Landfill Equipment Operator
Application closing date: 11/13/2026
Hiring pay range: $24.64 - $29.57
Full pay range: $24.64 - $34.50
FLSA: Non-Exempt
NOTE: Schedule changes are dependent on season operations:
Winter Schedule: October - March: Tues - Sat - 8am - 4:30pm (off days: Sun & Mon)
Summer Schedule: April - September: Wed - Sun - 8am - 4:30pm (off days: Mon & Tues)
SUPERVISION:
Non-Supervisory.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
Landfill Equipment Operator: Works under minimal supervision and is an entry - journey level position, with some previous experience required.
GENERAL PURPOSE OF JOB:
Performs skilled equipment operations using a variety of specialized light and heavy equipment for the purpose of transferring, spreading, covering, loading, and compacting waste and/or soil in an efficient and safe manner. Collects samples, monitors gas levels, monitoring PCS and conducts environmental inspections. The Landfill Operator levels are distinguished from one another by the independence of work, level of skills, education, and training required in each position. The position levels represent an internal career ladder and professional growth opportunity and may be filled at either the level I or lead based upon the expertise of the applicant and department needs.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
(These duties are illustrative of typical essential responsibilities of the job, and may vary according to assignment)
Landfill Equipment Operator:
Responsible for operating various landfill equipment, heavy and/or light, proficiently and without supervisor, including but not limited to compactor, weigh scale, backhoe, loader, large and small bulldozers, graders, and lowboys to transport heavy equipment.
Operates power tools and hand tools.
Performs routine maintenance on equipment, including checking all fluid levels, and adding if necessary, checking and replacing air filters and greasing equipment when necessary.
Plows snow & ice and maintains landfill facilities and grounds to ensure access regardless of weather conditions.
According to level and ability, responsible for fabricating, welding, and modifying parts and equipment. May perform welding duties as a certified welder, operating welding equipment, cutting torch, grinder, drill press and related hand tools to fabricate equipment parts or repair parts as needed.
Performs routine maintenance services on landfill equipment, including changing oil, lubricating vehicle, changing fuel, air, and oil filters, checking transmission, engine, hydraulic and differential fuel levels.
Performs pre and post inspection of equipment to ensure equipment is operationally ready.
Observes safety precautions and wears appropriate safety equipment.
May assist in performing repairs to landfill equipment, as required.
Screen loads to identify hazardous waste, other unacceptable waste, and valuable recyclables.
Ensures that all work areas are clean, organized and all equipment is properly stored; including performing fueling duties associated with various types of equipment used in Landfill operations, and performing ground maintenance by picking up any debris generated from facility operations.
Works to grow professionally by taking courses designated by Landfill Manager.
Other duties as assigned.
CORE COMPETENCIES:
(Representing the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities required in the position)
Public Service: A commitment to the mission of providing exceptional services to the citizens of Garfield County. It is who we are, and what we do.
Customer Service: A commitment to providing exceptional service to all customers (internal & external), which includes being helpful, professional, courteous, and taking the time to understand customer's needs.
Stewardship & Innovation: Is a good steward of public resources and looks for ways to be innovative and improve efficiencies.
Teamwork: Able to work together with a diverse group of people towards a shared goal, while considering the needs of others.
Business Technology: Ability to utilize the technology required of the position and demonstrates a willingness to learn new technologies as required to assist the County in providing exceptional services, innovation, and work efficiencies.
Communication: Proficient in communication, and able to communicate using the English language, including written, verbal, or other communication channels as required by the position.
BENEFITS:
Medical, Vision, Dental
Disability & Life Insurance
Retirement Plan
Paid Vacation & Sick Time
Employee Wellness Programs
Employee Gyms
To view the complete benefits information, please visit https://www.garfieldcountyco.gov/human-resources/benefits-brochure/