WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — If you’re looking to re-route your career path, the City of West Palm Beach has multiple opportunities available in the Public Works Department.
New job openings for sanitation operators were posted to the city’s website this week as longtime workers retire.
The demand for more employees will also accommodate the city’s growing population of more than 100,000 residents.
“We're always in need of drivers and operators,” said Leon Pinder, sanitation superintendent for the City of West Palm Beach.
Pinder is celebrating 25 years with the city’s sanitation department and encourages others to apply.
“When I came here, I was working on the back of the truck as a sanitation operator,” said Pinder. “I worked my way up through the ranks.”
High school diploma or GED is required for this position, however, people with little to no experience in the sanitation industry are welcome to apply.
An applicant will be able to obtain a commercial driver’s license through the training process if they’re hired for the position.
“I think this is a great opportunity,” Pinder said. “We're looking for individuals who are dedicated, hardworking, goal-orientated and have good customer service skills to be a part of our team.”
Under direct supervision, a sanitation operator may be assigned to a residential or commercial route.
The trucks are equipped with an iPad to assist drivers with directions and provide feedback when in the field.
Many operators appreciate the technology advancements in the industry over the years.
“I have 30 years of experience in the garbage industry,” said James Hill, a yard waste supervisor for the City of West Palm Beach.
Hill has been managing and assisting with the city’s yard waste pickup and removal for the last five years.
“We don't go home until it's done from start to finish,” Hill said. “We do whatever it takes.”
In addition to the teamwork involved with the position, Hill expressed his gratitude for the people he’s met along his route – especially the residents who take the time to show their appreciation.
“I was over in Flamingo Park the other day picking up after the Christmas holiday,” said Hill. “A lady comes running out to me and said she didn’t have anything to give me for doing such a great job. I said ‘you just did’ and I got a bottle of water out of it too! To me, that’s great. I'll take that all day long and a ‘thank you’.”
The shift will be from Tuesday - Saturday from 5 am to 1 pm, however the position requires the ability to work overtime as needed and holidays are required.
For more information about the opportunities available with the City of West Palm Beach, click here.