Semi Skilled Laborer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $17.34 - $19.89 Hourly
Location : Houston
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 39499
Department: Houston Public Works
Division: Solid Waste
Opening Date: 09/04/2026
Closing Date: 9/13/2026 11:59 PM Central
POSITION OVERVIEW
APPLICATION ACCEPTED FROM: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
DIVISION/ SECTION: SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT/RECYCLING CENTERS -1506 Central
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
Solid Waste Management (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.
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
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.).
**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.**
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:
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: or call (832-393-6032).
If you need special services or accommodations, call (832-393-6032). (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 EmployerThe 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
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

03
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

04
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.

05
Do you have experience operating a forklift?

• Yes
• No

06
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.

07
Are you a current City of Houston- Solid Waste Management employee?

• YES
• NO

Required Question