Are you interested in driving a large vehicle and contributing to recycling efforts? If so, becoming a municipal recycling truck driver might be the perfect fit for you. Read on to discover more about this profession, including the necessary education, salary, and certifications involved.

Education:

The education requirements for becoming a municipal recycling truck driver vary. On average, you would need the necessary training to operate a large truck safely.

Salary:

The average salary for a municipal recycling truck driver is approximately $32.07 per hour, but this can vary depending on factors such as location and experience.

Certifications:

Certifications for municipal recycling truck drivers are not regulated, although specific training in operating the vehicles may be required.

Demand:

There is an approximate demand of 7,000 municipal recycling truck drivers per province per year. This shows that there are ample job opportunities in this field.

Job Description:

As a municipal recycling truck driver, your main responsibilities would include collecting, sorting, and transporting recyclable waste materials such as glass, plastic, metal, and paper. You would follow assigned routes and may operate regular trucks or specially designed collection trucks with features like dual-drive cabs or automated side loaders.

Duties:

  • Inspecting the vehicle and equipment before starting your shift to ensure safety and good working condition.
  • Performing pre-inspection and post-inspection checks on trucks.
  • Conducting daily cleaning, safety, and preventative maintenance checks on assigned equipment.
  • Following a regular pickup route or route card instructions.
  • Loading blue bins or bags into collection units or sorting materials into truck compartments.
  • Answering questions about recycling and providing respectful customer service.
  • Communicating with dispatchers about delays, unsafe sites, accidents, equipment breakdowns, and other maintenance issues.
  • Reporting operational and safety-related incidents to supervisors or forepersons.
  • Returning to recycling depots or warehouses to dump truck contents.
  • Refueling trucks at specified depots.
  • Keeping work areas and trucks clean, and removing snow as required.
  • Staying updated on policies and procedures.
  • Ensuring adherence to health and safety procedures and using required safety personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Completing all necessary paperwork.

Working Conditions:

Municipal recycling truck drivers typically work in shifts, which may include split shifts, afternoons, and weekends.

Traits and Skills:

  • The ability to work steadily and efficiently for an entire shift.
  • The ability to follow directions and complete assigned tasks.
  • The ability to work independently.
  • Confidence and safety consciousness when operating large equipment.

Additionally, individuals considering this profession should enjoy routine and repetitive work, as well as driving.

NOC Classification:

Municipal recycling truck drivers fall under various National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes, including:

  • 2006 NOC: Public Works Maintenance Equipment Operators (7422)
  • 2006 NOC-S: Public Works Maintenance Equipment Operators (H612)
  • 2011 NOC: Public works maintenance equipment operators and related workers (7522)
  • 2016 NOC: Public works maintenance equipment operators and related workers (7522)

Considering these factors, becoming a municipal recycling truck driver can be a rewarding career choice that combines driving skills with a commitment to environmental sustainability.

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