Solid Waste Equipment Operator — Field Career

++EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I – SOLID WASTE++
Category:
Full-Time
Status:
Open
Hourly:
Min. $20.759 – Mid. $25.949 effective 10/1/2026
Published:
September 25, 2026
Closing:
Until Filled
++DEFINITION++
To drive trucks and light equipment; collection and transportation of solid waste, heavy trash and recyclable.

++DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS++
This is in the entry level class in the Equipment Operator class series. Employees in this class normally work under close supervision performing a group of repetitive or closely related duties according to established procedures. Positions assigned to this class can be distinguished from higher level classes by responsibility for operating a limited range of light and moderate equipment and vehicles.

++SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED++
Receives general supervision from higher level solid waste maintenance personnel.

++ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS++
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Drive, and may operate, light to moderate solid waste equipment on routine assignments or on a training basis, trash truck and rear loading garbage trucks.
• Participate in working with a small solid waste crew in completing work orders.
• Perform tasks as related to recycling and composting.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

++PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS++
For indefinite periods of time – mobility within a field environment; exposure to mechanical, dust/mites, fume, and odor hazards; exposure to extreme cold, heat, and constant noise; walking; twisting body; stooping; standing; squatting; sorting; sitting; seeing; pushing, dragging and pulling up to 50 pounds; lifting and carrying up to 40 pounds; kneeling; climbing; reading; decision making; reaching above shoulder level; using both hands for simple and firm grasping;

clarity of hearing; communicating clearly and effectively, in person and by two-way radio; fine finger manipulation; safe operation of shovel, pitch fork, rack, and chain saw; operating a trash truck through city traffic.

++QUALIFICATIONS++
Knowledge of:

• Solid waste and trash collection tools and equipment.
• Methods employed in basic laboring and maintenance work.
• Safety precautions used in refuse collection work.

Ability to:

• Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Perform heavy physical labor.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

++TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE++
Some experience in the operation of light construction equipment and vehicles. A High School Diploma or GED is desirable.

++LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES++
Possession of a valid Texas Driver’s License as well as a valid Texas Class B Commercial Driver’s License.

* Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.

* Duties, responsibilities and actions may change at any time with or without notice.

++The City of La Porte is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Qualified Individuals.++