Equipment Operator In Training

Brief Description

The City is offering a Sign-On Bonus for Public Works Operations positions: $500 with first paycheck and 2% of gross earnings during the first year of employment at first anniversary.

This is an entry‑level trainee position intended for individuals with no or less than six (6) months of professional experience operating a specialized commercial vehicle. Individuals already in possession of a valid South Carolina Class B or A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or equivalent CDL from their state of residence (see Driver's License Requirements section below) will complete up to four (4) weeks of training, including both classroom and hands‑on training intended to provide the essential skills and knowledge required to operate a variety of specialized commercial vehicles, including right‑side drive safely and independently upon program completion.

Individuals who do not already possess a CDL will undergo additional training for up to 12 weeks and will be required to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) within three (3) weeks of hire and the CDL license within eight (8) weeks of hire.

The purpose of this position is to develop and prepare trainees for promotion to Solid Waste Equipment Operator I. To successfully complete the program, trainees must demonstrate proficiency and understanding in the following areas: federal, state, City, and department rules and regulations; inspections, reports, and documentation; equipment safety; customer service; routes and directions; and driving. Failure to demonstrate proficiency and understating in all areas at designated evaluation points will result in removal from the training program.

• Obtain CDL License:
  Complete CDL training program, to include classroom study and hands‑on driving instruction. Must test and successfully pass CLP exam within three (3) weeks of hire. Must test and successfully obtain CDL within eight (8) weeks of hire.
• Complete Commercial Vehicle Training Program:
  • Rules and Regulations:
    Receive department orientation and review of all department and City policies and procedures. Study and acquire knowledge of all federal and state traffic laws and regulations pertaining to operating a commercial vehicle.
  • Vehicle Care, Inspections, Reports, and Documentation:
    Learn the requirements of conducting pre‑ and post‑trip inspections to include making sure all equipment is in proper working order. Receive hands‑on instruction in checking tire pressure, fluid levels, safety equipment, gauges, steering controls, accelerator and brake pedals, horn, wipers, lights, mirrors, etc. Learn how to properly clean and maintain vehicles and their components to include greasing and lubricating movable parts, as well as proper fueling procedures.
    
    Learn the guidelines for completing and submitting accident, injury, and incident reports.
  • Equipment Operation and Safety:
    Train in proper operation of specialized vehicle equipment (e.g., joysticks, levers, mounted brooms, robotic/mechanical arms, claw/grabber, boom/suction hose, boom/crane telescopic extension, jet and vacuum units, etc.) as well as how to safely secure specialized equipment when not in use. Train in emergency response procedures, including the use of safety equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers, reflective triangles, safety chains, safety equipment harnesses, and towing equipment).
    
    Learn emergency management techniques for extraordinary circumstances one may encounter while performing job functions including collisions, mechanical failures, and natural disasters. Actively participate in the reporting of safety issues and concerns that are observed during essential job functions.
  • Customer Service:
    Receive training in tactful and courteous interactions with the public. Review basic City public services and operations in order to respond to general questions.
  • Route Familiarization:
    Develop and maintain working knowledge of City streets and current service routes. Receive hands‑on training in effectively utilizing route optimization guides, global positioning systems, hard‑copied directional aids, maps, on‑board diagnostics, etc. to follow routes…