Equipment Operator

Job Title: Equipment Operator (Skid Steer & Mini Excavator)

Location: Transylvania County, NC

Reports to: Superintendent

Compensation Range: $22 - $29 per hour (depending on location, experience, skills, and qualifications)

Other Compensation: Lodging and per diem provided when traveling

Benefits: Comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off and travel opportunities

About Ceres Environmental Operations

Ceres Environmental Operations (CEO) is a leader in crisis management, rapid response, and disaster recovery, committed to rebuilding stronger, safer communities. We specialize in emergency response, environmental services, planning, and consulting, including debris removal, blue roofs, logistics, debris management, demolition, recycling, forest management, and coastal and marine restoration. As a licensed general contractor, we offer unparalleled expertise to restore stability where it’s needed most.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People

At CEO, we believe you’re more than just an employee; you’re part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. Every team member plays a vital role in restoring hope, helping communities recover and rebuild.

We value initiative, respect diversity, and give our people the freedom to lead. We offer competitive pay, travel opportunities, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork. If you show up with compassion, share the commitment, react with urgency, and deliver solutions, you’ll fit right in. We don’t just respond to challenges; we rise to them.

What We Are Looking For

The Equipment Operator (Skid Steer & Mini Excavator) is responsible for safely operating and maintaining equipment to support debris removal, site preparation, and disaster recovery operations. This role is part of field operations and works closely with supervisors and crew members to execute projects efficiently and safely.

This position does not directly manage staff but plays a critical role in ensuring productivity and safety onsite.

What You Will Do

• Operate skid steer and mini excavator equipment to support debris removal, land clearing, and site preparation activities.
• Perform routine inspections and basic maintenance checks on equipment before and after use.
• Follow all safety protocols and ensure proper operation of machinery in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
• Coordinate with supervisors and team members to complete assigned tasks efficiently and safely.
• Load, move, and stage materials as required to support site operations.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas to ensure safe and efficient job sites.
• Monitor site conditions and adjust equipment operation techniques accordingly.
• Be willing to operate other types of equipment when needed.
• Be willing to perform duties outside of equipment operation as needed, including general labor tasks.
• Assist with mobilization, demobilization, and transportation of equipment to and from job sites.

Required Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience operating skid steer and/or mini excavator equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work in physically demanding outdoor environments.
• Strong understanding of job site safety practices and procedures.
• Ability to travel and work flexible hours, including extended shifts during disaster response operations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in debris management, disaster recovery, or construction environments.
• OSHA 10 or other safety certifications.
• Experience operating additional heavy equipment (e.g., loaders, excavators, grinders).
• Familiarity with basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.

What to Expect

In this role, you will work primarily outdoors in active project sites that may include disaster recovery zones, construction areas, or debris management locations. Work conditions can be physically demanding and may involve exposure to varying weather, uneven terrain, and loud environments.

You will be expected to operate equipment for extended periods while maintaining a strong focus on safety and productivity. Travel may be required depending on project assignments, with lodging and per diem provided. Schedules can vary and may include long hours, weekends, or emergency response deployments. Teamwork, flexibility, and a strong work ethic are essential to succeed in this role.

Physical Requirements and Environment

Ceres provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants with sincerely held religious beliefs, as required by law. The physical requirements listed below reflect the essential functions of this role. If you need accommodation to perform these functions, please inform us during the application process.

• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Specific vision abilities to include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and peripheral vision.
• Willing to wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) including hard hat, hearing protection, gloves, protective eyewear, and steel-toed boots.
• Ability to work in adverse weather conditions, uneven terrain, and around heavy machinery.
• Ability to sit, stand, and operate equipment for extended periods.
• Commitment to following safety standards and protocols.

Why Join CEO?

At CEO, you won’t just have a job, you’ll have a mission. Your work will directly impact the speed and strength of community recovery after disasters.

We offer:

• A collaborative, mission-driven culture
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
• The chance to make a lasting difference for communities across the U.S.

Ceres Environmental Operations is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Ceres does not sponsor employment‑based visas for this position unless stated otherwise.

E-Verify

We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: High School Diploma
• Experience: 3-5 years of experience operating heavy equipment
• Commercial Driver License: Class A or B
• Valid Driver License

Preferred Qualifications:

• Equipment repair or maintenance certifications/licensing
• Equipment Operating licenses
• Qualified Applicator License (QAL)
• Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC)

 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Knowledge to operate and haul equipment in accordance with industry guidance and standards
• Knowledge and ability to repair, refurbish or fix heavy equipment
• Apply knowledge of new and emerging technologies and equipment to business operations
• Ability to receive direction or guidance
• Ability to work within a team
• Ability to communicate well with others
• Problem solving skills
• Recognition of safety hazards