Refuse Collection Operator

Refuse Collection Operator

Salary

$58,611.94 - $70,482.85 Annually

Location

1500 Scribner Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI

Job Type

Permanent

Job Number

324-0826

Department

Public Services

Opening Date

08/04/2026

Closing Date

8/15/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Nature of Work

As a Refuse Collection Operator you will drive a refuse collection vehicle, equipped with a mechanical/robotic-arm, in the collection, transport, and disposal of refuse and recycling material. Utilize tablet, route management software and cameras in the completion of designated collection routes, throughout the city. Performs under minimal supervision. Trains, guides and assists other employees.

In addition to a dynamic work culture, we offer great benefits: medical, dental, and vision coverage starting Day 1, a 401a contribution with employer matching, paid vacation and sick time, 12 paid holidays, paid parking (if applicable), and more. You'll also have access to tuition reimbursement, wellness incentives, paid parental leave, and an Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling.

Join us in supporting a thriving community while growing in your career!

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

• Operates refuse truck, some with hydraulic arm to move heavy, sometimes frozen carts and trash baskets
• Operates tablet to navigate routes, verify Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags, register and document completed work and report violations, notes customer accounts
• Collects refuse from sidewalk receptacles
• Responds to work order requests for pickup of City refuse, illegal dumping, dead animals and other violations of City code
• Makes one-way and special route pick-ups of appliances and other bulk items as requested
• Operates onboard camera to take photographs to document violations of City code and ordinances.
• Performs snow and ice removal with snowplows on City streets; Operates front-end loader to load salt
• Explains and clarifies Refuse Ordinance to citizens; issues violation if necessary
• Performs related work as required

To view the full job description click HERE.

Minimum Training and Experience

Required Education and Experience

• High school diploma (or GED equivalent)
• -AND--
• At least one (1) years of experience operating large trucks, preferably a refuse collection of similar vehicles
• -OR--
• Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities

Required Licenses or Certifications

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

THIS IS A SAFETY-SENSITIVE POSITION SUBJECT TO THE DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOT) RANDOM DRUG & ALCOHOL TESTING PROGRAM. A DOT WAIVER FORM MUST BE COMPLETED WHEN AN APPLICATION IS SUBMITTED.

Other Information

We offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
• 6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)
• Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
• Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
• Twelve Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Paid parking (if applicable)
• Employee Home Ownership Incentive
• Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
• Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
• Employee Discounts and Perks

Should an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application

The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

Please Note:

This position is subject to the provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement and all relevant civil service rules. For additional information, links to union agreement and Civil Service Rules are provided below.

Collective Bargaining Agreements

Civil Service Rules

City of Grand Rapids Employee Benefits Webpage

01

Do you possess a high school diploma or equivalent?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have at least one (1) years of experience operating large trucks ?

• Yes
• No

03

If you have operated large trucks in the past, please list the types of trucks you have operated. Thank you.

04

Select the option that best reflects your experience driving and operating a refuse collection truck.

• No experience
• One to Two years
• Three or more years

05

Do you possess a valid Michigan Commercial Drivers License (CDL)?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer City of Grand Rapids

Address 300 Monroe Ave, NW

8th Floor, Room 880

Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49503-2206

Phone (616) 456-3176

Website http://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/jobs/human-resources-Department