Job Description

Posting number: 2026-00595

Department: Solid Waste Core Services

Job classification: Heavy Equipment Operator, Senior

Posting type: Open

Categories: Sanitation, Warehouse

Summary

This position is being re-advertised. Candidates who have previously submitted an application and were referred to the hiring manager are still being considered and do not need to reapply.

Would you like an opportunity to join one of the many teams dedicated to maintaining high-quality public services within a city that has been ranked one of the best places to live year over year? If so, the City of Raleigh Solid Waste Services Department is seeking a highly resourceful, adaptable, multi-tasker with solid critical thinking and communications skills for our Senior Heavy Equipment Operator position.

The Senior Heavy Equipment Operator position supports the Core Services and Special Services divisions within the Solid Waste Services Department. Depending on the assignment, this position drives a fully automated truck and operates a mechanical arm which picks up the residential garbage and/recycling containers. The Senior Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for dumping the contents of the truck at the appropriate dump site. This position may be required to drive other types of trucks and/or equipment as needed. This position requires a CDL license.

About Us:

Solid Waste Services is responsible for the collection and processing of residential garbage, recycling, and yard waste materials along with several specialized collection services. Our department is committed to providing high-quality waste management, disposal, and recycling services for all our valued customers. As an essential and critical service, we take great pride in our role in the preservation and protection of the community’s natural resources and sustainable growth.

Examples of duties

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Drives assigned vehicle on designated route within municipality to pick up and load recycling, garbage, and/or yard waste materials into truck
• Supports assigned solid waste service routes and crews by performing skilled equipment operations and assisting coworkers as directed by the Foreman or Supervisor
• Assisting with training of new hires
• Reviews routes with Equipment Operator Foremen during a shift to balance the workload and mitigate vehicle breakdowns or accident
• Responds to missed collections as needed
• Uses appropriate in-vehicle technology to safely complete daily work assignments
• Provides courteous customer service along assigned routes by responding to routine questions and promptly reporting customer complaints or concerns to the Foreman or Supervisor for appropriate follow-up
• Responds to vehicle accidents, spills, and personal injuries and assists with the reporting and investigative process
• Transports load to the appropriate disposal facility to unload
• Inspects their assigned vehicle at the start and finish of the route (pre- and post-trip inspection), completes the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report for any damage or malfunction, and submits the report to their supervisor

Qualifications

Education and Experience

High School diploma or G.E.D. equivalency; 3 to 5 years' experience in medium to heavy construction equipment operation or related work

OR

Any equivalent combination of training and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be substituted

Licensing and Certifications

• Valid North Carolina Class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record, or the ability to obtain within 60 days of hire

OR

• Valid North Carolina Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a satisfactory driving record or the ability to obtain within 90 days of hire

Supplemental information

Knowledge Of:

• Heavy equipment operation and maintenance
• Occupational hazards and applicable safety principles and practices
• Uses and properties of supplies and equipment
• Applicable federal, state and local laws, codes, regulations
• Computer documentation software/modern office technology

Skill In:

• Customer service
• Attention to detail to perform tasks accurately
• Supports daily operational readiness by reviewing assigned routes, equipment needs, and work instructions established by Foremen, Supervisors, and Management

Ability To:

• Complete required operational documentation and prepare accurate, concise reports of work performed
• Work effectively as part of a team and coordinate tasks with coworkers
• Recognize potential hazards, and maintain high standards of quality and safety
• Maintain high standards of work quality
• Collaborate with management

ADA and Other Requirements:

Work Environment and Physical Effort:

Very Heavy: Exerting more than 100 pounds of force occasionally, more than 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or more than 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Work Environment:

Work is typically performed in an outdoor environment, construction site, or in a vehicle. Employees may occasionally work in confined spaces, warehouse environment, or shop environment.

Work Exposures:

There is frequent exposure to extreme cold (below 32 degrees), extreme heat (above 100 degrees), moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles, and loud noises. Employees may occasionally be exposed to individuals who are hostile or irate, communicable diseases, and toxic or caustic chemicals or substances.

City of Raleigh is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are provided upon request.