About Company:
About Denali
Denali is the leading organic recycling company on a mission to unlock the power of unused food and organics, transforming them into resources to feed, fuel and replenish the earth. Our work is essential to keeping water clean, reducing the need for new landfill capacity, building soil fertility, helping farmers be more resilient, and reducing society's reliance on fossil fuels. Denali provides meaningful and measurable change for any business that handles food, creating value with our scalable solutions across the nation. Our services and products touch thousands of acres and businesses, millions of tons of organic material, and nearly every person who purchases and consumes food in the U.S.
Apply to join our team today!
Loader Operator
Glendale, AZ
Full-time / Hourly
Compensation & Perks
$1000 Annual Retention Bonus | Competitive Weekly Pay
PEAKS Safety Program:
Quarterly regional raffle:
$1,000 prize/region
Annual regional raffle:
$5,000 prizes (4 winners)
Annual Apex winner:
$10,000 prize
Position Summary
The Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of wastewater, septic, and used cooking oil (UCO) processing systems. This role supports daily facility operations, including receiving, processing, separation, and transfer of materials while maintaining compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards.
The ideal candidate has a strong mechanical aptitude, enjoys hands-on industrial work, and takes ownership of the operation by monitoring equipment performance, identifying issues before they become problems, and maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate facility processing equipment, including pumps, valves, DAF systems, shaker screens, trommel screening equipment, screw press, and transfer systems.
- Receive and safely offload incoming septic, grease trap, and UCO loads following established procedures.
- Monitor tank levels, flow rates, and treatment system performance to maximize throughput while preventing downtime or overflows.
- Adjust chemical dosing systems (lime, coagulant, polymer, and other treatment chemicals) to support proper wastewater treatment and separation.
- Manage sludge, fats, oils, grease (FOG), and solids handling, including transfer to designated storage or disposal areas.
- Perform routine inspections of pumps, piping, hoses, valves, tanks, and processing equipment to ensure reliable operation.
- Operate forklifts to unload pallets, move treatment chemicals, and stage materials.
- Operate skid steers, compact loaders, and front-end loaders for general material handling.
- Assist with tanker offloading and product transfer operations.
- Operate truck scales and the EveryWeigh scale system.
- Cross-train on UCO processing equipment, including centrifuge/tri-canter and boiler systems, as needed.
- Maintain clean, organized work areas following 5S housekeeping standards.
- Complete daily operational logs, production reports, scale tickets, and equipment inspections.
- Communicate equipment failures, maintenance needs, spills, and safety concerns immediately.
- Receive and inspect incoming tanker loads.
- May be required to obtain and maintain an Arizona Weighmaster License to weigh inbound and outbound vehicles.
Equipment & Systems Operated
Operators will be expected to operate or receive training on:
- Forklifts for unloading pallets, moving treatment chemicals, and staging materials
- Skid steers and front-end loaders for general material handling
- Wastewater transfer pumps, hoses, valves, piping, and tank systems
- Shaker screens and trommel screening equipment
- Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) treatment systems
- Screw press and sludge dewatering equipment
- Chemical dosing systems for lime, polymer, coagulants, and other treatment chemicals
- Tanker offloading and liquid transfer systems
- Truck scales and EveryWeigh scale system
- UCO processing equipment, including centrifuge/tri-canter and boiler systems (cross-training provided)
Direct experience with every system is not required. Candidates with strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to quickly learn industrial processes are encouraged to apply.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and environmental regulations.
- Ensure proper handling and containment of wastewater, sludge, grease, and other waste streams.
- Identify and immediately report spills, equipment failures, near misses, or unsafe conditions.
- Support compliance with facility operating procedures, discharge permits, and environmental requirements.
- Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company safety policies.
Qualifications
Preferred Experience
- Forklift operation
- Skid steer or compact loader operation
- Tanker loading, unloading, pump, hose, and liquid transfer operations
- Industrial processing or material handling equipment
- Wastewater, sludge, grease trap, FOG, or organic waste handling
- Mechanical troubleshooting and minor equipment repairs
Preferred Industry Background
Experience in one or more of the following industries is highly preferred:
- Industrial or municipal wastewater treatment
- Septic or grease trap services
- Food or beverage manufacturing
- Used cooking oil (UCO), rendering, or recycling operations
- Industrial manufacturing
- Chemical processing
- Composting or landfill operations
- Tanker transportation or liquid material handling
A hands-on industrial background is strongly preferred. Candidates should be comfortable working around wastewater, treatment chemicals, outdoor conditions, odors, and physically demanding operations.
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
Candidates with experience in any of the following are highly desirable:
- Operating DAF systems, screw presses, centrifuges, or similar separation equipment
- Knowledge of pumps, valves, piping, hoses, and tank systems
- Adjusting chemical dosing based on treatment performance
- Wastewater sampling, pH testing, and operational recordkeeping
- Mechanical troubleshooting and preventative maintenance
- Receiving and inspecting tanker loads
- Forklift certification or documented industrial equipment experience
- Strong housekeeping and 5S practices
- Ability to work independently and proactively identify operational issues before downtime occurs
- Strong communication skills with the ability to report operational concerns promptly
Schedule
- Facility operates primarily Monday through Friday.
- Typical shift start times are approximately 2:00 AM or 6:00 AM, depending on operational needs.
- Candidates should be available for occasional overtime, schedule adjustments, limited Saturday work, and emergency coverage when required.
Work Environment
This position works in an industrial processing facility handling wastewater, septic, grease trap waste, and used cooking oil (UCO). Employees should be comfortable working around odors, treatment chemicals, outdoor weather conditions, wet environments, and industrial processing equipment.
The work is physically demanding and may require standing for extended periods, lifting, climbing, and working in a fast-paced operational environment.
What We're Looking For
The strongest candidates demonstrate ownership of the operation-not just the ability to operate equipment. We are looking for someone who will proactively monitor tank levels and treatment performance, maintain production throughput, identify issues before they cause downtime or overflows, keep the facility clean and organized, and communicate effectively with leadership to ensure safe and efficient operations.
What we offer:
- Mission-driven work in a rapidly growing sustainability company
- Opportunities for professional growth and learning
- Collaborative, values-driven team culture
- Competitive salary and benefits
Why You'll Love Working at Denali- Benefits & Perks
At Denali, the work we do begins and ends with
you - our employees. That's why we strive to
ELEVATE you to be your best, both at work and at home. Our benefits aren't just about compensation; they're part of a broader commitment to helping you thrive in all aspects of life. Here's how we live out our values every day:
- E - Employee: At Denali, we believe in offering competitive compensation packages that include not only great benefits but also a strong focus on safety, flexibility, and rewards and recognition. You are the backbone of our success, and we make sure you're valued every step of the way.
- L - Learning: We're committed to your growth and development. Our Ascend Employee Development Program and access to over 6,000 professional courses via our Learning Management System empower you to climb higher in your career - all at no cost to you.
- E - Environment: Our employees deserve a clean Earth. We're dedicated to doing our part in keeping waste out of landfills, so you can be proud of the work we do together to make a positive environmental impact.
- V - Valued: At Denali, we take pride in creating a culture of care. With resources that support your well-being, volunteerism opportunities, and a commitment to safe working conditions and inclusivity, you'll always feel like you belong here.
- A - Advancement: We believe in succession planning and providing opportunities for advancement. We want you to grow, and we'll be right there with you, supporting your career every step of the way.
- T - Together: We're stronger when we work together. At Denali, you'll have opportunities to give and receive support not just within the workplace, but within our broader community. Our team is united, and we celebrate the value of working and succeeding as one.
- E - Employees: You are the heart of Denali. We believe our employees deserve the very best. This is why we offer an array of benefits that support your overall well-being, from health coverage to work-life balance, because when you succeed, we all succeed.
Our Benefits Package Includes:
- Comprehensive Medical: Our self-insured medical plans are designed with your health in mind, offering competitive options including copay and HSA plans so you can choose what best suit your health needs.
- Dental & Vision: Keep your smile bright and your vision clear with full coverage for you and your family.
- Generous 401(k) Match: We're here for your long-term future - we offer a generous 401(k) match of up to 4%, helping you build the foundation for tomorrow.
- Company-Paid Disability & Life Insurance: We've got you covered with company-paid Long-Term and Short-Term Disability, as well as AD&D and Life Insurance, giving you peace of mind knowing you're protected.
- Voluntary Life for Employees & Family: Customize additional coverage for you and your loved ones with our voluntary life insurance options.
- Health Savings Plan: Save on medical expenses with a Health Savings Plan designed for your needs.
- Paid Time Off (PTO) & Sick Time: We value your well-being. Take time for yourself, your family, and personal matters with generous PTO and Sick Time, including family leave.
- 9 Paid Holidays: Enjoy a well-rounded work-life balance with 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
- Paid Weekly: We believe in rewarding hard work consistently, which is why we offer weekly pay so you can stay on top of your financial goals.
- Professional Development: Ascend in your career with free access to thousands of courses that allow you to grow and develop professionally.
- Employee Assistance Program: Life can be challenging at times, and we're here to support you with our confidential Employee Assistance Program that offers counseling and resources for a variety of personal and professional needs.
- Wellness Program: At Denali, we believe that well-being goes beyond health coverage. Our Wellness Program offers resources to keep you mentally, physically, and emotionally balanced as you climb higher in both life and career.
We want you to feel valued, supported, and equipped for success - because when you thrive, we all thrive. So, come for benefits. Stay for the culture. We can't wait to see you reach new heights with us at Denali.
Apply to join our team today!
Equal Employment Opportunity Policy: It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities for all employees. Accordingly, the Company will not engage in any form of employment discrimination based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. The Company hereby affirms its desire to maintain a work environment for all employees that is free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination.
