Hot Tip -- by Susan Gillespie

We live in a disposable society -- get rid of it and buy something new. If you are the type who believes people throw out stuff that could be reused, you are right. But where does this lead for job opportunities?

For the most part, household, hazardous and biological waste positions require technical and scientific backgrounds -- engineering or something similar unless you are on the business side of the organization. Those positions include administration, marketing and sales. Even in these positions, technical knowledge of the issues and sciences are often required to promote and sell company services.

In domestic waste handling, entry level jobs would including positions as a sorter at the recycling depots around Calgary picking and sorting all the different bottles, plastics and box containers. There are also private companies that collect recyclables from residential and commercial operators that need drivers, sorters and shredders (for office papers). You don't need to be knowledgeable about recycling for these kinds of jobs, just enjoy working with people and willing to learn. You will gain the knowledge about waste handling and recycling on the job. A clean driving record would be a big asset for the driving positions.

For positions as garbage truck drivers with the City of Calgary, a Class 3 driver's licence with an air brake endorsement and less than six demerits is required. The best way to get your foot in the door for these positions is to be hired for the summer months. The City hires for these summer / seasonal positions at job fairs held throughout Calgary, usually in February or March.

There are also private waste management companies which hire truck drivers and for other positions -- everything from selling recycled pop and paper to office clerks. The best way to approach these companies is through direct calls, or through informational interviews. Feedback from private sector waste companies interviewed for this month's edition stated that positions in waste management are generally not advertised. This means you need to be creative in your job search, and not afraid to call companies and ask if they are hiring.

In the field of hazardous waste, oil and gas companies would be just one avenue to consider for job opportunities. Don't expect much beyond a labour position without a university or technical education, or a Class 1 driver's licence. There are courses offered to prepare people for working in transportation of hazardous goods in the oil and gas industry. Check out www.pits.ca and look at its courses and products listings.

(Susan Gillespie is a career counsellor at the Calgary Youth Employment Centre.)