HHW Technician

As an HHW Technician at Veolia North America, you will be primarily responsible for handling Household Hazardous Waste collection events. Key duties include unloading materials from vehicles, recognizing and addressing potentially hazardous situations, and accurately segregating chemicals according to DOT hazard classes. Following Health and Safety policies meticulously is vital to ensure a professional company image as you interact with customers.

To qualify for the HHW Technician position at Veolia North America, applicants must possess a high school diploma. While previous hazardous waste experience is preferred, it's essential for candidates to demonstrate strong teamwork skills and the ability to follow directions effectively in a dynamic environment. Additionally, a valid driver's license and a 40-hour HAZWOPER Certification are preferred qualifications.

Veolia North America emphasizes the importance of health and safety in its operations. HHW Technicians must consistently adhere to VESTS Health and Safety policies and procedures during hazardous waste handling. This includes recognizing dangerous situations and using personal protective equipment, ensuring a safe and compliant work environment for both employees and customers.

Working as an HHW Technician at Veolia North America comes with a comprehensive benefits package. This includes paid time off, health, dental, and vision insurance, plus participation in an employer-sponsored 401(k) plan to help you save for retirement. Additionally, Veolia is committed to ensuring all employees, including those represented by a union, receive fair compensation and benefits.

While prior experience in hazardous waste handling is preferred, it is not strictly necessary to apply for the HHW Technician position at Veolia North America. The company values strong team players who are willing to learn. On-the-job training and proper certification will equip candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in this role.

In your answer, highlight your passion for environmental management and sustainability. Discuss how the responsibilities of the HHW Technician align with your values and career goals, and mention specific aspects of Veolia North America’s mission that resonate with you.

Be prepared to share any previous relevant experience involving hazardous waste, even if it's brief. Emphasize your understanding of safety protocols, any training you've undergone, and your capacity to manage materials safely while maintaining compliance with regulations.

Emphasize your commitment to workplace safety by discussing your familiarity with health and safety regulations. Provide examples of how you’ve implemented these practices in previous roles and express your intention to follow Veolia’s policies diligently.

Choose a specific instance where you effectively collaborated with others. Highlight your contributions, emphasize teamwork, and speak to how mutual support was crucial in achieving a common goal, especially in high-pressure environments.

Discuss a structured approach that involves recognizing the spill, isolating the area, notifying supervisors, and employing emergency protocols while wearing PPE. This shows that you are prepared to handle emergencies calmly and effectively while adhering to safety guidelines.

Address your proactive approach in staying informed about compliance through training sessions, online resources, or workshops. This reflects your dedication to keeping your skills current and ensuring adherence to evolving safety standards.

Explain the importance of addressing safety concerns directly and professionally. Elaborate on your intention to approach the coworker respectfully or notify a supervisor if necessary, demonstrating your commitment to a safe workplace for all.

Share your adaptability and flexibility in handling changing job duties. Provide an example of how you successfully managed unexpected changes, illustrating your resilience and ability to maintain productivity under shifting circumstances.

Express your knowledge of DOT hazard classes by explaining how materials are categorized based on their risk levels. Share any relevant experience you have with segregating or managing these materials, emphasizing your attention to detail and safety awareness.

Highlight the importance of professional customer interaction in fostering trust and ensuring safe waste handling. Discuss how positive communication can enhance the company's image and lead to effective collaboration with clients.