Route Specialist ; A262550-17 Sanitation

REVISED - 10/1/2026

Operates truck for collections on assigned route and back to the landfill to empty. Completes assigned routes in a timely basis. Handles customers concerns in a polite and courteous manner. Assists in supervising assigned refuse collectors.

• Responsible for learning and memorizing five routes consisting of 1,500 residents.
• Operates a rear loading packer truck for refuse collection and is responsible for the safety of the two collectors riding in the back.
• Must be vigilant of surrounding areas such as schools, residents, cars, mailboxes, unleashed dogs, overhead power lines/wires, and hazardous scenarios in order to assure that operations are conducted in a safe manner.
• Operates rear loader truck with hydraulic system.
• Responsible to do pre-trip and post-trip safety inspection of assigned truck on a daily basis and report all truck deficiency to the supervisor, this includes inside and outside basic cleaning and greasing of the truck.
• Must be able to plan routes and instruct Refuse Collectors in route safety work procedures.
• Responsible for detecting and identifying improper performance to avoid risking the safety of two Refuse Collectors. If collectors neglect safety procedures, issues must be addressed to the supervisor immediately.
• Must keep an updated log of daily responses to 311 customer service complaints, reports, and recycle collections.
• Responsible for safely driving the rear loader truck in varied weather conditions to designated routes from landfill compound to the dumping site.
• Attends bi-weekly safety meetings and complies with the local and state policies and ordinances.
• Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor including, but not limited to driving a City vehicle for City business use.

• Knowledge of hazards and safety rules and precautions of operating heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of hydraulics pistons and compact to be able to operate tippers for refuse collections.

• Ability to read and follow route maps.
• Ability to work safely without presenting a direct threat to the incumbent of others.
• Ability to make independent decisions in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain good planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to take and follow directions from supervisor.
• Ability to give directions to and gain compliance from assigned staff.
• Ability to perform strenuous work and routine work.
• Ability to maintain a valid Commercial Texas Driver License and a good driving record.
• Ability to project a positive and professional image of the City of Laredo.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in the English language and orally in the Spanish language.
• Ability to comply with all City of Laredo's policies and procedures.
• Ability to maintain good health and physical condition sufficient to permit the full performance of the duties of this position.

Physical Effort Requirements Position will have the following exposures

• Frequent exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and/or hazards. Majority of work performed outside or with exposure to risk.
• Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly having to move objects.

Work Environment Locations Position will require the employee to work in the following types of work environments

Never

• Office or similar indoor environment

Seldom

• Confined space

Sometimes

• Warehouse environment

Often

• Outdoor environment
• Street environment (near moving traffic)
• Construction site
• Vehicles

Exposures Position will require the employee to be exposed to the following environmental elements

Seldom

• Individuals with known violent backgrounds

Sometimes

• Individuals who are hostile or irate
• Extreme cold (below 32 degrees)

Frequently

• Communicable diseases
• Fumes or airborne particles
• Toxic or caustic chemicals or substances

Often

• Extreme heat (above 100 degrees)
• Moving mechanical parts
• Loud noises (85+ decibels such as heavy trucks, jack hammers, construction)

Travel Position will require the employee to travel

Never:

• Local travel
• Regional travel
• National travel
• International travel

• At least two (2) years of truck driving experience.