Tow Recovery Operator/Mechanic

Position Summary

Perform tow recovery procedure of heavy duty trash collection vehicles and perform roadside emergency troubleshooting and automotive mechanical repair work on stalled vehicles; tow or transport vehicle to designated repair facility; maintain assigned tow equipment; and perform a variety of other related duties in support of the Solid Waste Vehicle Maintenance Department.

This is a safety sensitive position subject to random drug/alcohol testing.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

Essential and Supplemental Functions

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions may include but are not limited to the functions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.

• Tow large commercial vehicles from failure related issues and accidents; coordinate recovery efforts with external agencies and other departments; coordinate with Solid waste Management safety coordinators in order to expedite recovery efforts safely and efficiently.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections, of tow recovery units and vehicles being towed for safety; perform minor repair as needed.
• Assess repairs needed and relay information to the vehicle maintenance shop in order to expedite the repair process; may include hauling vehicle to land-fill and repairing and/or making adjustments to hydraulic system allowing unit to be dumped and towed back to yard, in order to minimizing equipment downtime.
• Confer with supervisor regarding basic vehicle operational decisions; analyze related vehicle issues and make appropriate recommendations and/or decisions.
• Assist in the maintenance and repair of Heavy Duty Commercial and Residential trash collection vehicles.
• Ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures.
• Submit periodic work activity and equipment status reports to higher-level supervisory personnel as required.
• Operate a variety of heavy equipment and machinery, hydraulic-lift systems; transport refuse via a tractor trailer.
• Assist and train lower skilled and licensed mechanics in all truck recovery efforts.

• May function as a mechanic, diagnosing engines, air-brake systems, and electrical problems as needed.
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Minimum Education, Experience And Additional Requirements

Education and experience directly related to the minimum requirements below may be interchangeable on a year for year basis.

High school diploma or GED; and
Four (4) years of tow recovery experience; and
Two (2) years mechanical/hydraulic and air brake system maintenance and repair experience.

Course work in automotive technology, transportation technology or truck driving preferred.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a valid New Mexico Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class A.
Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.
Trainees must successfully complete OJT instruction for proper use of automated side loaders, commercial front loaders and rear packer systems.

Working Conditions

Environmental:
Field and landfill environment; travel from site to site; work around heavy equipment; work along side highways and roadsides; exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, potentially hazardous chemicals, waste and infectious materials; inclement weather conditions.

Physical:
Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for moderate to heavy lifting; walking, standing and sitting for prolonged periods; operating motorized equipment and vehicles.