Compost Operator

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Compost Operator

Salary

$72,529.60 - $88,379.20 Annually

Location

CA, CA

Job Type

Full-Time Regular

Job Number

067 23 24 20001152

Division\Department

Regional Composting Authority Unit

Opening Date

04/01/2024

Closing Date

Continuous

THE POSITION:




THE OPPORTUNITY:
Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator specializing in wheel loaders? Do you take pride in putting in a hard day’s work and not afraid of getting your hands dirty? Do you have a passion for contributing to safety in the workplace? The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) has an exciting opportunity for you as a Compost Operator in the Agency's Operations & Maintenance Department at the Inland Empire Regional Composting Facility (IERCF)! Come be a part of IEUA’s world-class organics recycling team!

The perfect candidate for this position will:
  • Be a collaborative individual that values safety.
  • Have experience operating heavy machinery.
  • Possess a class "A" driver's license.
  • Communicate well with others, both verbally and in writing.

Here at the Inland Empire Utilities Agency, we are a leader in water management and environmental stewardship. We strive to produce high-quality renewable products such as recycled water and top-quality compost to enhance and preserve the quality of life throughout our region. Our values go beyond just protecting the resources and the communities we serve. We are committed to applying ethical, transparent, and environmentally sustainable principles to all aspects of business and organizational conduct. We recognize that our commitment to the community starts with our employees. In order to ensure that our staff are able to continue to perform at a high level and provide unparalleled services throughout our service area, we strive to provide a healthy work-life balance.

Here are a few ways the Inland Empire Utilities Agency is committed to helping you feel your best, work your best, and live your best while working with us:

  • A 4-day work week with remote hybrid work schedules for some positions
  • A pension through California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS)
  • Generous employer monthly health benefit allowances to go towards the cost of medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Competitive vacation, floating holiday, sick time in addition to 9 agency paid holidays
  • Education Reimbursement up to $5,250 per fiscal year
  • Professional Development Stipend of $1,000 per fiscal year
  • Basic life insurance coverage provided
  • Wellness Stipend of $500 per fiscal year
  • 457b Deferred Compensation Contribution
  • Interest free loan for a computer purchase up to $3,000




This position is open until filled. The deadline for the first review of applications is 11:59 PM on Monday, April 15, 2024.  Applicants that submit applications after the first review deadline are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment.  This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline.
 
 
There is one (1) vacancy in the Organics Management Unit.
 
This recruitment will establish an eligibility list which may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur during the active status of the eligibility list.

Salary Range: GU 174
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Probationary Period: 12 months

 
Under general supervision, performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled tasks in the operation of a variety of light, medium and heavy-duty motorized general hauling, construction and maintenance equipment utilized in the operation of an indoor composting facility; performs routing servicing, minor repairs and maintenance of the facility's equipment; and performs related duties as assigned.
       
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
A Compost Operator performs journey-level duties in the operation of front-end loaders and other equipment related to the production of compost. Work must be performed with skill and precision, with constant attention to crew safety in an indoor environment that includes tight work areas and adverse atmospheric conditions. Duties and responsibilities are carried out with considerable independence within a framework of established policies and procedures.

Employees in this class typically report to a Compost Facility Supervisor.


EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the class.

Operates large front-end loaders, backhoes, dump trucks, pickup trucks, skip loaders, skid steers, water trucks and other light, medium and heavy-duty motorized equipment associated with the operation of the facility; moves composting material through various stages of the process; adds material and mixtures at various stages of the process.

Performs visual safety inspections of equipment such as loaders, conveyers, belts, hoppers, screens and fans; completes inspection sheets; reports need for repair; performs minor maintenance tasks such as operating fans, making adjustments, fueling, refilling fluids and cleaning.

Directs inbound trucks with biosolids, amendment and materials needed to create compost product to material drop-off area; loads various types and sized customer trucks to Department of Transportation standards; moves finished materials to outdoor storage areas, and may remove debris and waste products from the facility.

Monitors material using sensor probes for proper temperature and fire; operates fans and blowers to adjust temperatures and improve air quality; operates Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system within assigned work area.

Performs housekeeping duties in the facility including cleaning and removing waste products, cleaning screens and vents, and janitorial tasks.

Prepares a variety of work reports and records; attends meetings; participates in Authority and Agency safety training.  

May be required to operate a truck scale.

May act for a Senior Operations and Maintenance Technician in that individual's absence.


QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES:

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:
Graduation from high school or GED equivalent and at least two years of progressively responsible experience in the operation of construction-related tools and equipment including a front loader; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred.
 
LICENSES; CERTIFICATES; SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
A valid California Class C driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Agency's vehicle insurance program.
 
Weigh Master Certificate is highly desired.
 
KNOWLEDGE OF:
Operation of large front-end loaders and other light, medium to heavy equipment.

Maintenance and minor repair of assigned equipment.

Operation and usage of portable onboard SCADA system to monitor temperatures.

Shop mathematics.

Mixtures and formulas for various types and classifications of compost.

Appropriate business ordinances, codes, procedures and practices regarding area of assignment.

Federal and state regulations regarding the production, storage and transportation of composted organic and biosolid materials.

Safety policies and safe work practices applicable to the work.

Fire safety procedures and emergency response procedures.
 
ABILITY TO:
Operate, properly position equipment and manipulate controls to ensure smooth, efficient and safe operation of a variety of construction equipment relevant to work requirements.

Safely work in a challenging environment with ammonia vapors, odors from the compost process, hot and humid conditions, indoor fog, artificial lighting and a high number of stationary obstacles.

Perform mathematical calculations and maintain records related to the compost process.

Identify and implement effective courses of action to complete assigned work.

Read and interpret plans, specifications and manuals.

Exercise independent judgment and initiative within established guidelines.

Be medically authorized to be fitted for and wear a respirator.

Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Understand and follow written and oral instructions.

Operate a computer and standard business software.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with all those encountered in the course of work.


SELECTION PROCESS:

All employment applications will be reviewed for accuracy, completion, relevant experience, education, training and other job-related qualifications. Applicants with the strongest background relating to the responsibilities of this position will be invited to participate in the testing process which may include one or more of the following: written test, oral interview, performance/practical examination. The successful candidate will be required to pass a background/reference check and pre-employment physical examination including a drug screen (for safety sensitive position) at no cost to the candidate. Please visit our website at www.ieua.org and select the Human Resources Department for additional information regarding the Agency, the hiring process and benefit information.
 
Any applicant requiring reasonable accommodation during the selection process due to a qualified disability must inform the Human Resources Office at (909) 993-1640 or hrdept@ieua.org at least 72 hours in advance of the need for accommodation.
 
 THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.
 
"The Agency's success is obtained by creating a positive and diverse work environment which recognizes individual differences and experiences".

The Agency offers a comprehensive benefit package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a variety of voluntary benefits. Programs and benefit amounts vary and are based on bargaining unit and employment type.
 
This benefits overview is a summary and is not to be considered all-inclusive or applicable to all employees.
 
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.
 
Retirement
California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS):
An employee who becomes a "new" member of CalPERS for the first time on or after January 1, 2013 (and who was not a member of another California public retirement system prior to that date) will be enrolled in the CalPERS 2.0% @ 62 benefit formula with a three-year final compensation in accordance with Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA). New members (PEPRA) will be required to pay half of the normal cost [Govt. Code Section. 7522.30(c)] currently 6.75% of eligible earnings toward the employee contribution.
 
An employee who is a "classic" member of CalPERS, or a current member of another California public retirement system, who is hired on or after January 1, 2012, will be enrolled in the CalPERS 2.0% @ 55 benefit formula with a three-year final compensation. Classic members shall contribute 7% of eligible earnings toward the employee contribution.
 
Social Security/Medicare:
Along with CalPERS retirement, the Agency also participates in Social Security and Medicare. The Agency pays 7.65% on your behalf [6.2% Social Security + 1.45% Medicare], and the employee pays 7.65% via payroll taxes. 
 
Medical
The Agency shall make a maximum monthly contribution towards the cost of his/her health insurance as follows:
 
Agency Medical Contribution 


Health insurance is offered through CalPERS, and enrollment is optional with evidence of health coverage from another source. Eligible employees who waive their medical benefit receive a cash incentive payment. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following enrollment.
 
Dental and Vision Insurance
The Agency offers two dental plans – Delta Dental (PPO) and Western Dental (DPO). Enrollment in one of the plans is mandatory. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following enrollment.
 
Vision insurance is offered through EyeMed Vision Plan and enrollment is voluntary. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following enrollment.
 
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Plan
Upon completion of six months of employment, employees may participate in the Agency's Section 125 Cafeteria Program. Participants in this program may take advantage of tax savings offered through a medical care flexible spending account, a dependent care flexible spending account, or purchase supplemental benefits including critical illness and accident insurance with pre-tax dollars. In addition, employees can purchase supplemental life insurance with post-tax dollars.
 
Term Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
Life and AD&D insurance is offered through Cigna Life Insurance. Executive Management employees are provided with 1 time their annual earnings up to $300,000. Unrepresented Management employees are provided with an Agency paid $90,000 Life and AD&D policy. Unrepresented non-management, and members of the Supervisors', Laboratory, Professional, General, or Operators' Unit are provided an Agency paid $50,000 Life and AD&D policy. Enrollment into a basic $10,000 Life and AD&D policy is required and paid by the employee. Employees may purchase dependent life, for their spouse and/or eligible child(ren), or additional Life and AD&D coverage for themselves up to $500,000. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following date of hire. 
 
Disability Insurance
Employees are insured by an Agency-paid long-term disability insurance, which will provide income for an employee who is totally disabled from illness, injury, or accident. The basic benefit provides for 60% of the first $10,000 of monthly salary, reduced by deductible income, after a 365-day waiting period. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.
 
Short-term disability insurance is available through State Disability Insurance (SDI). Employees covered by SDI are covered by two programs: Disability Insurance and Paid Family Leave. Per applicable MOU and/or Personnel Manual, cash-out option available. 
 
Employee Assistance Program
Agency employees are provided access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) which provides 24/7 assistance needed to help resolve life's challenges. 

401(a) & 457(b) Deferred Compensation
Participation in a 457 deferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. The Agency will contribute $25.00 per pay period to a single 457(b) account for each employee who has made an elective deferral of twenty-five ($25) or more to the plan. Also, participation in a 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan is available within 60 days of hire. 
 
Flexible Work Arrangements
Whenever possible, the Agency strives to be flexible to help employees achieve a balance between work and home responsibilities. Most employees participate in a 4/10 work week.

PAID TIME OFF
Holidays

The Agency offers nine (9) paid holidays. Additional paid floating holidays are available every fiscal year as follows:Executive Management:6 Floating Holidays per FY & 6 Executive Leave days
Unrepresented Management:10 Floating Holidays per FY
Unrepresented Non-Management:6 Floating Holidays per FY
Supervisors’ Unit:8 Floating Holidays per FY
Laboratory Unit:5 Floating Holidays per FY
Professional Unit6 Floating Holidays per FY
Operators’ Association:6 Floating Holidays per FY
General Unit:60 hours Floating Holidays per FY

Vacation Leave
Employees accrue 80 hours of vacation leave per year depending on length of employment, progressing to 200 hours per year. Executive Management employees accrue 120 hours of vacation leave per year depending on length of service, progressing to 240 hours per year. Per applicable MOU and/or Personnel Manual, cash-out option available.

Sick Leave
Employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.
 
Vehicle Allowance
Executive Management and Unrepresented Management employees may receive a monthly vehicle allowance.

Safety Equipment Stipend 
Members of the Laboratory Unit shall be provided with safety glasses. Payment shall be on a reimbursement basis, not to exceed $250 per fiscal year. Additionally, Laboratory members will receive $300 safety equipment stipend. 

Professional Development Stipend 
Employees not on original probation shall be entitled to a professional development stipend of one thousand dollars ($1000) per calendar year. The professional development stipend shall be paid every twenty-fifth (25th) pay period. Refer to specific MOU or Personnel Manual for details and payment information. 

Educational Reimbursement Program
The Agency may reimburse eligible employees for the cost of educational courses up to $5,250 per fiscal year for the cost of educational expenses that are related to the employee's work. Limited Term employees are not eligible for this benefit. 

Wellness Stipend
Employees not on original probation shall be entitled to a wellness stipend of five hundred dollars ($500) per calendar year. The wellness stipend shall be paid every twenty-fifth (25th) pay period. 

Computer Loan Program
Eligible employees may receive an interest-free loan up to $3,000 to purchase a personal computerLimited Term employees are not eligible for this benefit.
 
This benefits overview is a summary and is not to be considered all-inclusive or applicable to all employees.

01
I understand that I must thoroughly complete the Education (including high school information regardless of any additional higher education), Employment History (including contact information and reason for leaving), Certificates & Licenses, and Supplemental Questions sections of my application, as applicable. This includes a detailed description of all work experience for at least the last ten years, if applicable. I also understand that I may not submit resumes in lieu of filling out the application or answering the Supplemental Questions.
  • Yes
  • No
02
I have read the above statement and understand that failure to provide sufficient information may result in my application being rejected.
  • Yes
  • No
03
Do you possess a valid California Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No
04
Please list any special endorsements you possess as part of your Driver's License. For example, air brake, tanker and/or hazardous endorsement, (If you do not have any special endorsements, state "not applicable.")
05
Check the type of driver's license you possess. Note: For out-of-state applicants, a valid driver's license is required and a valid California Class "C" driver's license must be obtained within ten (10) days of appointment (CA Vehicle Code 12505c).
  • Class C
  • Class B
  • Class A
  • Out of State
  • I have no driver's license, California or otherwise
06
Have you graduated from high school or obtained your GED equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No
07
Do you possess at least two years of progressively responsible experience in the operation of construction-related tools and equipment including a front loader?
  • Yes
  • No
08
Do you possess the equivalent combination of education, training and experience to equal a high school diploma or GED and a minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible experience in the operation of construction-related tools and equipment including a front loader?
  • Yes
  • No
09
If you answered yes to the previous question, please describe in detail the equivalent combination of education, training and experience that makes you eligible for this position. Please note: Incomplete answers such as "see resume" will remove you from further consideration.
10
Which option below best describes your highest level of education? (NOTE: You will be required to verify your education level if you continue in the selection process.)
  • Some high school
  • High school or G.E.D.
  • Some college
  • Associate's degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's degree
  • Doctorate degree
  • None
11
If you answered Associate's degree or higher for your education please enter your major here: (If you do not have an Associate's degree or higher, state "not applicable.")
12
Check the number years that best describes your experience in operating a Front-End Loader.
  • No experience
  • Less than 1 year
  • 1 to 5 years
  • 6 to 10 years
  • 11 to 15 years
  • 16 to 20 years
  • More than 20 years
13
Describe your work experience loading bulk material onto semi-trucks and/or loading hoppers with a front-end loader. (If you do not have experience, state "no experience.")
14
List the different types of hand and power tools you have experience using/operating.
15
Check the safety or related certification(s) you possess.
  • None
  • CPR/First Aid
  • Confined Space
  • First Responder
  • HAZWOPER
  • Other
16
If you selected "Other" in question 15, briefly describe any other safety or related certifications you possess.
17
Indicate the number of years of experience, if any, operating the following heavy-duty motorized vehicle and/or equipment:
Aerial Lifts
  • None
  • 0-1 year
  • 1-5 years
  • 6-10 years
  • More than 10 years
18
Indicate the number of years of experience, if any, operating the following heavy-duty motorized vehicle and/or equipment:
Bob Cat
  • None
  • 0-1 year
  • 1-5 years
  • 6-10 years
  • More than 10 years
19
Indicate the number of years of experience, if any, operating the following heavy-duty motorized vehicle and/or equipment:
Dump Truck
  • None
  • 0-1 year
  • 1-5 years
  • 6-10 years
  • More than 10 years
20
Indicate the number of years of experience, if any, operating the following heavy-duty motorized vehicle and/or equipment:
Motorized Sweepers
  • None
  • 0-1 year
  • 1-5 years
  • 6-10 years
  • More than 10 years
21
Indicate the number of years of experience, if any, operating the following heavy-duty motorized vehicle and/or equipment:
Scissor Lift
  • None
  • 0-1 year
  • 1-5 years
  • 6-10 years
  • More than 10 years
22
Indicate the number of years of experience, if any, operating the following heavy-duty motorized vehicle and/or equipment:
Skid Steer
  • None
  • 0-1 year
  • 1-5 years
  • 6-10 years
  • More than 10 years
23
Indicate the number of years of experience, if any, operating the following heavy-duty motorized vehicle and/or equipment:
Skip Loader
  • None
  • 0-1 year
  • 1-5 years
  • 6-10 years
  • More than 10 years
24
Indicate the number of years of experience, if any, operating the following heavy-duty motorized vehicle and/or equipment:
Water Trucks
  • None
  • 0-1 year
  • 1-5 years
  • 6-10 years
  • More than 10 years
25
If you have any other experience operating heavy-duty motorized vehicles and/or equipment that is not listed in questions 17-24, please state your other experience here:
26
Some of the essential functions of this position may require employees to work in confined spaces, noisy environments, and all types of weather conditions including extremely hot, humid conditions. Are you able and willing to abide by these requirements?
  • Yes
  • No
27
The position requires the ability to work indoors under artificial light and foggy conditions. Are you able and willing to abide by these requirements?
  • Yes
  • No
28
Exposure to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, biological hazards, organic waste, noxious odors, gases and poor ventilation may occur. Are you able and willing to abide by these requirements?
  • Yes
  • No
29
The position requires the ability to regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds (alone) and occasionally over 100 pounds (with assistance). Are you able and willing to abide by these requirements?
  • Yes
  • No
30
Are you willing to operate and be held accountable for Agency vehicles and equipment?
  • Yes
  • No
31
The position requires the ability to work varying shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, responded to call backs, on call duty and may be required to work alone. Are you able and willing to abide by these requirements?
  • Yes
  • No
32
Incumbents in this classification are required at times to wear dust and ammonia filtering respirators, and may be required to use SCBA gear in conformance with the Respiratory Protection Program. In accordance with CAL/OSHA regulations and Agency policy, incumbents are allowed a mustache not to extend below the mouth and/or a soul patch (a small tuft of hair immediately under the lower lip) not to reach the chin, and are required to pass an annual quantitative face fit test and receive medical certification every 2 years. Are you able and willing to abide by these requirements?
  • Yes
  • No
33
Individuals selected for the position will serve a 12-month original/technical probation period. Individuals serving an original probation period may be terminated at any time during the 12-month period. Are you able and willing to abide by these requirements?
  • Yes
  • No
34
I hereby understand and declare that the statements on this supplemental questionnaire are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. As applicable, I hereby authorize the Agency and/or designees to contact the references listed to verify the information I have supplied. I hereby release from liability all persons and organizations furnishing such information. I understand that the Agency reserves the right to validate information received on the supplemental questionnaire and that I will be subject to disqualification and/or termination if any statement in this supplemental questionnaire is found to be untrue or determined to be misleading.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Agency
Inland Empire Utilities Agency
Address
6075 Kimball Ave.

Chino, California, 91708
Phone
909-993-1600