Job Description:
Packer Operator
Competition Number: 26/122
Posting Scope: Internal / External
Posted Date: June 18, 2026
Closing Date: June 25, 2026, 4:30 PM PST
Department: Engineering & Public Works
Work schedule: Shifts may vary (40 hour work week) - Continuous (Regular Full-Time)
Salary: $34.89 per hour, Pay Grade 5
Job Code: 534
Employee Group: This is a CUPE Local 50 position
Number of Vacancies: 1
The City of Victoria is hiring a Packer Operator to support safe and efficient residential waste collection across the community. In this hands on role, you’ll operate a single and/or tandem axle refuse packer (including rear loading refuse and organics trucks), complete daily vehicle inspections, and work closely with your crew along busy routes - using hydraulic lifts and hopper systems, managing frequent stops, and helping keep collection areas clean and orderly.
This is outdoor, physically demanding work with regular driving and exposure to noise, odours, dust, and other waste materials - ideal for someone who takes pride in doing the job right, stays calm in traffic and tight spaces, and provides courteous service to the public. We’re looking for a safety focused operator who is comfortable working outdoors in all conditions and navigating dynamic work environments. If you hold a Class 3 BC Driver’s Licence with air brake endorsement and enjoy practical, team based work that makes a visible difference every day, we’d love to hear from you.
POSITION FUNCTION
The Packer Operator is responsible for the efficient collection of waste materials while adhering to schedules, procedures, performance and safety standards. This role involves safely operating a single and/or tandem axle refuse packer along designated routes, including a tandem axle rear loading refuse and organics truck, and performing manual tasks in the collection of residential refuse.
KEY DUTIES
-
Perform daily pre-trip and post-trip equipment inspections, including checking fluid levels, belts, hoses, lights and other items in accordance with standard job procedures.
-
Relay job assignment information from supervisor to crew.
- Transport crew and equipment to work sites.
- Make frequent stops for the crew to load and empty refuse into garbage trailer as required.
- Remove and dispose refuse from residents, collect and account for “extra refuse” tickets and clean up fallen refuse when loading using shovels and brooms.
- Transfer refuse into truck hopper by operating hydraulic toter lift and/or hopper blade mechanism.
-
Perform residential bin maintenance, including replacing bars, latches and fixing handles when required.
-
Check and adjust air brake system, first aid and safety equipment.
-
Clean interior and exterior of vehicles and wash inside of packer body and buggies as required.
- Report any mechanical issues, required repairs, or damage concerning equipment to supervisor and mechanic shop
-
Record information on residences that differ from the register or contravene sanitation by-laws.
- Distribute annual collection calendars.
Perform related duties where qualified.
INDEPENDENCE
-
Work is performed according to assigned daily schedule and register.
-
Work is reviewed by Supervisor.
-
Problems such as unregistered residences are referred to supervisor.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical Effort:
-
Lift and move heavy equipment and materials. (continuous)
-
Walk on collection route. (frequent)
Mental Effort:
-
Short periods of intense concentration while manoeuvring a large vehicle and remaining aware of crew members in a constantly changing work zone. (frequent)
Visual/Auditory Effort:
Work Environment:
-
Work outside in all weather conditions. (frequent)
-
Work in close proximity to moving traffic. (frequent)
-
Exposure to equipment noise, unpleasant odours, dust, ashes, waste products and potentially hazardous materials. (continuous)
-
Exposure to vibration and heat from vehicle. (frequent)
- Handle complaints, negative feedback, and interactions with difficult individuals. (often)
-
Driving (frequent)
KEY SKILLS AND ABILITIES
-
Ability to work and operate equipment safely.
-
Ability to navigate refuse packers through high volume traffic and tight spaces.
- Ability to operate refuse packers in either right or left orientation.
-
Ability to operate hydraulic buggy lifters and hoppers for bin collection.
-
Ability to understand and carry out job related instructions.
-
Ability to use basic hand tools.
-
Ability to operate a tandem rear axle vehicle.
-
Ability to complete forms accurately.
-
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
-
Ability to communicate with the public in a courteous and tactful manner.
-
Ability to read and interpret geographical maps
QUALIFICATIONS
Formal Education, Training and Occupational Certification:
-
Grade 10.
-
Current and valid Class 3 B.C. Driver's Licence with air brake endorsement.
Experience:
-
2 years of related experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
OTHER:
May be requested to substitute in a more senior position.
To apply for this opportunity, you will need to create an online profile or log back into our career portal at www.victoria.ca/jobs - only online submissions will be considered. All applications must be submitted online by 4:30 pm on the closing date noted on the posting. Please be prepared to provide proof of qualifications as outlined in your resume.
The City of Victoria is committed to integrating equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility into our programs, policies, spaces, and services. Our goal is to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the community we serve and aim to become. Individuals who are Indigenous, racialized, immigrants, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+, or facing any additional barriers are encouraged to apply. Accommodations will be available upon request throughout the application and selection process.
