Heavy Equipment Operator-Norfolk Job at SOUTHEASTERN PSA (VA) in Norfolk

Overview

The Heavy Equipment Operator safely and efficiently performs heavy equipment operation to move, load, and compact solid waste at SPSA’s Transfer Stations or Tire Processing Facility. Observes instruments and surroundings while vehicle is in motion. Knows and follows all spotter rules. Performs daily preventive maintenance and safety checks in a timely and efficient manner. Effectively monitors waste stream for hazardous and dangerous materials.

Work is performed under regular supervision and is carried out in accordance with standardized equipment operation practice and general work instruction. Direction is given through verbal and written communications.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently performs heavy equipment operation to move, load, and compact solid waste. 65%
• Performs daily preventive maintenance and safety checks in a timely and effective manner. 15%
• Effectively monitors waste stream for hazardous and dangerous materials. 10%
• Performs routine clerical duties such as completing station logs. 10%
• At Transfer Stations, utilize heavy equipment to push and pack household waste deposited on the floor into transfer vehicles.
• At Tire Processing Facility, utilizes heavy equipment to move and stack discarded tires onto tire shredder equipment to produce cover material for Landfill and other purposes.
• Knows and follows all spotter rules. Safely directs traffic and keeps wait time to a minimum. Maintains safe distances between vehicles and equipment.
• Maintains basic fluid levels on assigned equipment and performs daily maintenance checks in a timely and effective manner.
• Inspects equipment for proper operating condition and reports defects or damage to the appropriate authority.
• Monitors performance of assigned equipment and provides accurate and timely reports of deficiencies or other needs to supervisor.
• Observes instruments and surroundings while vehicle is in motion.
• Responsible for the proper use, operation, and cleanliness of the equipment. Conscientiously operates equipment in a manner which promotes longevity and maximum value.
• Ability to spot and make determination of possible hazardous or other non-acceptable waste and advise supervisor of potential hazard immediately.
• Performs routine clerical duties such as completing station logs, field and time reports and requisitions.
• Participates in cleanup activities as directed.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

Experience & Education

• Required Education - High school diploma or the equivalent required.
• Required Experience - Three years of experience in the operation of heavy construction equipment with at least one year as the primary operator of assigned equipment. Experience requirements may be reduced if the candidate has successfully completed an approved SPSA on-the-job training course.
• Required Licenses - Valid driver’s license and safe driving record required to operate SPSA owned or leased vehicles.
• An equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered.

Knowledge & Skills

• Thorough knowledge of heavy equipment, components, and operating techniques.
• Thorough knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of heavy equipment use in a solid waste transfer facility environment.
• Knowledge of traffic and safety rules and accident prevention.
• Skill in the safe and efficient operation of assigned equipment under adverse conditions.
• Basic mechanical knowledge and skills.
• Basic computer skills to complete daily logs, reports, and requisitions.
• Good time management skills to ensure assigned responsibilities are completed in an efficient and safe manner while working through challenges as they may arise.

Working Conditions

This position will work outdoors at SPSA Transfer Stations or the Landfill facility in all weather conditions, including adverse climatic conditions (i.e., dust, odor, hot, cold, rain, snow). Subjected to work in cold weather, hot sun, extreme heat and around continuous noise, dust, and odor from trash. Requires wearing appropriate personal safety gear. Must be available for shift work at some locations.

Machines, Tools & Equipment

This position will be required to regularly operate heavy and complex equipment, such as excavators or wheel loaders and yard tractors, in a safe and effective manner.

Physical & Mental Requirements

• Operate heavy industrial equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
• Follow standardized operation practices and guidelines.
• Spot and make determination of possible hazardous or other non-acceptable waste.
• Demonstrate good verbal and written communication skills, interpersonal skills, and ability to relay information.
• Read, write, and comprehend general instructions, safety procedures, and reports.
• Accurately complete daily logs, reports, and requisitions.
• Understand oral and written instructions to perform lock-out on equipment being worked on as per SPSA Safety Policy and Programs.
• Work in a dynamic environment requiring teamwork and responsiveness to changing priorities and needs.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Wear appropriate safety gear, including protective clothing, hearing protection, safety goggles, hard hat, and safety steel shank boots.
• Drive an automobile, pick-up truck, and various heavy equipment safely.
• Work in a confined area for extensive periods.
• Climb, crouch, stoop, handle repetitive motion, walk, be focused, aware, and communicate.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment to meet deadlines, as needed.