Refuse Worker

Job Title: Refuse Worker
Department: Public Works
Reports To: Crew Supervisor
Classification: Grade 8
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Minimum Rate of Pay: $35,376.00 Annually

Nature of Work:
The Refuse Collector collects garbage as part of a refuse collection crew. This is routine but heavy manual work and may be performed under adverse weather conditions. Employees regularly perform their tasks at a rapid pace. Employees work under the general supervision of the Crew Supervisor and may provide leadership to other employees and/or crew members as assigned.

Examples of Work:

• Picks up refuse and trash cans from houses or business establishments and dumps contents into truck;
• Operates the truck’s trash compactor and dumpster switch;
• Cleans the refuse truck, equipment and maintains cleanliness of work area;
• Collects leaves during leaf collection season;
• Assists with bulk trash pick-up;
• Assists by directing during backing procedures and other maneuvering techniques and situations;
• Responds to emergency or special events activity as needed;
• Responds to citizen inquiries regarding refuse and recycling services;
• Performs related work as required.

Minimum Qualifications of Work:

• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• At least one year of experience collecting refuse or recycling or any equivalent combination of experience and training which proved the required knowledge, skill, and abilities
• Must be able to lift objects or materials weighing up to 75 pounds
• Must be able to operate mechanical controls on the back of the truck safely and efficiently, and report mechanical problems
• Knowledge of the occupational hazards involved and the safety precautions necessary in use of tools and equipment operation including traffic, confined space, and personal protective equipment
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
• Ability to observe proper safety precautions
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with other employees, supervisors and the public

Tools and Equipment Used:
Motorized vehicles and refuse equipment

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee will:

• Regularly use their hands to handle, manipulate, control, or feel objects, tools, and controls, as well as reach with their hands and arms.
• Frequently stand, talk, and hear.
• Often walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.
• Require specific vision abilities, including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The following work environment characteristics represent those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Regularly works outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Works along streets and must remain aware of traffic hazards.
• Frequently works near moving mechanical parts and is exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, as well as vibrations.
• Occasionally exposed to fumes, airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and the risk of electrical shock.
• May be required to work at night during emergencies and in adverse weather conditions, including snow, ice, sleet, heavy rain, or strong winds.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
A valid Virginia Commercial Driver’s license with tanker endorsement is preferred but not required. A driver’s license is preferred but not required for this position.

Note: Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.