Heavy Equipment Operator- Tire Shredder Facility; Suffolk

Position: Heavy Equipment Operator- Tire Shredder Facility (Suffolk)
Salary: $20.86 - $26.60 Hourly
Location : Suffolk, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: HEO TS
Department: Landfill/Solid Waste
Division: Tire Shredder
Opening Date: 02/12/2026

Description
Operates heavy and complex equipment, such as excavators or wheel loaders and yard tractors, in a safe and effective manner.

Examples of Duties
Safely and efficiently operates assigned equipment in loading, compacting solid waste. Depending on location of the assignment, may be required to do any of the following:

• Compact, load, move or transfer shredded tire waste.

Inspects equipment for proper operating condition and loose or worn parts, maintain basic fluid levels on assigned equipment. Reports defects or damage to equipment to the appropriate authority.
Observes instruments and surroundings while vehicle is in motion.
Directs traffic entering and exiting the work area, using verbal commands and hand/arm signals.
Responsible for the proper use, loading, operation, and cleanliness of the equipment.
Reports defects or damage to equipment to the appropriate authority.
Performs routine clerical duties such as completing station logs, field and time reports and requisitions.
Loads trailers in a safe and efficient manner.
Participates in cleanup activities as directed.
Ensures that assigned tasks are done properly, safely, and in a timely manner.

Typical Qualifications
Any combination equivalent to high school graduation and three years in the operation of heavy construction equipment with at least one year as the primary operator of assigned equipment.

Supplemental Information
JOB TITLE:
Heavy Equipment Operator

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
MENTAL, PHYSICAL AND EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
% OF TIME

Operate various types of heavy construction and/or earth moving equipment

Mental ability to read, writes, and comprehends general instructions, safety procedures, and reports. Driving skills. Ability to operate machinery in close working conditions requiring good eye/hand coordination. Perform maintenance checks and minor maintenance on equipment. Ability to use both hands and both feet to operate equipment pedals, levers, steering wheels, and buttons. Physical ability to sit and adapt to constant jerking motions from equipment for extensive periods of time (8 or 10 hour shifts, depending on work location).

Ability to use provided three point support system(s) that enables a person to use simultaneously two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand while ascending, descending or moving about the machine/equipment. Reaching, extending hands and arms above shoulder and in any direction.

70%

Perform minor/major maintenance/upkeep as required.

Manual dexterity to work with hand tools on equipment, surfaces and components. Mental ability to read, writes, and comprehends general instructions and safety procedures.

20%

General cleaning

Physically able to hold and maneuver water hose discharges of 75 psi and lift up to 80 lbs. with assistance.

10%

Remarks:
Requires working in adverse climatic conditions (i.e., dust, odor, hot, cold, rain, snow). Requires wearing appropriate safety gear including safety steel shank boots. Ability to understand oral and written instructions to perform lock-out on equipment being worked on as per SPSA Safety Policy and Programs. Physical and mental capability to work in a confined area for extensive periods. Must be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force at all times and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently.

Must be able to climb, crouch, stoop, handle repetitive motion, walk, be focused, aware, and communicate.

* Sufficient vision and hearing required to perform the essential functions of the job listed above*
SPSA offers a competitive benefits package to all full-time employees.

• Participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) - SPSA and employee contributions
• Short and Long Term Disability Coverage (VRS)
• Health Insurance (Includes Dental, Vision and Behavioral Health Coverage)
• Basic Life Insurance (SPSA paid)
• Delta Dental Insurance
• Aflac Plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• Optional Life Insurance available for Employee and Dependents
• Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Uniforms provided
• Safety shoes and PPE provided

01

How many years of heavy equipment operation experience do you have?

• 0-3 years
• 3-5 years
• 5-10 years
• 10-15 years
• 15-20 years
• 20+ years

02

Are you able to work a flexible work schedule that includes weekends, holidays and varying shifts?

• Yes
• No

03

Describe the type(s) of heavy equipment you are experienced in operating.
Required Question