Solid Waste Technician

About the Role

The Solid Waste Technician for Dryden Transfer Station and Countywide litter crew lead shall independently and as directed by the Solid Waste Manager, work as an attendant at Dryden Transfer Station and conducts litter and illegal dump clean ups, homeless encampment cleanups and other activities engaged in the collection, sorting, loading and disposal of refuse and recyclable materials throughout the county as directed. Assisting as a transfer station attendant two or more days per week as assigned.

What You'll Do

• Perform collection, sorting, directing, instructing and assessing costs with the public; advise customers of disposal options, conduct numerous transactions daily, perform basic mathematical calculations and prepares end-of-the day reports.
• Operate a computer system to complete daily transactions; learn and utilize the computer scale program to accurately process loads and disposal transactions.
• Provide clear, accurate and friendly information to the public regarding garbage disposal and recycling services both in person and by telephone; maintain professional and positive public relations.
• Maintain records and reports on transactions, deposits and waste quantities; maintain a high level of attention to detail.
• Perform manual labor including the collection and removal of trash, illegal dumping debris, and homeless encampment waste along county roads and county properties.
• Operate a light-duty vehicle with a tandem axle trailer two to three times per week; collect, load and dispose of refuse along roadways and illegal dump sites; safely operate a winch and dump trailer.
• Operate heavy equipment, including front-end loaders, yard trucks and semi-trailers, in accordance with safety regulations and procedures; conduct equipment inspections and ensure vehicles and machinery are maintained.
• Direct traffic flow at the transfer station to ensure safety of the public and employees; monitor equipment for scheduled maintenance and report required repairs promptly.
• Respond to public inquiries and resolve issues within the scope of authority; demonstrate strong customer service.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and professional environment at all sites and facilities for both the public and employees.

What We're Looking For

• Education/Experience: High school diploma or GED; two years’ experience in bookkeeping, cash handling, public interaction, and good driving skills.
• Licenses/Certifications: Valid Washington State driver license; First Aid/CPR/AED and traffic control/flagging preferred.
• Language/Communication: Ability to read and interpret safety rules and procedures; communicate effectively with the public; ability to direct staff and contractors.
• Mathematical: Ability to calculate percentages, fees, revenues; basic algebra/geometry; familiarity with computers.
• Reasoning/Problem Solving: Ability to solve practical problems; interpret written or oral instructions; diffuse critical situations with judgment and compassion.

Nice to Have

• First Aid/CPR/AED and traffic control/flagging certifications (preferred).

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: PW08 Steps 2-4 $4,568.45-$4,991.39; Longevity Steps 5-8 $5,218.84-$5,971.75 per month.
• Benefits include a state retirement system, deferred compensation program, health insurance package with Medical and Dental, and county contributions to a personal health savings account.
• Eligible for up to 11 paid holidays plus floating holidays per collective bargaining agreement; accruals for vacation and sick leave.