About this position
Patriot Disposal/Apple Valley Waste provides reliable, customer-focused waste and environmental solutions to commercial and municipal customers. We are committed to delivering dependable service, building long-term partnerships, and supporting the communities we serve.
Our team takes a hands-on, proactive approach to meeting customer needs, with a strong focus on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. As a growing organization, we offer a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the field.
Position summary
The Driver safely operates a residential collection truck equipped with automatic side‑load (ASL) equipment to collect waste and/or recyclables from wheeled carts on assigned routes. The driver provides timely, courteous service while following all safety, DOT, and company policies.
Key responsibilities
- Operate a residential refuse truck equipped with automatic side‑loading arm to collect carts along assigned routes.
- Use in‑cab joystick or control panel to position, grab, lift, and dump carts into the hopper while maintaining safe, “eyes‑forward” operation.
- Follow daily route sheets, maps, and onboard routing systems to complete all stops within scheduled timeframes.
- Maintain constant awareness of surroundings, including pedestrians, traffic, parked vehicles, low branches, and other obstacles.
- Handle occasional extra or bulky items in accordance with company guidelines and local regulations.
- Perform daily pre‑trip and post‑trip inspections of the truck and ASL arm, reporting defects or maintenance needs promptly.
- Monitor cart condition and contamination issues, communicating problems to dispatch or supervisors as needed.
- Adhere to all DOT regulations, company safety rules, and local ordinances, including safe backing procedures and proper PPE use.
- Interact professionally with customers, responding politely to questions or concerns encountered on the route.
- Accurately complete required paperwork or electronic logs, including route sheets, inspection reports, scale tickets, and incident reports.
Qualifications
- Valid Class B (or higher) Commercial Driver’s License with air‑brake endorsement (as required by state/local regulations).
- Minimum 1–2 years of commercial driving experience; prior refuse industry or automated collection experience preferred.
- Experience or strong aptitude for operating automatic side‑load equipment from the cab.
- Driving record that meets company and insurance standards.
- Ability to pass required background checks, drug/alcohol screens, and DOT physical.
Skills and abilities
- Solid knowledge of safe operation of heavy trucks, hydraulic systems, and automated collection equipment.
- Ability to maneuver safely in tight residential streets, cul‑de‑sacs, alleys, and congested areas.
- Strong situational awareness and hazard recognition skills.
- Effective communication with dispatch, supervisors, and customers; ability to use onboard computers or handheld devices.
- Strong time‑management skills and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Work environment and physical demands
- Work performed outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow).
- Frequent climbing in and out of the truck cab; occasional lifting, pushing, or pulling of up to 50 pounds.
- Typical workday up to 10–11 hours with early‑morning start times; overtime, weekends, and holidays may be required based on route needs.