Equipment Operator - Skid Steer

CERES•Saint Louis, MO

7d•$22 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

Ceres Environmental Operations is seeking an Equipment Operator to support field operations in disaster recovery environments. The role operates excavators and skid steers to load, unload, move, and manage vegetation, sediment, debris, storm-related waste, and other materials. The operator also supports site clearing, grading, staging, logistics, and general labor as needed, and may operate other equipment when required. This is a field-based position at active project sites with changing conditions. The work involves long hours, travel, outdoor and physically demanding conditions, adverse weather, debris, heavy equipment, moving machinery, and varying terrain. The operator works closely with a team under tight timelines, with safety, flexibility, and adaptability essential to supporting evolving operational needs. Ceres Environmental Operations describes itself as a crisis management, rapid response, and disaster recovery organization providing emergency response, environmental services, planning, and consulting. Its work includes debris removal and management, blue roofs, logistics, demolition, recycling, forest management, and coastal and marine restoration.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 2 years of experience operating excavators and/or skid steers; the qualifications section also states 3–5 years of heavy-equipment operating experience.
Proven ability to safely handle and move heavy materials.
Valid driver’s license.
Ability to work in physically demanding outdoor environments.
Class A or B Commercial Driver License, listed under minimum qualifications.
Ability to receive direction or guidance and work within a team.
Ability to communicate well with others.
Problem-solving skills and ability to recognize safety hazards.
Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Willingness to wear required PPE, including a hard hat, protective eyewear, and steel-toed boots.
Ability to work in adverse weather and field conditions and follow safety standards and protocols.
Authorization to work in the United States; employment eligibility verification is required at hire.

Nice To Haves

Experience in disaster recovery or environmental services.
OSHA certification (10- or 30-hour).
Experience operating multiple types of heavy equipment.
CDL license preferred (also listed as a minimum qualification, with Class A or B specified).
Equipment repair or maintenance certifications or licensing.
Equipment operating licenses.
Qualified Applicator License (QAL).
Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC).
Knowledge of new and emerging technologies and equipment and how to apply them to business operations.

Responsibilities

Operate excavators and skid steers to load and unload vegetation, sediment, debris, storm-related waste, and other materials.
Perform site clearing, grading, and material movement activities.
Inspect equipment daily and report maintenance or safety issues.
Follow project plans and supervisor instructions to complete assigned tasks.
Comply with OSHA, DOT, and company safety standards.
Keep equipment clean and operationally ready.
Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.
Support staging and logistics operations as needed.
Assist with general labor tasks when equipment is not in use.
Operate other pieces of equipment when needed.
Operate and haul equipment in accordance with industry guidance and standards.
Repair, refurbish, or fix heavy equipment as applicable.