Solid Waste Truck Operator II

Salary : $61,394.53 - $72,935.41 Annually
Location : Pasadena City Yards, CA
Job Type: Full -Time
Job Number: 26-149
Department: Public Works
Division: Resource Recovery andRecycling
Opening Date: 04/02/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
The City of Pasadena's Public Works Department is seeking a safety oriented and self-motivated Solid Waste Truck Operator II to drive a three-axle refuse packer truck on rotating routes and operate automated controls to lift, dump, and replace refuse containers at the curb.
The ideal candidate will possess recent experience in refuse collection including the operation of a 3-axle automated refuse packer. The successful candidate will be dependable, take initiative, possess effective time management, and maintain safety standards as well as a strong work ethic.
Please note: This recruitment is open continuous and is subject to close at any time. A first review of applications is scheduled for April 23, 2026. Apply now!
Essential Functions
The following list represents some of the essential functions of this position. For more detailed information, please review the

• Checks daily route assignments and inspects condition of assigned vehicles.
• Communicates with dispatcher, supervisor, and other drivers via two-way radio.
• Operates and drives loaded truck to disposal area and unloads refuse.
• Keeps supervisor informed on operations and prepares written reports on injuries to personnel, equipment, and property.
• Promotes and practices on-the-job safety.
• Responds to routine customer inquiries.
• Cleans and services refuse truck as required.
• Evaluates the work of operations personnel.

Qualification Guidelines
COMPETENCIES
The following list represents the core competencies needed for success in this position.

• Teamwork - Collaborating with others to achieve Division's shared goals
• Safety Focus - Showing vigilance and care in identifying and addressing health risks and safety hazards
• Manual Dexterity - Using senses, hands, and fingers in manipulating objects quickly and efficiently
• Self-Management - Showing personal organization, self-discipline, and dependability
• Customer Focus - Attending to the needs and expectation of customers

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• One year of refuse collection or related field experience, including the operation of a 3-axle automated refuse packer.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Three (3) or more years of experience in refuse collection or related field experience.

SELECTION PROCESS
The selection process will consist of any combination of application evaluation, written exam, oral panel interview, department interview and may be required to complete a brief soft-skills assessment during the selection process. The candidate assessment provides insight into core interpersonal skills, behavioral traits, and preferred work environment-helping us support your success in the role.
VACANCY INFORMATION
There is currently one vacancy in the Resource Recovery & Recycling Division of the Public Works Department. As a result of the selection process, an eligible list will be established which will be used to fill this vacancy and other similar vacancies that may occur in the future.
Candidates selected for this position are subject to a one-year probationary work period.
Special Requirements
Must have a valid Class B California Driver's License at the time of appointment and as a condition of continued employment.
Retirement:
The City of Pasadena contracts with the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) to offer a defined benefits program for eligible employees.
"New" CalPERS members are subject to the provisions of the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA) and receive the following benefit formula: 2% at 62
"Classic" members of CalPERS receive the following benefit formula: 2.5% at 55
Deferred Compensation:
The City offers a 457(b) deferred compensation plan to help employees save for their retirement and supplement their CalPERS pension. Employees can defer salary with pre-tax or Roth after-tax deductions.
Health Insurance:
The City contracts with CalPERS to offer several comprehensive health plans that include Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO).
Other Benefits include:

• Dental Insurance (HMO and PPO plans offered)
• Paid leave (holidays, sick leave, vacation leave)
• City-paid Life and Short-Tem Disability insurance
• Voluntary vision, life, accident, critical illness and long- term disability insurance
• Medical & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Free Employee Assistance Program

01
What type of California Driver's License do you currently possess?

• Class A
• Class B
• CDL Permit
• Out of State Commercial License

02
Do you currently possess a valid California Class A or B license with air brake endorsements?

• Yes
• No

03
Check the Solid Waste Collection equipment you have operated in the last 18 months.

• Heavy-Duty Automated Side-Loader (Solid Waste Collection truck)
• Rear-Loading Solid Waste Truck
• Completed training on Solid Waste Collection truck(s)
• No experience driving any of the equipment listed above

04
Select the option that best describes the years of experience you have operating a 3-axle automated side-loader with an articulating dump arm.

• Less than 1 year
• 1 - 2 years
• 2 - 3 years
• More than 3 years

05
Please indicate the amount of full-time, route-based experience you possess.

• Less than 1 year
• 1 - 2 years
• 2 - 3 years
• More than 3 years

06
Please explain the type of route you have completed (# of routes, types of trucks used for the route, City/company you previously worked for, etc).
Required Question