Landfill Operator

Salary: $20.68 - $31.01 Hourly
Location : Bradenton, FL
Job Type: Full-Time (Hourly)
Job Number: 26-00127
Department: Utilities
Opening Date: 02/20/2026
Closing Date: 3/9/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

General Information
Work Location: 3333 Lena Road, Bradenton, Florida 34210
Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm
Expected Starting Hourly Range: $20.68 - $25.84

Performs skilled work in the operation of heavy equipment at the Manatee County landfill. Operation of assigned equipment is normally a full-time or predominant task; however, other work is performed as required. Incumbent may provide guidance and direction to less experienced employees.

Working Conditions
Indoor/Outdoor situation. Performs strenuous work in varying and adverse weather conditions. Traverses uneven or rugged terrain. High noise environment while performing certain responsibilities. Lifting and carrying equipment up to 50 lbs. alone; up to 100 lbs. with assistance. Regularly required to drive county vehicles as part of the duties of the job. Able to climb and descend equipment and ladders. Able to bend, stoop, crawl, and reach.

Position requires visual acuity and depth perception, as well as ability to hear and identify sounds. May be required to work other than normal business hours, including weekends and holidays.

Job Description
Essential Functions
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

Safely and efficiently operates heavy equipment such as earth movers, trash compactors, large and small bulldozers and graders, backhoes, and loaders to transport heavy equipment in high traffic areas.

Services, maintains, and assists mechanics in performing repairs to landfill equipment including heavy vehicles, landfill compactors, dozers, elevated scrapers, track backhoes, and specialty equipment.

Ensures access to landfill facility regardless of weather conditions.

Performs general labor as required.

Acts as a crew leader or in a lead capacity, when required. Provides guidance and training to less experienced crew members.

May operate large fuel tanker trucks and perform fueling duties for various types of equipment used in landfill operations.

Follows all established safety standards and procedures.

Attends job-specific training classes as assigned by supervisor.

Performs other related duties as assigned, including participation in emergency or disaster response activities, as required and consistent with the employee's qualifications, essential job functions, and applicable federal and Florida law.

Minimum Qualifications
One (1) or more years of experience operating heavy construction and earthmoving related equipment.

Valid driver license with valid Florida driver license within 30 days of hire.

Valid Florida Commercial Driver's License, Class A OR obtain CDL permit prior to employment and obtain the CDL within one hundred twenty (120) days of hire may be required depending on duties assigned.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications for this position.

More
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Able to comprehend and follow oral and written instructions.

Organizes own work and completes tasks within assigned time frames.

Able to resolve routine situations and problems.

Good knowledge and understanding of heavy equipment operation in a landfill application.

General knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job duties.

General knowledge and understanding of computer applications and software programs required to perform job duties.

Good written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills to be able to interact professionally and effectively with co-workers, management, and other stakeholders.

Able to communicate routine information.

Works under moderate supervision.
Veterans Preference

In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.

EEO/ADA Statement

Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at  x 3865.

Drug-Free Workplace

Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.

Emergency Response/Recovery Activities

All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County…