Waste Operator I

Summary

We are seeking a diligent and safety-minded Hazardous, Non-hazardous Waste and Universal Waste Operator to join our team. The Waste Operator is responsible for the safe handling, packaging, transportation, and disposal of various categories of hazardous waste materials. Waste Operator responsibilities include identifying, sorting, packaging, and transporting hazardous materials in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. Our ideal candidates are detail-oriented, have a strong commitment to safety, and are knowledgeable about hazardous waste handling and disposal procedures.

Responsibilities

• Identify, collects , segregates and transports hazardous waste and non-hazardous waste from generation points to the recycling building.
• Identify potential problems and risks to implement effective solutions promptly
• Regularly inspects the waste areas where hazardous waste is stored and evaluates compliance; tracks accumulation start dates of satellite storage containers.
• Ensure that all hazardous waste management activities are conducted in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
• Prepare and maintain detailed records (types, volume, etc.) and documentation of hazardous waste management activities
• Provide training and guidance to staff and contractors on safe handling and disposal of hazardous waste materials
• Conduct regular audits of hazardous waste management processes and procedures to identify and address areas for improvement
• Attend training programs to stay updated with hazardous waste handling procedures
• Communicate with other departments to provide clear instructions and warnings regarding non-hazardous and hazardous wastes
• Effectively use protective gear and safety equipment to minimize exposure to hazardous substances
• Operate and maintain waste handling equipment, such as forklifts, drum crushers, and waste compactors
• Follow emergency procedures in case of a hazardous waste spill
• Maintain cleanliness of work areas
• This position supports essential manufacturing operations and may require working day or night shifts, weekends, holidays, overtime, and reporting to work during emergency situations, inclement weather events, or other operational disruptions when it is safe to do so.
• Perform other duties as assigned
  
  

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations regarding hazardous waste preferred
• Must operate hazardous waste handling equipment such as a fork lift , pallet jack, and lever-lock ring & lid for 55-gallon drums
• Required certifications and trainings (e.g., Forklift Operation; General Safety Training; DOT Hazardous Material Training; Fire extinguisher Training; RCRA Hazardous Waste Management Training; Spill Prevention and Response Training) will be provided by the company and must be successfully completed within 6 months of hire
• May be required to respond to after-hours operational issues or emergency events in support of facility infrastructure, utilities systems, or safe plant operations.
  
  

Experience

• Minimum of 1 years’ experience as a hazardous material Operator trainee or equivalent preferred.
• 1 years of Forklift experience
• At least 1 year of continuous work history with a single employer in the last 5 years
  
  

Skills

• Utilizes technology effectively to enhance productivity, communication, and data management.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate other teams
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills to prioritize and manage multiple tasks
• Strong knowledge of environmental regulations and safety standards pertaining to the disposal of hazardous waste preferred
• Attention to detail and commitment to safety
• Teamwork abilities to effectively collaborate with others in managing waste in a safe and compliant manner
• Must pass an annual medical examination, which may include screens for toxic and heavy metals exposure.
• Is capable of using and skilled in the use of full-face respirators, SCBA, and safety equipment; pumps and compressors; cargo tanker trucks and forklifts. Frequently lift heavy objects and work in various weather conditions
• Physical stamina and strength to handle heavy waste materials and equipment for extended periods
  
  

Physical Requirements

Must be able to properly and regularly utilize the following PPE for a period of up to 12 hours:

• Safety glasses
• Steel-toed shoes
• Nitrile gloves
• Ear protection
• Cleanroom suit
  
  

Must be able to perform the following activities repeatedly for periods of up to 12 hours:

• Lift, push, and pull materials or equipment
• Stoop, twist, and bend
• Reach overhead
• Sit and/or stand for extended periods
• Use hands and fingers to operate tools, equipment, and computer systems
  
  

Work Environment

• Work may involve handling or working in proximity to hazardous materials and regulated industrial chemicals.
• Exposure to chemical vapors, dust, or other controlled substances may occur depending on process assignment.
• Strict adherence to company safety policies and OSHA Hazard Communication requirements is mandatory.
• Employees must properly wear and maintain assigned personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times within designated areas.
• Required PPE may include respirators, chemical-resistant garments, gloves, eye protection, face shields, or other equipment determined by process and risk assessment.
  
  

HL-GA Battery Company is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that values the diversity of its workforce.