Job Information
The City of Houston SEMI-SKILLED LABORER in Houston, Texas
SEMI-SKILLED LABORER
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SEMI-SKILLED LABORER
Salary
$17.34 - $19.85 Hourly
Location
Various
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
38617
Department
Solid Waste Management
Opening Date
04/13/2026
Closing Date
4/20/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
Benefits
Questions
POSITION OVERVIEW
APPLICATION ACCEPTED FROM: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
DIVISION/ SECTION: RECYCLING CENTERS - VARIOUS
WORKDAYS & HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY 8:00 am - 5:00 pm* - occasional weekend and disaster recovery (1 DAY OFF) subject to change*
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES / ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
The Solid Waste Management Department (SWM) is seeking a Semi-Skilled Laborer who uses knowledge and problem-solving techniques to provide general information and customer assistance to internal and external customers.
Provide courteous customer service to residents and others, while unloading recyclable materials from vehicles. Communicate effectively with customers concerning the proper procedures for bringing recyclables to the facility. Drive a box truck to deliver materials locally. Be able to operate a forklift and assist in keeping the warehouse clean and organized, as well as maintaining the facility grounds.
The Semi-skilled laborer may perform a series of limited maintenance and repairs. Operates hand and power tools and equipment. Monitors inventory control. Process materials according to supervisor’s instructions. Performs tasks such as weighing material, pulling materials, stacking, and baling cardboard. Reads and monitors gauges. Performs other duties as assigned. (MUST PROVIDE OWN SAFETY SHOES).
WORKING CONDITIONS
Routine exposures to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture and air pollution. The position may involve exposure to Household Hazardous Waste chemical substances and physical trauma of a minor nature such as cuts, bruises and minor burns. This position involves considerable physical exertion, lifting heavy objects (up to 80 pounds) on a highly frequent basis and/or assuming awkward positions for long periods of time.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to read, write, add, subtract and follow oral and/or basic written instructions as might normally be acquired through 9 to 11 years of formal schooling.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Six months of related experience are required.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
A valid Driver's License in compliance with the City of Houston's policy on driving (AP 2-2).
PREFERENCES
Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.
Candidates with a custodial background are preferred. Candidates who can operate commercial cleaning equipment, two-way radios and commercial products are a plus (Burnisher, Mops, Floor Buffer, etc.).
GENERAL INFORMATION
SELECTION / SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED
The selection process will involve application review and/or interview. Department may administer skills assessment test.
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION - YES
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
PAY GRADE 6
SALARY INFORMATION
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during active posting period. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call (832-393-0241).
If you need special services or accommodations, call ( 832-393-0241 ). (TTY 7-1-1 )
If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.
EOE Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:
Medical
Dental
Vision
Wellness
Supplemental Insurance
Life insurance
Long-term disability
Retirement pension
457 deferred compensation plan
Employee Assistance Program
10 days of vacation each year
13 city holidays, plus one floating holiday
Compensable Sick Leave
Personal Leave
Flexible schedules
Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions
Professional development opportunities
Transportation/parking plan
Section 125 pretax deductions
Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves
Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
For plan details, visit http://www.houstontx.gov/hr/benefits.html
01
Are you a veteran who served on active duty in the Armed Forces (United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard) for more than 90 consecutive days and received either an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions?
YES
NO
02
Are you a current City of Houston- Solid Waste Management employee?
YES
NO
03
What is the highest level of education you have completed?
Less than 9th grade
9th grade to less than high school.
High School Diploma/GED and beyond
04
How many verifiable years of experience do you possess as it relates to this position?
LESS than 6 months of work experience
6 months or More of related experience
05
Do you possess a valid Driver's License in compliance with the City of Houston's policy on driving (AP 2-2)?
YES
NO
My license is presently restricted, suspended or revoked.
06
Do you have experience operating a forklift?
Yes
No
07
Which of the following functions have you performed in either your present and/or past work experience? (please select only what you have "verifiable" work history with).
Experience operating hand tool equipment.
Experience with basic maintenance and repairs within mid to large commercial structures.
Experience with commercial housekeeping.
Experience with operating commercial burnisher or floor buffer equipment.
Experience cleaning large square footage using (commercial mops, cleaners and chemicals).
I have no experience.
Required Question