EQUIPMENT OPERATOR III

Equipment Operator III

Salary : $23.17 - $27.49 Hourly

Location : Various

Job Type : Full Time

Job Number : 37622

Department : Solid Waste Management

Opening Date : 11 / 21 / 2025

Closing Date : 11 / 28 / 2025 11 : 59 AM Central

Position Overview

Applications accepted from : All persons interested

Division / Section : North and South / Operations

Workdays & Hours : Shift work may include mandatory overtime, weekends, holidays, and disaster recovery

• subject to change

Description of Duties / Essential Functions

The purpose of the Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) is to provide solid waste services to the citizens of Houston through the collection, disposal, and recycling of discarded material in a manner that is safe, efficient, environmentally sound, and cost-effective. This position is also considered an essential worker and frontline responder during disaster recovery efforts and may require mandatory overtime on scheduled workdays, weekends, holidays, and in response to disaster recovery efforts. This individual will operate the prentice loader hydraulic gripper assembly and truck, two-way radio and safety equipment (i.e., fire extinguishers, road reflectors, and personal safety equipment). Transport refuse materials to and from specified destinations, i.e., landfills, neighborhood depository sites, transfer stations, and resource recovery facilities. Perform pre / post-trip maintenance and related vehicle checks and operator services, i.e., fluid levels, air pressures, washing vehicles, etc. Complete and submit records on check in time, number and tonnage of loads, amount of fuel used, and odometer readings. Prepare a daily report of operations. Must provide own safety shoes.

Working Conditions : The position requires stooping, bending, and / or lifting of items of up to 30 pounds with occasional periods of walking on rough surfaces. There are routine exposures to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture, and air pollution. The position may involve periodic exposure to chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises, and minor burns. Requires the ability to make fairly complex coordinated and sequenced motor movements in response to quickly changing external stimuli.

Minimum Requirements

Educational Requirements : Basic knowledge of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and simple mathematical functions like percentages, ratios, etc. as might normally be acquired through the attainment of a high school diploma or GED.

Experience Requirements : Two (2) years of experience in the operation of plant and automotive equipment are required.

License Requirements : Must have a valid CDL License Class A that complies with the City of Houston's policy on driving (AP 2-2).

Preferences : Preference will be given to candidates with Class A CDL. Candidates with experience operating the following equipment are a plus : Rear Steer Loader Truck, Overhead Crane, Backhoe, Rear Actor, Cherry Picker, Back Actor, and / or a Tractor Trailer.

General Information

Selection / Skills Tests Required : The selection process will involve application review and / or interview. Safety Impact Position - Yes. This position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.

Salary Information : Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification. Pay Grade : 13

Application Procedures : Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing. Applications must be submitted online at : www.houstontx.gov. To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting : or call 832-393-6079. If you need special services or accommodations, please call (832-393-6079) TTY 7-1-1. If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627. Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process. All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information.

EOE Equal Opportunity Employer : The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include :

For plan details, visit