Description
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
Updated: January 2026
Reports to: Senior MRF Manager
Terms: Regular full time
Shift: Mon-Fri, 9AM – 6PM
Compensation: $24.50 - 35.00, hourly
Benefits: Health insurance, long-term disability and life insurance premiums paid 100%, dental insurance premium shared, employer contribution to 403(b) retirement plan after 6 months of employment. Access to FSA/HSA health savings accounts, and various ancillary insurance plans. PTO and paid holidays.
Purpose
Eureka Recycling’s Heavy Equipment Operator performs work primarily in the area of equipment operation at the Material Recovery Facility (MRF). This role involves operating a variety of heavy equipment, including front-end loaders, forklifts, and skid steer loaders, to support the processing and movement of recyclable materials throughout the facility. Daily responsibilities include operating equipment safely and efficiently, performing routine inspections and basic maintenance, managing material flow and internal traffic patterns, and maintaining clean and safe work areas. The Heavy Equipment Operator works in a collaborative and constructive manner that reflects the values of the organization.
Responsibilities
· Operate a variety of equipment, including front-end loaders, forklifts, skid steer loaders, and other machinery, to process recyclable materials at Eureka’s Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in accordance with operational standards and safety requirements.
· Perform daily inspections of equipment and complete minor maintenance as trained, including monitoring fluid levels, checking for leaks, lights, counterbalance, belts, brake function, tire pressure, and other systems necessary for safe and efficient operation.
· Safely manage equipment movement and assist with truck traffic flow within the MRF to support efficient operations while prioritizing the safety of personnel and equipment.
· Inspect work areas for hazards such as holes, soft spots, obstructions, overhead utilities, and clearance issues, and take appropriate action to maintain a safe operating environment.
· Use a two-way radio to communicate effectively with team members and leadership to receive instructions, share information, and coordinate work activities.
· Adhere to all safety policies, procedures, and operational guidelines, and promptly report safety concerns, near misses, equipment malfunctions, or unsafe conditions.
· Support a positive and respectful work environment by working cooperatively with coworkers and leadership.
· Assist with accident or incident reporting as requested and provide accurate information when needed.
· Maintain cleanliness of assigned work areas and equipment.
· Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
· Experience operating heavy equipment, such as front-end loaders, forklifts, and skid steer loaders
· Knowledge of equipment maintenance procedures including: monitoring fluid levels, checking for leaks, inspecting vehicle lighting, conducting counterbalance checks, assessing belt conditions, evaluating brake system function, monitoring tire pressure, and conducting other necessary maintenance functions.
Skills and Abilities
· Demonstrated ability to follow direction, work collaboratively, and support team operations.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey information clearly and consistently, including via email.
· Exhibits fairness, objectivity, and professionalism when working with others.
· Interacts with others in a sensitive, tactful, and respectful manner.
· Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information.
· Strong problem-solving skills, using logical thinking to identify key facts and contribute to effective solutions.
· Adapts easily to changes in priorities, work assignments, and schedules.
· Consistently demonstrates reliable and punctual attendance.
· Proficient in reading, writing, and communicating in English, with a basic understanding of math.
· Learns effectively from instructions, observation, and experience, applying good judgment and following procedures.
· Works well both independently and as part of a team.
· Ability to speak and understand Spanish is preferred.
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.Physical Requirements
· Work in varying seasonal and adverse weather conditions, both indoors and outdoors, while being exposed to equipment noise and strong odors
· Utilize and properly wear the necessary personal protective equipment as required for the job. Perform heavy physical labor, lifting and carrying heavy objects of up to 50 pounds in weight on an occasional basis
· Engage in prolonged periods of sitting during equipment operation, as well as standing and walking for extended durations while carrying out various work activities.
· Perform physical tasks such as climbing in and out of equipment, bending at the waist, reaching overhead, above the shoulders, and horizontally, as well as engaging in carrying, pushing, and pulling. Additionally, operate a range of buttons, levers, and pedals on equipment using both hands and feet.
· Required to undergo a pre-employment physical and drug screening, and must adhere to Eureka's drug-free workplace program.
Working Conditions
· Works indoors and outdoors; subject to seasonal and adverse weather conditions.
· Subject to noise from equipment operation.
· May climb in and out of equipment; bending at the waist; reaching overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally; carrying; pushing and pulling.
· Must have dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a variety of buttons and levers and use of feet to control pedals on equipment.
· Work will require occasional weekend and/or evening work.
· Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Affirmative Action Policy Statement:
Eureka ensures equal opportunities for all employees and job applicants, prohibiting discrimination or harassment based on various factors, including race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, marital status, public assistance status, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Responsibilities
The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery. This includes ensuring the equipment is functioning properly and adhering to safety protocols.
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