Solid Waste Equipment Operator

October 1, 2026

The City of Bakersfield is hiring a Solid Waste Equipment Operator to perform manual and semi-skilled work in operating refuse collection and recycling equipment. Responsibilities include organizing collection routes, driving refuse trucks, and operating various equipment. Applicants must have two years of experience driving heavy-duty vehicles and a valid Class 'B' California driver's license. The position is full-time with a salary range of $26.50 - $32.19 per hour. SALARY: $26.50 - $32.19 / Hour OPENING DATE: 3/19/25 CLOSING DATE: 4/2/2025 at 1:00 PM Pacific Time THE POSITION: Under general supervision, performs manual and semi-skilled work in the operation of heavy and complex automotive refuse collection and recycling equipment such as (but not limited to) front loader, side loader, roll-off, grinder, screen plant, and compost turner; and performs other work as required. REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES: The following typical tasks and responsibilities are representative of this class. They are descriptive, not limiting. Essential Duties: Efficiently organizes and operates collection routes; Operates a one-person, or on occasion a two-person, automated, semi-automated, or manual loading refuse truck used in the collection of various sized waste containers; Drives a refuse collection vehicle to an assigned route; Collects refuse from residences and /or commercial buildings along the route; Drives full refuse truck and boxes to the appropriate facility for disposal or recycling and places truck in the required area; Communicates service situations by radio; May operate and maintain the wood grinder, screen plant, compost turner, and other material handling equipment at the recycling facility; Leads a small crew of up to two (2) other employees; Performs related work as required. For full job description, please click Solid Waste Equipment Operator MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Applications will be accepted ONLY from those applicants who clearly demonstrate on the COMPLETED application & supplemental questionnaire that they meet the below requirements: • Two (2) years’ experience in driving heavy-duty vehicles or equipment. Licenses and Certificates and Special Requirements: • Possession of a valid Class "B" California driver's license. Highly Desirables: • Solid waste equipment & operations experience • Preventative maintenance experience • Tanker endorsement • Experience with; recycling processing equipment, Grinder, Trommel Screen, Windrow turner EXAMINATION: ORAL APPRAISAL INTERVIEW (Weighted 100%): (Tentative) April 9th, 2025 An appraisal will be made of the applicant's experience, education, training, certification, knowledge, skills, abilities, and personal qualifications for the position. A minimum passing score of 70% is required. NOTE: Admission to the Examination may be limited to those applicants who demonstrate the best combination of qualifications. Applicants possessing the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed admittance to the Examination. Employment applications must be properly completed in accordance with instructions on face of application form. All pertinent information needed to determine that the applicant meets the minimum qualifications must be shown on the application, resume, supplemental questionnaire, and typing certificate; otherwise, the application may be rejected. NOTE: POSTMARKS will not be accepted Resumes will NOT be accepted in lieu of COMPLETED application.

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