Container Lift Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the greater New York, New Jersey and Connecticut markets with a rail-served landfill in Ohio!  IWS is committed to delivering high-quality waste, recycling and environmental services, while prioritizing the safety of our employees, customers and communities. We cater to a diverse range of industrial, medical and commercial/residential customers. 

Founded in 1998, IWS has grown over the years through acquisitions, many of which were family-owned businesses that remain a part of our team today. We’re proud to combine the resources of a large company with the values and care of a family-run business. 

We are seeking an experienced industrial painter with spray gun expertise to join our container maintenance team. This role is responsible for prepping, painting, and finishing roll-off containers, compactors, and other steel equipment using a spray booth system. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with industrial coatings, spray equipment, and shop safety practices. Candidates must also be able to wear and work with a respirator at all times while painting.

• Perform surface preparation including grinding, sanding, masking, and cleaning to ensure proper paint adhesion.
• Apply primer and finish coats to containers, compactors, and roll-off equipment using spray gun application.
• Operate and maintain the spray booth and related equipment in accordance with safety and quality standards.
• Mix and match paint colors and coatings to meet job specifications.
• Perform daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning and maintenance of the spray booth, filters, and paint equipment.
• Follow proper waste disposal and environmental procedures for paint, solvents, and chemicals.
• Inspect finished work to ensure coatings meet company quality standards for appearance and durability.
• Assist with shop organization, inventory of painting supplies, and reporting of material usage.
• Follow all company safety policies, including PPE use, ventilation requirements, and fire hazard precautions.

• 2+ years of experience with spray gun painting in an industrial, automotive, or equipment setting.
• Familiarity with industrial coatings, primers, and finishing techniques.
• Ability to read and follow work orders, safety procedures, and equipment manuals.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality finishes.
• Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a shop/booth environment.
• Ability to wear and properly use a respirator for extended periods of time.
• Willingness to cross-train and assist in other shop functions as needed.

Preferred Skills

• Experience painting large steel equipment such as containers, trailers, or heavy machinery.
• Knowledge of spray booth operations, airflow systems, and filter maintenance.
• Basic welding or fabrication experience a plus.

Work Environment

• This role is primarily performed in a spray booth and maintenance shop environment. The position requires standing, bending, and lifting throughout the shift and involves regular exposure to paint fumes, solvents, and noise. Proper PPE, including respirators, will be provided and must be worn at all times.

This job description is intended to be an accurate representation of the general functions of the job, rather than exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or experience. Other duties may be assigned, requested, or required. Aspects of the job may be altered without notice. 

Interstate Waste Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.  

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.