Equipment Operator

CERES ENVIRONMENTAL INC • Waynesville, NC

4d • Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of experience operating excavators in forestry, construction, land clearing, utility, or heavy civil environments.
• Experience with 336 excavator and long reach excavator to load trucks.
• Ability to safely operate equipment in rough terrain, wooded environments, and adverse field conditions.
• Strong understanding of equipment safety procedures and daily inspection requirements.
• Ability to work extended hours, weekends, travel assignments, and storm response deployments as needed.
• Willingness to operate other equipment when needed.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug screening and background check.
• High School Diploma
• 3-5 years of experience operating heavy equipment
• Valid Driver License
• 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

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting forestry, fuel reduction, vegetation management, or disaster response operations.
• Experience operating excavators with grapple, forestry, or mulching/mastication attachments.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
• CDL Class A or B license preferred but not required.
• Equipment repair or maintenance certifications/licensing
• Equipment Operating licenses
• Qualified Applicator License (QAL)
• Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC)
• CDL Class A or B license

Responsibilities

• Safely operate excavators in support of forestry, vegetation management, debris removal, and land clearing operations.
• Operate equipment utilizing various attachments including grapples, thumbs, buckets, and forestry or mulching attachments.
• Perform loading, sorting, stacking, trenching, grading, and material handling activities.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance checks.
• Identify mechanical or safety concerns and communicate issues to supervisors and maintenance personnel.
• Maintain awareness of surrounding crews, equipment, utilities, and environmental hazards while operating equipment.
• Follow all company safety policies, site-specific safety plans, OSHA requirements, and operational procedures.
• Support storm restoration and emergency response mobilizations as required.
• Partner with field leadership and ground crews to support operational production goals and timelines.
• Complete required operational and safety documentation accurately and timely.

Benefits

• Comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and travel opportunities
• Per diem and lodging provided for eligible travel assignments

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED