CDL Driver

CERES•Houston, TX

2d•$19 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

Ceres Environmental Operations is seeking a reliable, safety-conscious CDL Driver with hands-on grapple truck operating experience for full-time, local work in the Houston, Texas area. The role supports debris removal and environmental operations by collecting, loading, and transporting storm debris, tree limbs, vegetation, and other approved materials. This is a local position rather than a travel-based storm deployment role. The driver operates a grapple truck and its hydraulic equipment in residential areas, construction zones, and active job sites, while following safety procedures and coordinating with field supervisors and ground crews. Work is primarily in the field and may involve travel among multiple local job sites during a shift. The work is physically demanding, with extended periods of driving, frequent equipment operation, and exposure to outdoor conditions. Daily assignments and schedules may vary according to project needs, weather, and operational priorities.

Requirements

Valid CDL Class A or Class B license appropriate for the assigned vehicle.
Demonstrated hands-on experience operating a grapple truck, including safe and effective use of hydraulic grapple equipment.
Commercial driving experience with a strong emphasis on safe vehicle operation.
Acceptable driving record and ability to meet applicable company and DOT requirements.
Working knowledge of vehicle inspections, load handling, and safe operating procedures.
Ability to work independently and communicate effectively with supervisors and field personnel.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and active job-site environments.
Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to climb in and out of a commercial truck cab and access equipment for inspections.
Ability to sit, drive, and operate vehicle controls for extended periods.
Ability to safely operate grapple controls and monitor equipment movement.
Ability to work in outdoor conditions including heat, dust, noise, uneven terrain, and changing weather.
Willingness to wear required personal protective equipment, including hard hats, protective eyewear, steel-toed boots, and high-visibility gear.
Ability to follow safety procedures and remain aware of surrounding personnel and job-site hazards.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; employment eligibility verification is required at hire.

Nice To Haves

Experience in storm debris removal, vegetation collection, tree debris hauling, or municipal waste operations.
Experience operating grapple trucks in residential neighborhoods and other confined or congested areas.
Previous experience in construction, environmental services, disaster recovery, or public works.
Familiarity with hydraulic equipment inspections and basic troubleshooting.
Knowledge of DOT compliance and commercial vehicle safety requirements.

Responsibilities

Operate a grapple truck to collect, lift, load, and transport debris from designated collection areas and job sites.
Safely operate hydraulic grapple equipment around vehicles, structures, utilities, pedestrians, and ground personnel.
Drive assigned routes throughout the Houston area to support debris removal and environmental projects.
Transport collected debris to designated staging areas, transfer stations, or disposal facilities.
Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the truck, grapple assembly, hydraulic systems, and related equipment.
Follow applicable DOT regulations, company safety policies, and job-site procedures.
Complete required driver logs, load tickets, inspection reports, and other project documentation.
Communicate with supervisors and dispatch about route progress, equipment issues, safety concerns, and operational needs.
Monitor vehicle and grapple performance and promptly report maintenance or repair requirements.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe vehicle and work area.
Assist with related field operations as needed to support project completion.