Heavy Equipment Operator

Salary: See Position Description Location : Gaston County Solid Waste & Recycling Center, NC Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 1572 Department: Solid Waste & Recycling Opening Date: 03/02/2026 FLSA: Non-Exempt Joining the team at Gaston County Government means being part of a community that is dedicated to improving the lives of its citizens. We are a dynamic organization that values innovation, collaboration, and commitment to service. As an employee of Gaston County, you will have the opportunity to make a difference in your community every day. Whether you are working in public safety, social services, or administration, your contributions will help improve the lives of our residents and build a better future for our county. Description The Solid Waste & Recycling Division is primarily responsible for the disposal of Municipal Solid Waste generated in the County as required by North Carolina State Law and in accordance with all applicable local regulations. Gaston County currently uses an integrated solid waste management plan that includes sanitary landfilling, composting/mulching, recycling, and related waste reduction programs. An hourly salary range of $20.43 to $23.75 is anticipated for this position.Examples of Duties The duties listed below are not all that may be assigned, but are considered essential for an employee to perform. Operates the compactor on the MSW working face. Places garbage in the correct location, builds lifts, and sideslopes Operates bulldozers, graders, loaders, excavators, dump trucks, and or compactors as needed. Performs inspections and completes the daily inspection log for any piece of equipment they operate on a given day. Check fluid and grease levels. General maintenance support of landfill infrastructure. Excavates and moves dirt and debris in accordance with a defined procedure. Performs visual inspection and routine maintenance of equipment. Reports the presence of unsafe working conditions or hazardous materials-works as needed at special events such as Household Hazardous Waste Collections, mulch sales, etc. Removes rock from new construction areas. Helps maintain haul roads. Directs traffic into and out of working face areas. Maintain safety procedures on site between County employees and hauling vehicles. Installs fencing and cuts trees and brush. Provides general information to the public. Minimum QualificationsHigh school diploma or GED Two years of heavy equipment operation experience SWANA Landfill Operations Specialist within six months of hire date. Additional InformationThe applicant selected must undergo and pass a drug screening test prior to employment. At Gaston County, we are committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees, job applicants, and members of the community we serve. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable laws. Gaston County will not sponsor applicants for work visas. Full-Time employees are eligible for the total compensation package which includes: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance Life Insurance Flexible Spending Accounts Retirement Savings Plans Pension 401K (with 5% county contribution annually) Flexible Work Schedules Professional Development Opportunities Discounted YMCA Membership Part-Time employees are eligible for certain benefits as a part of employment with Gaston County such as: Pro-Rated Sick and Annual Leave Professional Development Opportunities Local Government Retirement Plan Employee Assistance Program Half-Time employees are not eligible for benefits. To learn more details about the many benefits we provide view our Overall, if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career with competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, Gaston County is the place for you. 01 Which statement below best describes the highest level of education you have completed? High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (GED) Associate degree Bachelor's degree Master's degree Professional degree Doctorate degree 02 Do you have at least two years of experience operating heavy equipment? Yes No 03 Are you willing to obtain the SWANA Landfill Operations Specialist certification within six months of being hired? Yes No Required Question

Created: 2026-03-04