Job Description:

The Calvert County Government’s Department of Public Works Solid Waste Division is seeking a Recycling Operations Technician to help keep Calvert County clean and green. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of our recycling program, working under the guidance of the Recycling Coordinator to ensure smooth, safe, and efficient operations. Your responsibilities will include operating equipment such as forklifts, bobcats, and commercial trucks to transport and process recyclable materials; handling and sorting items like batteries, electronics, fluorescent bulbs, motor oil, cooking oil, metals, and other accepted materials; and setting up and maintaining recycling collection areas and compactor sites for routine operations and special events. You’ll also assist with community programs such as routine Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) events and paper shredding programs. This position requires hands-on work, attention to detail, and a commitment to environmental stewardship. If you enjoy working outdoors, operating equipment, and serving your community, this is the job for you!

Position is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of the County’s recycling program under the direct supervision of the Recycling Coordinator as it relates to field operations and waste stream management.  Responsible for operation and maintenance of recycling waste stream compactor sites, off-site collection areas, operation of Household Hazardous Waste Program (HHW) and green waste recovery. Work is performed under technical supervision.

Essential Job Functions

Directs daily field operations, including coordination of community service workers.

Coordinates various waste and disposal programs.

Sets up collection sites for routine and special recyclable materials collection events.

Schedules vendors for pickup.

Examines loaded recyclable materials to ensure transport readiness.

Participates in coordinating, monitoring and reporting on recycling programs and sites.

Keeps records and prepares reports as required.

Tracks recyclable materials that includes site inspections and pickup of items.

Drives truck and bobcat in performance of duties.

Services and maintains all recycling containers at various locations.

Segregates and packages household hazardous waste; transports household hazardous waste; schedules household hazardous waste pick-up; prepares forms and reports, and maintains records of transport; ensures transport vehicles are inspected as required.

Assists with the cleaning and maintenance of the recycling facilities and infrastructure.

Assists in supervising existing recyclable contracts and developing new ones.

Trains and orients other employees in recycling operations and goals.

Attends State and Federal meetings related to this field representing the County’s interests; ensures State mandates are met.

Responds to emergency calls; assists with clean-up of minor chemical spills.

Other Duties

Performs related work as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (These are pre-employment KSA that apply only to Essential Job Functions.)

Knowledge of--

• Safe work methods and safety practices pertaining to the work.

• Laws, rules and regulations governing hazardous and recyclable materials collection programs including material handling, transportation and storage.

• General maintenance procedures as applied to the maintenance of recycling drop-off sites and the equipment used in the recycling program.

• Basic record keeping principles and practices.

Skill in--

• Assisting in planning and coordinating materials collection and other waste management and recycling programs.

• Safe storing and transporting hazardous materials.

• Interpreting and applying state and federal regulations.

• Interpreting and applying safety rules and operating and maintenance instructions.

• Preparing and maintaining a variety of accurate and clear written records, correspondence and other written materials pertaining to the work.

• Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.

Ability to--

• Perform solid waste support work involving vehicle operation, general maintenance and office duties.

• Follow oral and written instructions.

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

• Deal effectively with the public.

Required Qualifications (Note: Any acceptable combination of education, training and relevant experience that provides the above knowledge, abilities and skills may be substituted on a full-time year for year basis.)

Training and/or Education:

High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Experience:

Three years collection and management of recyclable materials experience.

Licenses or Certificates:

24 Hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) or must successfully complete within 30 days of employment.

Valid Class B commercial driver’s license and a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate in accordance with Federal Regulations.

Special Requirements:

Must be 18 years of age.

Operation of County owned vehicle.

Subject to alcohol and drug testing.

Physical Demands:

Requires strenuous physical effort to perform manual work involving long periods of standing, frequent walking indoors and outdoors, repeated bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching; recurring lifting of objects up to 100 pounds.

Unusual Demands:

Worker is exposed to dirt and soil, solid waste, chemicals and hazards.  Operating vehicle in traffic and working around moving equipment.

Must be willing to regularly work with hazardous materials and wastes.

May be required to work evenings, weekends and holidays.

Subject to call in or to remain on the job for emergencies.

FLSA Status:

Nonexempt

Compensation Steps:

Pay rate: $25.50 - $27.31 per hour; $53,040 - $56,805 annually

Grade 718, full-time position, 35 hours per week

Department of Public Works, Solid Waste

Position closing date: January 12, 2026

Please Note: This position will close at 11:59 p.m. on January 12, 2026. To be considered for the role, ensure that your application is submitted before the deadline. The position will be removed from the website as of 12:00 a.m. on January 13th.

Calvert County Government offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees' health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Benefits include:

• 15 days of sick leave
• 10 days of annual leave
• 5 days of personal leave
• 13 paid holidays *14 in an election year
• Defined Contribution Plan
• 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible spending accounts
• Up to 80% tuition reimbursement
• Gym membership discounts

Please Note: A complete application is required to be considered for a position within Calvert County Government. All prior work experience, education, and other certifications should be entered into the application and supplemental questions should be answered completely. Attachments are not provided to hiring managers unless you are selected for an interview.

Calvert County Government is committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact Human Resources at recruitment@calvertcountymd.gov with as much notice as possible.