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City of Tacoma

Solid Waste Collector/Driver

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Hourly
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Compensation

Type:
Hourly
Rate:
Range $37.36 - $41.18
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Life insurance
Employee assistance program
Professional Development

Job Description

The City of Tacoma is a vibrant and growing municipality located in the Pacific Northwest, known for its commitment to providing exceptional public services to its residents and businesses. As a city, Tacoma boasts a unique blend of urban and suburban environments and offers access to beautiful natural surroundings, educational institutions, cultural landmarks, and a diverse population. The city’s Environmental Services Department plays a critical role in safeguarding the health and well-being of neighborhoods and the Puget Sound ecosystem through innovative and sustainable waste management practices. This commitment to environmental stewardship, public safety, and community engagement makes Tacoma an outstanding... Show More

Job Requirements

  • Graduation from high school or equivalent
  • At least six months of relevant work experience performing heavy manual labor
  • At least one year experience operating heavy-duty Class 8 trucks OR three years of solid waste collections experience assisting drivers and operating hydraulic equipment
  • Valid Washington State Commercial Class B Driver's License
  • Verifiable safe driving record
  • Ability to perform heavy lifting, bending, and climbing
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Ability to safely operate heavy collection vehicles and equipment
  • Ability to pass background check, pre-employment medical exam, physical assessment test, and drug and alcohol screen
  • Ability to work safely around traffic and equipment hazards

Job Qualifications

  • Graduation from high school or equivalent
  • At least six months of relevant work experience performing heavy manual labor
  • At least one year experience operating heavy-duty Class 8 trucks OR three years of solid waste collections experience assisting drivers and operating hydraulic equipment
  • Valid Washington State Commercial Class B Driver's License
  • Verifiable safe driving record
  • Knowledge of operation and safe use of heavy automotive vehicles and equipment
  • Knowledge of safe techniques of lifting heavy objects
  • Knowledge of solid waste collection methods and equipment
  • Knowledge of City of Tacoma street network
  • Familiarity with commercial driving laws, utility services, rates, local codes and policies
  • Ability to operate solid waste automotive equipment and related loaders, compactors, and dumping equipment
  • Ability to empty solid waste containers into trucks
  • Ability to learn and follow laws, regulations, and procedures related to waste collection
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
  • Ability to read and follow maps and routes
  • Ability to write accurate maintenance and incident reports
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships
  • Customer service oriented with strong communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to observe legal and defensive driving practices
  • Ability to operate onboard computers, radios, and other equipment

Job Duties

  • Drive and operate solid waste collection vehicles including automated side-load trucks, front-load trucks, rear-load trucks, roll-off trucks, grapple trucks, and other equipment as assigned
  • Efficiently route collection stops and safely navigate congested city streets and tight alley ways
  • Perform routine driver vehicle inspections and report deficiencies or hazards
  • Collect solid waste and recycle materials from containers, boxes, bags, and bundled branches
  • Operate hydraulic controls to lift, load, compact and offload materials
  • Wash interior and exterior of assigned equipment and fuel collection vehicles as necessary
  • Maintain strong customer relationships and provide customer education on recycling and diversion options
  • Report nuisance violations, graffiti, blight, overgrown vegetation, abandoned vehicles, potholes, and other issues to supervisors
  • Reduce effects of vehicle incidents and fluid spills to address safety, health, and environmental impacts
  • Prepare and maintain basic records such as route books and timecards
  • Follow all policies, procedures, codes, and laws related to solid waste collection
  • Perform related duties as assigned

Job Qualifications

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)

Job Location

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