Lee County is seeking a skilled and dependable Heavy Equipment Operator to join our Solid Waste Department.
In this role, you will safely operate large equipment and vehicles to support waste processing, recycling, and disposal at the Resource Recovery Facility on Buckingham Road. Your work will help keep our community clean, safe, and environmentally responsible.
You will play an important part in daily operations by handling materials, completing safety checks, and helping customers and coworkers. This is an essential position, especially during County emergency events or natural disasters.
This job is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, can operate heavy machinery safely, and takes pride in doing quality work that supports our community.
What You Will Do
Operate heavy equipment such as front-loaders, backhoes, excavators, and skid steers
Drive Class E vehicles, including pick-up trucks and light-duty vehicles
Perform and document daily safety inspections on vehicles and equipment
Test equipment and identify issues or malfunctions
Complete light preventative maintenance, including greasing parts, cleaning filters, and refilling fluids
Direct and control traffic safely, including traffic on the tipping floor
Use hand signals and two-way radios to communicate with coworkers and drivers
Check incoming waste for prohibited or unsafe materials
Identify different waste types to ensure correct disposal and charges
Sort, separate, move, load, compact, and recycle waste materials
Assist customers and provide information on proper disposal practices and facility locations
Work with contractors and other County departments as needed
Wash vehicles and equipment, clean interiors, and help with general housekeeping
Complete daily work logs and required paperwork
Help keep facility grounds clean through sweeping, shoveling, and litter control
Inspect operations to ensure they follow permitted and environmental requirements
Perform other related duties as assigned
What We’re Looking For
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of training and experience
One (1) year of experience operating heavy construction equipment
Three (3) years of experience preferred
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record
Ability to safely work in a solid waste environment and lift up to 100 pounds
Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform physical tasks such as standing, crawling, sitting, and kneeling
Certification
16-hour Florida Solid Waste Operator certification
(Or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire)
Preferred Skills and Qualities
Knowledge of environmental solid waste regulations
Ability to operate different types of heavy equipment safely and effectively
Ability to identify and understand equipment gauges and detect malfunctions
Skills in basic preventative maintenance
Familiarity with tools used for equipment upkeep
Strong communication skills with coworkers, customers, and supervisors
Ability to stay safe, follow procedures, and work well on a team
Good attention to detail and ability to complete paperwork accurately
Work Schedule:Monday–Friday,9:30 am - 6:00 pm.Saturdays as needed. Shift hours may vary depending on assignment
Why Join Us?
As a Heavy Equipment Operator with Lee County, you help keep our community clean, safe, and environmentally responsible. You will work with a supportive team, build your skills, and play a key role in the County’s waste and recycling operations.
About the Department
The Lee County Solid Waste Department provides safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible waste and recycling services for our community. The department manages waste collection, disposal, recycling programs, household chemical waste, and long-term sustainability efforts. Solid Waste works closely with residents, businesses, and partners to help keep Lee County clean and environmentally sustainable.
About Lee County:
Lee County is located in beautiful Southwest Florida and is home to over 800,000 residents. We are dedicated to serving our community with high-quality services and a focus on sustainability and innovation. Join us in making Lee County a great place to live, work, and visit. Find out more about Lee County at Lee County Government.