Solid Waste Driver Loader

This is skilled, responsible work operating front-, side- and rear-loading refuse collection vehicles and performing collection activities alone.  Bargaining unit position.

An employee in this class is responsible for performing a variety of tasks of average difficulty involving the safe operation of front-, side-, and rear- loading refuse collection vehicles. Work involves driving the assigned vehicle on an established commercial or residential collection route alone and operating the various devices in the performance of loading activities. Because of this degree of independence, employees receive general supervision. Front-loaders are used in commercial collection operations while manually filled side-and rear- loaders are used in both commercial and residential collection operations. The type of vehicle operated and route assigned are at the discretion of the employee’s supervisor and are subject to change; therefore, skill in the operation of all three types of vehicles might be required. Employees are expected to be able physically and mentally to perform collection activities during all types of weather at a rate and in a manner that will not upset work schedules or cause damage or injury to persons or property. Because of the dimensions and weight of the vehicle, it is somewhat more difficult to operate than a common truck; therefore, employees are expected to be extremely alert and careful throughout the workday. As employees work alone, the exercise of reasonable initiative and independent judgement is required in interpreting collection rules and regulations. Tasks require the employees to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public. Work is reviewed through observation, reports submitted, complaints received, and results obtained.

Works alone and drives a refuse collection vehicle on an established route; operates various mechanisms for loading, packing, and unloading refuse; performs physical tasks in loading refuse into the hopper on manually filled vehicles; performs curbside and special backdoor service for handicapped or disability cases when assigned to residential routes; assures that all tasks are completed properly, safely and satisfactorily; drives assigned route, then to landfill, and to vehicle storage facility.

Operates vehicle radio utilizing standard operating procedures; completes daily collection route information reports; notifies immediate supervisor of violations of refuse collection regulations.

Completes daily vehicle inspection and reports maintenance requirements for immediate attention at the beginning and the end of each shift; assures vehicle is properly equipped, serviced and cleaned; performs routine and minor maintenance such as checking tire air pressure, motor oil, fuel, and hydraulic oil, and bleeding brake air tanks; receives inservice training on vehicle safety, operating procedures, and maintenance.

Performs related work as required.

Working knowledge of: operation and maintenance characteristics of front-loading commercial refuse vehicles and/or side-/rear- loading refuse vehicles; occupational hazards and appropriate safety precautions.

Ability to: read and write; understand and follow oral and written instructions; interpret route maps and make recommendations for improving routes; perform manual tasks involving heavy and continuous lifting; operate equipment with somewhat complicated mechanisms requiring physical coordination; perform work requiring physical strength and endurance during all types of weather; complete and submit oral and written reports in a clear, concise, and accurate manner; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

Skill and ability to: demonstrate proficiency in the operation of all three types of equipment.

 

 

Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent and six (6) months of experience in the operation of at least one of the following three types of equipment: front-loading commercial refuse container truck, side- or rear- loading manually filled refuse collection vehicle with packer and dump, and six (6) months of experience in performing heavy physical work; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Individuals who do not possess the skill and ability to operate all three types of vehicles might be required to complete a supplemental operator-training course on the type of vehicle they cannot operate.

Possession of a valid Florida Commercial driver’s license, Class “B” plus Air Brakes. 

Evaluation of education and experience. Drug testing is included in all pre-employment processing.

Employees may be required to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays and overtime as needed. During periods when the Mayor issues an emergency declaration for the City of Tampa, all employees may be required to work in preparation, response or recovery activities related to the stated emergency.

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