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- Tasks: Help manage recycling centres, assist customers, and ensure waste is disposed of correctly.
- Company: Join a dedicated team within the Council's Waste and Cleansing Services department.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and gain valuable experience in environmental services.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on the environment while developing customer service skills.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths preferred; experience in outdoor manual work is essential.
- Other info: Must be available to work at various sites and outside normal hours.
The predicted salary is between 21500 - 25000 £ per year.
The post holder will be primarily based at one of the Council's 9 Household Recycling Centres (HRCs) but may be required to work at any of the other HRCs on occasion to meet the needs of the service. The post holder will be responsible to the HRC Supervisor for the day-to-day operation of the Council's HRCs.
To undertake all duties associated with the operation of the Household Recycling Centre/Amenity Site to ensure that all domestic and commercial waste is disposed of in accordance with the Council's policy for recycling whilst providing the highest level of customer care at all times. The Household Recycling Centres are licensed Waste Management facilities and must operate in accordance with licensing conditions stipulated by DAERA (NIEA) including being manned at all times whilst open. The post holder will be required to work unsupervised and must demonstrate good customer care with site users. The postholder is required as key-holder to open and close the site.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
- To open, close, secure, work in and control access to the Household Recycling Centres at appropriate times as instructed by the Supervisor/Manager.
- To ensure that the site (including staff buildings) is kept clean and tidy and that all waste is stored in an appropriate manner. Ensuring sufficient stock of cleaning materials and equipment are on site, by reporting to Supervisor.
- To use plant and equipment including but not limited to the compactor, woodroller, cardboard bailer which are provided at the site to control, process or handle waste. This includes general maintenance of equipment (for example Health and safety inspections and reporting of defects) and ensuring supplies for equipment are available, by reporting to Supervisor.
- To ensure all buildings within the site and the perimeter of the site, including associated footpaths are kept clean and tidy, and partake in all cleansing schedules for the site.
- To ensure all relevant data (both digital and non-digital) is captured and stored in line with Council policies in either paper or digital form eg on an electronic device such as a hand held or desk based computer/Mobile/Tablet, site licence and Council procedures.
- To advise, assist and direct members of the public where and how to segregate and deposit waste including hazardous material for example oils, batteries, paints and fluorescent tubes in compliance with the site rules.
- To ensure the segregation of waste including defined hazardous waste is properly handled and stored. Ensuring that only appropriate waste is accepted at the site in accordance with its Waste Management License and Operational plan.
- To control the flow of traffic within the site particularly at times of high usage. Ensuring one way systems are adhered to, where applicable, to minimise the risk of vehicle (both Council and approved private contractor) accidents and for injuries to pedestrians on site. To assist drivers of collection vehicles while on site and ensure that the site users are kept at a safe distance by erection of temporary barriers.
- To ensure that the filling and emptying of containers is managed efficiently at all times and especially at busy times to prevent site closure by contacting contractors'/ council collection by using communication equipment.
- To record the tonnages of the various types of waste removed from the site (where appropriate).
- To ensure that work activities at the site are carried out in compliance with health and safety legislation, the Council's EMS (ISO 14001), Safe Systems of Work and site licensing conditions.
- To liaise with external bodies during site inspections.
- As the Recycling Centres also serve as Designated Collection Facilities (DCF's) for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), ensure redundant electrical items are separated.
- To distribute salt and/or grit within the site and around the entrance and exit during periods of frost, ice or snow.
- To immediately report and record any accidents, incidents, near misses, complaints, comments, breakdowns, non-permitted waste or damage at the site to the Supervisor. Maintaining site diary in accordance with Waste Management Licensing requirements.
- To ensure that unauthorised persons are not on-site, policing illegal use of HRCs by commercial users. To ensure that commercial users present the appropriate paperwork in accordance with legislation.
- To undertake the duties in such a way as to enhance and protect the reputation and public profile of the Council.
- To comply with and ensure the site users comply with and promote equality, health and safety in accordance with Council Policies and legal requirement.
- To assist with projects/initiatives from time to time in line with Recycling/Reuse promotions including surveys and competitions.
- To undertake any other appropriate duties as may be allocated from time to time in accordance with the general nature of the post.
Person Specification:
The person specification provides information on the qualifications, experience, knowledge and skills required to carry out the duties of the post. The essential criteria will be used for shortlisting and as part of the selection process.
Qualifications:
- Desirable: A relevant qualification in waste management
- GCSE in English and Mathematics (Grade C or above) or equivalent
- A Health and Safety-related qualification
Experience:
- Essential: At least one year's experience in paid employment of outdoor manual work in all weather conditions
- At least one year's experience in paid employment of dealing with contractors and/or customers
- Experience in the use of Microsoft Office packages
- Experience in the operation of electronic devices such as mobile phones or tablets
- One year's experience of operating electrical/mechanical equipment or plant in a work environment
- Desirable: At least two years' experience in paid employment of outdoor manual work in all weather conditions
- At least two years' experience in paid employment of dealing with contractors and/or customers
- Experience working within a waste and/or recycling environment
- Experience of completing record sheets and recording incidents in the workplace
- Experience of keeping computerised records
- Experience of Health and Safety practices associated with carrying out waste disposal and recycling activities
Key Skills & Abilities:
- Essential: Good communication skills
- Understanding and appreciation of the needs of customers
- Ability to work well within a team
- Ability to work on own initiative
Other Requirements:
- Essential: Applicants must be available to work outside normal working hours or to work at other sites within the Borough if required
- Appointment will be subject to satisfactory completion of a medical questionnaire, including a pre-employment Drugs and Alcohol Screening.
Recycling Attendant employer: Ards and North Down Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Ards and North Down Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Recycling Attendant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific recycling policies and procedures of the Council. Understanding the local regulations and guidelines will not only help you in the role but also show your commitment to the job during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain some hands-on experience with waste management or recycling operations, even if it's voluntary. This practical knowledge can be a great talking point in interviews and demonstrates your genuine interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your customer service skills. As a Recycling Attendant, you'll be interacting with the public regularly, so being able to communicate effectively and assist site users will be crucial.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the waste management sector. Attend local community events or workshops related to recycling to meet people who might provide insights or even referrals for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Recycling Attendant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in outdoor manual work and customer service. Emphasise any experience you have with waste management or recycling, as well as your ability to operate electronic devices.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role of Recycling Attendant. Mention specific skills that align with the job description, such as good communication skills and the ability to work independently. Share examples of how you've successfully dealt with customers or managed tasks in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have any qualifications related to waste management or health and safety, be sure to mention them in your application. Even if they are not essential, they can set you apart from other candidates.
Showcase Your Experience: Detail your experience in outdoor manual work and dealing with contractors or customers. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to handle various situations, particularly in challenging weather conditions or busy environments.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ards and North Down Borough Council
✨Know Your Waste Management Basics
Familiarise yourself with the key principles of waste management and recycling. Understand the types of waste accepted at the Household Recycling Centres and the importance of proper segregation. This knowledge will show your commitment to the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Demonstrate Customer Care Skills
Since the role involves direct interaction with the public, be prepared to discuss your experience in customer service. Share examples of how you've assisted customers in the past, especially in challenging situations, to highlight your communication skills and ability to handle inquiries effectively.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork and Initiative
The job requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles, as well as instances where you've taken the initiative to solve problems or improve processes on your own.
✨Prepare for Health and Safety Questions
Health and safety is a critical aspect of this role. Brush up on relevant health and safety regulations related to waste management. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance with these regulations and maintain a safe working environment for yourself and site users.