CDL Driver Trainee / Operator

CERES • Houston, TX

3d • $22 - $30 • Onsite

About The Position

Ceres Environmental is seeking a dependable, safety-conscious CDL Driver Trainee / Equipment Operator for a full-time, field-based position headquartered in Houston, Texas. The role supports fleet and field operations by transporting materials, assisting with debris removal, and developing proficiency in commercial vehicles and specialized hauling equipment. Employees receive hands-on, on-the-job training and may work with grapple trucks, side dump trailers, end dump trailers, walking floor trailers, and other equipment as project needs require. Employees with a Class B CDL or applicable restrictions may have opportunities for company-supported training toward a Class A CDL and/or removal of restrictions.

Employees report to the Houston location daily, may be assigned to local projects, and must be willing to travel temporarily to other markets across the country for storm response and disaster recovery operations. Schedules, hours, and assignments may vary with project demands, weather, and emergency response needs. The work involves extended periods of driving, frequent inspections, and working outdoors around heavy equipment and active job sites in conditions such as heat, dust, noise, wet weather, and uneven terrain. The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

The role is intended for entry-level or intermediate CDL drivers who want to build commercial driving and equipment-operation skills. Employees begin by assisting experienced drivers and progress to increased driving responsibilities as their proficiency and qualifications develop. Ceres describes opportunities for professional growth and advancement within its fleet and field operations. Compensation is $22–$30 per hour, depending on location, experience, skills, and qualifications. Benefits include medical coverage, a 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and other eligible benefits.

Requirements

• Possess a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class A or Class B.
• Demonstrate safe driving habits and the ability to follow established vehicle operating procedures and safety requirements.
• Meet applicable company, DOT, and project-specific requirements for assigned driving and equipment-operation duties.
• Demonstrate dependability, a strong work ethic, and willingness to learn from experienced operators and supervisors.
• Be willing to complete additional training to obtain a Class A CDL and/or remove applicable CDL restrictions, including manual transmission restrictions, as needed for the role.
• Be willing to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and travel temporarily to other markets as required.
• Ability to climb in and out of commercial truck cabs and safely access vehicles and equipment for inspections.
• Ability to sit, drive, and operate vehicle controls for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation, when required by assigned duties.
• Ability to work safely around moving vehicles, heavy equipment, and active job sites.
• Willingness to wear required personal protective equipment, including hard hats, protective eyewear, steel-toed boots, and high-visibility clothing.
• Commitment to following company safety standards, equipment operating procedures, and applicable DOT requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in commercial driving, transportation, hauling, or related field operations.
• Familiarity with grapple trucks, side dump trailers, end dump trailers, walking floor trailers, or other specialized hauling equipment.
• Previous experience in construction, storm debris removal, environmental services, waste management, or disaster recovery.
• Knowledge of commercial vehicle inspections, load handling, load securement, and DOT compliance.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate assigned commercial vehicles and specialized hauling equipment for transportation, debris removal, and disaster recovery projects.
• Participate in hands-on training to develop proficiency with grapple trucks, side dump trailers, end dump trailers, walking floor trailers, and other specialized hauling equipment.
• Transport, collect, load, and unload storm debris, vegetation, and other approved materials at project sites, staging areas, and disposal facilities.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vehicles, trailers, and equipment; promptly report maintenance needs and safety concerns.
• Follow applicable DOT regulations, company safety policies, job-site procedures, and equipment operating requirements.
• Complete driver logs, inspection reports, load tickets, and other project documentation accurately and on time.
• Coordinate assignments and operational needs with field supervisors, project managers, dispatch, and ground crews.
• Work toward obtaining additional CDL qualifications or removing applicable restrictions when required and supported by the company.
• Report to the Houston location daily and travel to other markets as needed for storm response, emergency operations, and disaster recovery projects.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe vehicle and work environment, and perform other field duties as needed to support project completion.
• Assist experienced drivers and learn transportation, hauling, and storm response operations through on-the-job training.
• Progress into greater driving responsibilities as proficiency and qualifications develop.

Benefits

• Medical coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Other eligible benefits
• Competitive hourly compensation
• Hands-on training with specialized commercial vehicles and hauling equipment
• Opportunities to develop additional CDL qualifications and expand professional skills
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
• Travel opportunities supporting disaster recovery and emergency response projects

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed