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  • SOLID WASTE OPERATOR

    Riverside, California United States CITY OF RIVERSIDE, CA Full Time $44,424.00 - $62,520.00 Annually Jul 11, 2025
    City of Riverside Employer:

    CITY OF RIVERSIDE, CA

    Are you looking for a new career without the commute? Come see what all the excitement is about in Riverside. Bring your skills and experience and become a part of this dynamic community.Riverside is situated just southwest of the 91 and 60 Freeways at the juncture of Interstate 215 with established transportation corridors accessible by freeway, air, train or bus. Riverside, as one of the top five metro areas in the United States for growth in office, retail, manufacturing and apartments construction has rapidly become a focal point of growth in the region.  

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    Job Description

    The Position

    Please click HERE to view " A Day in the Life" of a City of Riverside Solid Waste Operator.

    The City of Riverside is accepting applications for the position of SOLID WASTE OPERATOR to fill one (1) vacancy in the Solid Waste - Collection Division of the Public Works Department. The eligibility list established may be used to fill the current and/or upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months.

    The Solid Waste Division consists of refuse collection, street sweeping, and Urban/Forestry Landscape operations. Approximately 68 employees are assigned to the Solid Waste Division located at the City of Riverside Corporation Yard. Refuse collection provides weekly residential pick up of trash, recycled, and green waste for approximately 80,000 residential homes, using both City and private hauler drivers. 28 routes are completed daily using 41 CNG refuse trucks in a 4-day/10-hour work week. Additional collection events are held throughout the year including three citywide CURE Events and one Bulky Event. Street Sweeping is conducted twice a month along 60+ routes. Street Sweepers collect debris along the gutters covering approximately 600 miles twice each month. Urban/Forestry Landscape oversees approximately 167,000 trees and manages over 450 acres of landscaping throughout the 81 square miles of the City of Riverside.

    The ideal candidate for the Solid Waste Operator position will be highly dependable, able to work a 5/40 or 4/10 schedule with some mandatory overtime, and will have experience with route-based operations. The selected individual will have experience and the ability to perform physical manual labor, and should have experience performing pre and post trip inspections of solid waste equipment. Successful candidates will also have excellent customer service abilities when dealing with the public, co-workers, and other internal staff.

    The Solid Waste Operator drives and operates equipment and performs manual labor in the daily collection of trash and recyclable and green waste materials for the City. Provides customer services requests and identifies and reports damaged containers.

    Please note : A physical agility test may be incorporated into the selection process in order to determine ability to lift 55 pounds, perform on manual routes, and perform various other heavy manual work.

    Work Performed

    Typical duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
    • Drive and operate various trucks and equipment to pick up and empty trash and recyclable and green waste materials into large collection containers; empty containers into refuse truck; gather other debris and operate mechanism for loading, compressing, and dumping trash and recyclable and green waste materials.
    • Direct driver in some movement of refuse truck in alleys, driveways and other locations; provide navigation and direction for efficient and effective work-flow.
    • Complete pre-trip and post trip Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR); identify and report mechanical or other problems to the Fleet Department and Solid Waste Supervisor.
    • Operate, use, and apply scooter and rear loader truck for daily refuse collection activities.
    • Tag trash and recycling when necessary to inform customers of proper collection procedures; engage courteously with customers and general public.
    • Respond to hazmat clean up and fluid spills; adhere and apply safety standards.
    • Clean, monitor, and provide general maintenance for assigned vehicle daily.
    • Prepare simple reports and documents
    • Operate automated refuse trucks intermittently to pick up misses or during scheduled and unscheduled absences of other Operators; assists in the mitigation of trash from homeless camps and the disposal of large or bulk items.
    • May fulfill service orders for can repairs and replacements; perform stenciling and other work in the care and servicing of cans.
    • Participate in special City events as required.
    • Train entry level or less experienced employees.
    • Perform other duties as assigned.


    Qualifications

    Recruitment Guidelines:

    Education: High School graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED).

    Experience: Six (6) months experience in heavy manual labor.

    Highly Desirable Requirements:
    • Possession of an appropriate, valid class "A" or "B" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License with Air Brake Endorsement and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
    • At least one year of route-based driving experience.
    • Ability to pass a physical agility examination for heavy manual labor.
    • Ability to work outdoors in varying types of weather.

    Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Work is done outside in the field with exposure to inclement weather, hazards, chemicals, equipment, construction materials, solid waste, traffic, and fumes. Employees may interact with staff and/or public and private representatives and will provide professional customer service

    Selection Process

    DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION:
    1) Completed Employment Application
    2) Completed Supplemental Questionnaire

    FOR DIRECTIONS ON ATTACHING A DOCUMENT TO AN ON-LINE APPLICATION, OR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: ( Application Guide).

    IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS:

    If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions. Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment.

    The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification.

    Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver’s License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process.

    It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment.

    Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination.

    NOTE : The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list.

    EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

    Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer. Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S. college or university.

    Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options:
    An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at https://naces.org/members/ or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc. (AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/ .An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university.
    All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement.

    THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.

    Service Employees International Unit (SEIU) - Refuse Unit

    The City offers an attractive benefits package, the central provisions of which are as follows:

    • Retirement for Classic Members - For employees hired after 1/1/2013 who are CLASSIC MEMBERS of California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) or a reciprocal agency as of 12/31/12 and have not been separated from service from such agency for six months or more, the retirement benefit shall be 2.7 % @ age 55; 3-year final compensation. The required employee contribution is 8%. The City does not participate in Social Security; thus, employees do not bear this additional 6.2% expense.
    • Retirement for New Members - For employees hired 1/1/2013 or later and who ARE NOT a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) or a reciprocal agency as of 12/31/12, or those who have been separated from a public agency which contracts with CalPERS or a reciprocal agency for six months or more, the retirement benefit shall be 2% at age 62; 3 year final compensation. The required employee contribution is 50% of the normal cost and is subject to change per CalPERS every fiscal year. The City does not participate in Social Security; thus, employees do not bear this additional 6.2% expense.
    • Health Insurance - The City offers six health insurance plans and contributes up to $1,537 per month for HMO plans (family coverage).
    • Dental Insurance - The City provides three dental insurance plans and contributes up to $45 per month.
    • Vision Insurance - The City provides vision coverage through Vision Service Plan (VSP) for employees and their dependents that are enrolled in medical coverage.
    • Life Insurance - The City provides and pays for term life insurance equal to $100.000. Additional Life Insurance is available and voluntary for employees and eligible dependents (up to $300k).
    • Deferred Compensation - The City contributes $25 a month with a minimum employee contribution of $12.50 per check. Participation in the deferred compensation plan is optional.
    • Leave Benefits - Includes vacation leave, sick leave, bereavement leave, and holiday benefits. Please refer to the SEIU Refuse MOU for specific details.
    • Flexible Spending Account - The City offers a Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Plan for optional participation.
    • State Disability Insurance - Automatic coverage administered by the Employee Development Department (EDD) of the State of California.
    • Vacation Accrual - 0-4 yrs. = 80hrs, 5-9 yrs. = 120hrs, 10+ yrs. = 160 hrs.
    • For other special compensation, refer to the SEIU Refuse MOU .

    For additional benefits information, please visit the following website: https://www.riversideca.gov/human/employee-hub/benefits/about-1

    For part-time, benefitted positions the insurance and other benefits (leave accruals, holidays, etc.) are pro-rated based on ½ or ¾ time status.4

    Closing Date/Time: 7/23/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
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    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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Government Sanitation Jobs: Opportunities & Career Paths

Government Sanitation Jobs: Opportunities & Career Paths

Government sanitation jobs are vital for maintaining public health and ensuring cities and towns stay clean, safe, and functional. These roles contribute to the community’s well-being by managing waste, recycling, and promoting environmental sustainability. Whether you are interested in exploring new employment opportunities or advancing your career, government sanitation provides various job types, career paths, and growth opportunities.

 

What Are Government Sanitation Jobs?

Government sanitation jobs primarily focus on collecting, disposing, and managing waste, recyclables, and other refuse in city or municipal settings. These roles ensure the community remains free from hazardous waste materials and other environmental risks.

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Sanitation workers often use heavy machinery, such as collection vehicles and trucks, to transport trash, recyclables, and debris. They also handle community requests for special disposal services, such as bulk trash pickups or hazardous waste collection.

While these roles demand physical endurance and attention to detail, they provide a rewarding work experience for those who take pride in keeping their communities clean. Government sanitation employees often receive assistance from team members to manage daily tasks effectively. Furthermore, those in these roles support and manage teams to ensure smooth operations across waste collection services.

For individuals interested in searching for stable, impactful careers, government sanitation jobs offer a fulfilling path where they can directly contribute to public health and environmental safety.

 

Career Paths in Government Sanitation

One of the most appealing aspects of government sanitation jobs is the ability to grow within the field. Starting in entry-level positions, employees can work up to supervisory and specialized roles. Typical entry-level roles include laborers, equipment operators, or maintenance workers, which require hands-on experience and formal training.

As employees gain experience, they may move into roles such as:

  • Waste Management Coordinator: This role involves organizing and overseeing waste collection and recycling programs.
  • Environmental Specialist: A position focused on implementing sustainable practices and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Equipment Operator: Operate specialized machinery for waste disposal and recycling, such as collection vehicles and trucks.
  • Supervisory and Management Roles: These positions require leadership skills to manage teams, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain the efficiency of sanitation operations.

With the right experience, employees may even have the opportunity to transition into adjacent fields, such as public health, environmental conservation, or even business ownership related to waste management services. Some workers may pursue specialized licenses or certifications to enhance their expertise in handling specific types of waste or machinery.

 

Working in City Government Sanitation

City government sanitation jobs are typically fast-paced and dynamic, requiring workers to respond to service requests, navigate tight schedules, and maintain high performance. These roles range from refuse collection to recycling coordination, often requiring a keen understanding of the city’s waste management infrastructure.

Employees must have a strong work ethic, physical ability, and familiarity with local ordinances and policies governing sanitation services. Additionally, many sanitation workers rely on modern technology to track and optimize their daily operations.

For example, collection vehicles are often equipped with GPS systems to ensure that routes are followed efficiently and that disposal sites are visited at the appropriate times. This ensures that city regulations manage waste.

Customer service is another critical aspect of city sanitation roles, as employees must interact with residents, answer questions, and address concerns related to waste disposal and recycling. Responding to public concerns about trash collection and ensuring timely and courteous service is essential to the success of any sanitation department.

Working in city government sanitation offers a sense of pride and a feeling of accomplishment, as employees play a direct role in improving the quality of life for their fellow citizens. By contributing to a cleaner and healthier urban environment, sanitation workers help create more livable communities.

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Advancing Your Career in Government Sanitation

Those looking to advance in their government sanitation careers should take a proactive approach to professional development. While experience on the job is necessary, employees should also consider pursuing additional training, certifications, or leadership opportunities.

Some strategies for career advancement include:

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  1. Certifications: Obtaining certifications in specialized areas such as hazardous waste management or environmental conservation can set employees apart from their peers and open doors to higher-paying positions.
  2. Networking: Building relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and professionals in the field can help employees stay informed about job openings and best practices. Networking also provides opportunities to learn from more experienced professionals.
  3. Taking Initiative: Seeking out new challenges, offering to mentor less experienced colleagues, or taking on leadership roles within the department can all demonstrate a commitment to career growth.
  1. Staying Updated on Technology: As waste management systems become increasingly reliant on technology, such as automated disposal systems and collection vehicle tracking, employees who are well-versed in these tools will be better positioned for advancement.

Government sanitation careers often require continuous learning and adaptation as industry standards and regulations evolve. Whether mastering new machinery or keeping up with the latest environmental legislation, employees must remain committed to their professional growth.

 

Job Types and Specializations

Government sanitation jobs cover a variety of specializations, from waste collection and recycling to environmental conservation. Some common job types include:

  • Sanitation Worker: The hands-on labor role responsible for cleaning, collecting, and disposing waste.
  • Waste Management Coordinator: Oversees city-wide waste management programs, ensures compliance with regulations, and improves efficiency in collection routes.
  • Environmental Specialist: Focuses on sustainability initiatives, including promoting recycling and reducing the environmental impact of waste.
  • Equipment Operator: Operates specialized machinery used in waste management processes, such as trucks and compactors.

Many government sanitation jobs require specific skills, such as operating equipment or maintaining licenses for handling hazardous materials. Others may focus on managerial tasks, such as ensuring team performance and responding to public inquiries. Specialized roles, like environmental specialists, are crucial in protecting the environment by promoting recycling programs and reducing the city’s overall waste footprint.

 

Conclusion: A Career with Purpose

Government sanitation jobs offer fulfilling career paths that allow employees to make a tangible impact on their communities. Whether starting as an entry-level laborer or pursuing a management position, numerous opportunities exist to grow and succeed in this field. By staying proactive, continuously learning, and utilizing your skills, you can build a rewarding career in government sanitation, all while contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone.

This career path offers stability and the satisfaction of knowing that your work directly benefits the public and helps to ensure a better future for your city and beyond.

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