Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Heavy Equipment Mechanic – Solid Waste

We’re looking for an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our Kootenai County Solid Waste Team. This is a skilled, journey-level position for someone who knows heavy equipment, takes pride in doing the job right, and can confidently and safely operate in challenging terrain, changing weather, and demanding conditions.

• Competitive Pay
  : $25.73 to $29.30 per hour depending on experience
• Amazing Benefits
  :
  Enjoy an exceptional benefits package, including health care for eligible employees and their dependents through our free medical clinic
  , offering primary care, medications, lab services, and more
• Generous Paid Time Off
  :
  Earn up to 8 hours of vacation each month, with increases based on your years of service. We believe in giving you time to relax and recharge!
• Secure Your Future
  :
  Benefit from a strong retirement plan through the Public Employees Retirement System of Idaho (PERSI), so you can feel confident about your future.
• Career Growth
  :
  Opportunities for advancement and eligibility for public student loan forgiveness.

• Operate heavy equipment including compactors, dozers, scrapers, excavators, loaders, dump trucks, and graders.
• Push, bury, compact, and cover solid waste while maintaining proper grades and compaction levels.
• Haul and place cover soil and assist with landfill cell construction and site development.
• Read and interpret survey stakes, plans, drawings, specifications, GPS data, and grade information.
• Use specialized equipment such as surveying tools, lasers, GPS equipment, pumps, compressors, and two-way radios.
• Perform pre- and post-operation inspections and routine preventative maintenance, including lubrication, fueling, and equipment checks.
• Identify mechanical issues, report repair needs, and assist mechanics when necessary.
• Monitor incoming waste and identify potentially hazardous or unacceptable materials.
• Support traffic control, vehicle screening, litter control, erosion control, snow removal, landscaping, fencing, liner installation, and general facility maintenance.
• Follow all applicable safety, environmental, landfill, and regulatory requirements.
• Help train and mentor other employees and provide support to crews when needed.
• Work independently, recognize priorities, troubleshoot challenges, and make sound decisions in the field.
• Assist with site development and operational planning by anticipating potential impacts and identifying practical solutions.
• Explore the full job description to see if this role is the right fit for you.

You’ll work outdoors in all types of weather
, sometimes around loud machinery, fumes, odors, hazardous materials, chemicals, and uneven or challenging terrain. The position may require lifting and carrying heavy objects, as well as stooping, kneeling, crouching, or working in awkward positions.

• High school diploma or GED
• At least 5 years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must possess a Class “A” commercial drivers license with tanker endorsements and be insurable.
• Knowledgeable about diesel/automotive mechanics.
• Ability to troubleshoot and fix hydraulics, electrical, and heavy equipment systems.
• Ability to work independently, set your own priorities, and keep things moving.
• Able to work occasional weekends, holidays, or after-hours.

• Scale House Training Certification
• Forklift Operations Certification
• Waste Screening Certification
• Traffic Flagging Certification

• Valid First Aid card and CPR Certification
• Certification for Hazardous Waste Operations
• CFC Removal Certification

You’ll be working in Kootenai County
, one of the most picturesque places in northern Idaho! Nestled among scenic mountains and over 20 pristine lakes, our county is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. Located in Coeur d'Alene
, you’ll enjoy a low crime rate, access to stunning natural beauty, and a peaceful, friendly community—making it the ideal place to work and live.

Questions? Reach out to our Human Resources team at  or email kcrecruit
.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vets Preference/Drug-Free Workplace