Household Waste Specialist

Household Waste Specialist

Lee County is seeking dependable, safety-focused individuals to join our Solid Waste team as Household Waste Specialists. In this role, you will help protect our environment by safely collecting, sorting, and preparing household chemical and electronic waste for proper disposal or recycling.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, takes pride in safety and organization, and wants a stable career in public service that directly supports the health and well-being of our community.

What You Will Do

• Collect, sort, and prepare household chemical and electronic waste for safe disposal or recycling
• Safely handle a wide range of materials, including paints, solvents, pesticides, pool chemicals, batteries, electronics, fluorescent bulbs, and more
• Classify and segregate materials based on hazard class, including flammable, corrosive, toxic, and reactive materials
• Package, label, and prepare materials for shipment in accordance with regulatory requirements
• Transport materials to vendors and special collection events using a box truck
• Assist with maintaining accurate records, reports, and shipping manifests in compliance with FDEP and DOT regulations
• Support recycling operations and secure document destruction processes
• Perform other related duties as assigned

What We're Looking For

• High School Diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of education and related work experience
• Six (6) months of experience in waste management, hazardous materials handling, recycling, sanitation, warehouse operations, public works, or similar environments
• Ability to work in a safety-sensitive role and comply with DOT Drug & Alcohol testing requirements

Licensing Requirements

• Required for employment:
  Valid Florida Class B Commercial Learner's Permit
• Must obtain a Florida Class B Commercial Driver's License within six (6) months of hire

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience driving box trucks or other large vehicles
• Forklift experience or certification

Safety-Sensitive Position

• This is a safety-sensitive position and is subject to Drug and Alcohol Workplace Testing in accordance with DOT regulations (49 CFR Parts 40 and/or 382).

Training & Certifications

• (All provided and paid for by the employer)
• OSHA 24-Hour HAZWOPER (initial 3-day course)
• OSHA 8-Hour HAZWOPER Refresher (annual)
• DOT Hazardous Materials Shipping/Manifesting Training (every 3 years)
• Forklift Certification (every 3 years)

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM. First Saturday of each month (unless on or near a holiday). Occasional additional hours for off-site collection events or operational needs

Why Join Us?

This is a hands-on role where your work makes a direct impact on environmental safety and public health in Lee County. You'll enjoy competitive pay, excellent benefits, and a strong retirement plan through the State of Florida. Most importantly, you'll join a dedicated team committed to keeping our community safe, clean, and sustainable.

About the Department

The Lee County Solid Waste Department provides responsible waste collection, recycling, and disposal services to residents and businesses throughout the county. The department is dedicated to environmental protection, regulatory compliance, and exceptional service to the public.

About Lee County

Lee County is located in beautiful Southwest Florida and is home to over 800,000 residents. We are dedicated to serving our community with high-quality services and a focus on sustainability and innovation. Join us in making Lee County a great place to live, work, and visit.