EQUIPMENT OPERATOR MASTER- SOLID WASTE

JOB DESCRIPTION

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
(SOLID WASTE - COLLECTIONS)

PUBLIC WORKS

Human Resources

NEWPORT NEWS, VA Department

GENERAL STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Under general supervision, this position is responsible for operating a variety of motorized equipment
in the collection and disposal of refuse materials. May serve as a lead worker. Reports to the Crew
Supervisor C - Collections.

There are three (3) levels of Equipment Operator distinguished by the class of equipment primarily
operated, as defined by the Virginia Department of Transportation, and the qualifications of the
employee.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Operates equipment to include the automated refuse and knuckleboom trucks; receives and follows a
specific sequence on assigned daily route streets; judges proper positioning/alignment of truck;
operates controls for swing, lift, bucket rotation and grapple in collection of bulk waste in close
proximity to overhead utilities; compresses refuse, changes gripper mechanism to accommodate
different size containers; operates hydraulic controls on knuckleboom to manipulate the mechanical
arm or bucket from either the right or left side; drives truck to landfill or compost facility and disposal
site and dumps refuse in designated areas as directed by facility personnel.

Checks fluid levels and operating condition of assigned truck twice each day, before beginning
collection and upon completion; completes a morning and evening check sheet; reports any
malfunction or fluid need; takes truck to vehicle shop, if needed, and completes a work order for repair
work needed; ensures safety of City vehicles, City containers, private property and the public.

Answers routine inquiries of the public concerning regulations for collection and disposal of refuse;
informs residents about proper placement of cart and similar information as required; and refers
complaints, violations of refuse ordinances and special service needs to supervisor

Ensures the safety of City equipment, private property, and others by following proper safety
procedures, watching for pedestrians, private property, overhead utility lines and other utilities or
obstructions.

Provides related trainings; performs routine checks and preventive maintenance on equipment;
identifies and reports equipment malfunctions; cleans equipment as needed; prepares work orders and
reports.

Assists with the collection and disposal of household hazardous wastes.

PC# 70217, 70219, 70243
Page 1 of 3 Revised: 11/01/2022

Performs other duties as assigned.

PERFORMANCE STANDARD

Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the community
and the organization through work behaviors demonstrating the City’s Values. Employees are also
expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE 

Equipment Operation - Knowledge of the proper procedures for operating, inspecting and
maintaining assigned equipment. 

Safety - Knowledge of occupational hazards, safety precautions, and safety regulations related to
equipment operation and general construction work. Knowledge of traffic laws and regulations
governing the operation of equipment.

REQUIRED SKILLS


Interpersonal Relationships/Customer Service – Develops and maintains cooperative and
professional relationships with employees, representatives from other departments and
organizations, and the public. 

Judgment/Decision Making –Uses logic and reasoning to understand, analyze, and evaluate
situations and exercise good judgment to make appropriate decisions.

REQUIRED ABILITIES


Communication – Ability to listen and understand directions, information and ideas presented
verbally and in writing. 

Time Management – Ability to plan and organize daily work routine. Establishes priorities for the
completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Equipment Operator – Requires 1 year of work experience in the operation of light and heavy
equipment in a similar or closely related environment or an equivalent combination of education and
experience.
Equipment Operator, Senior – Requires 2 years of work experience in the operation of heavy
equipment in a similar or closely related environment or an equivalent combination of education and
experience.
Equipment Operator, Master – Requires 3-5 years of work experience in the operation of heavy
equipment or an equivalent combination of education and experience, and 1-2 years of lead worker or
supervisory experience is preferred.

Graduation from a recognized motor equipment operator apprenticeship program may substitute for
up to one year of experience.

PC# 70217, 70219, 70243
Page 2 of 3 Revised: 11/01/2022

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires satisfactory results from a pre-employment medical evaluation; pre-employment substance
abuse testing and is subject to random alcohol and controlled substance testing.

Must have an acceptable driving record and obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit
prior to employment and complete the practical portion of the CDL test within 60 days of
employment.

Must successfully complete the required National Incident Management System (NIMS) Incident
Command System Certifications within one year of employment.

Some positions may require an annual HAZMAT physical and successful completion of the Hazardous
Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER), First Aid and CPR certifications within
six-months of employment.

The job is considered Essential Personnel and will be required to work during and following natural
disasters and emergency situations.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

Tasks require the regular and, at times, sustained performance of moderately physically
demanding work. 

Some combination of climbing and balancing to include climbing ladders, stooping, kneeling,
crouching, and crawling. 

May involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of moderately heavy objects and
materials (20-50 pounds).

SENSORY REQUIREMENTS 

Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds, depth, texture, and visual cues
or signals. 

Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.

ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES

Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such
as dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, weather, fumes, temperature and noise extremes,
hazardous materials, machinery, vibrations, traffic hazards, toxic agents, animals/wildlife, water
hazards, disease, or pathogenic substances.

PC# 70217, 70219, 70243
Page 3 of 3 Revised: 11/01/2022