Equipment Operator - Excavator & Skid Steer

About the role

Ceres Environmental Operations (CEO) is seeking an Equipment Operator to support field operations in disaster recovery environments. This role operates excavators and skid steers to load, move, and manage debris and materials.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators and skid steers to load and unload materials such as vegetation, sediment, debris, and storm-related waste.
• 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.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and company safety standards.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and operational readiness.
• 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.
• Demonstrate willingness to operate other pieces of equipment when needed.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years of experience operating excavators and/or skid steers.
• Proven ability to safely handle and move heavy materials.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to work in physically demanding outdoor environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in disaster recovery or environmental services.
• OSHA certification (10 or 30-hour).
• Experience operating multiple types of heavy equipment.
• CDL license preferred.

What to Expect

• This is a field-based role working at active project sites with changing conditions.
• Work involves long hours, travel, and exposure to weather and debris environments.
• You will work closely with a team under tight timelines where safety and adaptability are essential.
• Flexibility is required to support evolving operational needs.

Physical Requirements and Environment

• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Willing to wear PPE, including a hard hat, protective eyewear, and steel-toed boots.
• Ability to work in adverse weather and field conditions.
• Exposure to heavy equipment, moving machinery, and varying terrain.
• Commitment to following safety standards and protocols.