly: Min. $20.759 - Mid. $25.949 effective 10/1/2026
Published: September 25, 2026
Closing: Until Filled

DEFINITION
To drive trucks and light equipment; collection and transportation of solid waste, heavy trash and recyclable.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is in the entry level class in the Equipment Operator class series. Employees in this class normally work under close supervision performing a group of repetitive or closely related duties according to established procedures. Positions assigned to this class can be distinguished from higher level classes by responsibility for operating a limited range of light and moderate equipment and vehicles.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from higher level solid waste maintenance personnel.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Drive, and may operate, light to moderate solid waste equipment on routine assignments or on a training basis, trash truck and rear loading garbage trucks.
• Participate in working with a small solid waste crew in completing work orders.
• Perform tasks as related to recycling and composting.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
For indefinite periods of time - mobility within a field environment; exposure to mechanical, dust/mites, fume, and odor hazards; exposure to extreme cold, heat, and constant noise; walking; twisting body; stooping; standing; squatting; sorting; sitting; seeing; pushing, dragging and pulling up to 50 pounds; lifting and carrying up to 40 pounds; kneeling; climbing; reading; decision making; reaching above shoulder level; using both hands for simple and firm grasping; clarity of hearing; communicating clearly and effectively, in person and by two-way radio; fine finger manipulation; safe operation of shovel, pitch fork, rack, and chain saw; operating a trash truck through city traffic.

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:

• Solid waste and trash collection tools and equipment.
• Methods employed in basic laboring and maintenance work.
• Safety precautions used in refuse collection work.

Ability to:

• Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Perform heavy physical labor.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Some experience in the operation of light construction equipment and vehicles. A High School Diploma or GED is desirable.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES
Possession of a valid Texas Driver’s License as well as a valid Texas Class B Commercial Driver's License.

*Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.

*Duties, responsibilities and actions may change at any time with or without notice.

The City of La Porte is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Qualified Individuals.