(116) Machine Operator

Opterra Solutions, Inc.; Augusta (KY); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Machine Operator to perform essential vegetation management services across various outdoor sites. This role requires a high school diploma and a valid driver's license, along with the ability to travel frequently. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong safety awareness, customer service skills, and the ability to operate diverse equipment effectively. Join a team that values integrity, initiative, and passion while contributing to impactful projects that enhance community landscapes. If you're ready to take on a rewarding challenge in a dynamic environment, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license and good driving record are essential.
• Ability to obtain OSHA 10 certification within six months.

Responsibilities

• Manage unwanted vegetation using chemical and mechanical methods.
• Safely operate and maintain grounds maintenance equipment.

Skills

Driving Skills

Vegetation Management

Safety Procedures

Customer Service

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Tools

Grounds Maintenance Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Hand Tools

Job description

SUMMARY
The Machine Operator is responsible for performing vegetation management services outdoors on customer sites which include, but are not limited to, industrial plant sites, DOT rights of way, city/county sewer or water rights of way, gas pipelines, airports, and other commercial areas at or near business sites.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• High school diploma or equivalent
• A valid driver’s license, good driving record, and the ability to drive company vehicles
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOT medical card
• Ability to travel 50 – 75% by vehicle, with overnight travel throughout territory
• Ability to obtain OSHA 10 certification within six (6) months of start date of position
• Ability to obtain state traffic control certification within six (6) months of start date of position
• Completed Groundsman training, or equivalent experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Experience of previous work-related skill, knowledge or operator experience based on type of equipment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Must have the ability to sit, kneel, bend, stand, or walk for 8-11 hours a day
• Must have the ability to routinely lift, push, pull, or move equipment of 75 pounds or more
• Must have the ability to perform repetitive tasks with their hands
• Must have the ability to withstand exposure to various weather conditions while completing work assignments (rain, heat, humidity, sun, etc.)
• Must have the ability to walk, stand, and move through diverse types of terrain, including uneven ground and sloped embankments
• Must be willing to be in close proximity to wildlife such as snakes, stinging insects, spiders, and other species
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as necessary

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrate our five core values (Safety, Others, Integrity, Initiative, and Passion)
• Use a variety of techniques including chemical and mechanical methods to manage unwanted vegetation
• Prepare chemicals or materials for work application
• Dispose of trash or waste materials properly by following the instructions on the label under the Storage and Disposal section (unless preapproved to leave waste onsite)
• Verify that hazardous chemicals are handled, stored, and disposed of in accordance with regulations
• Remove debris or vegetation from work sites
• Keep record of usage and disposal of hazardous chemicals
• Drive trucks or other vehicles to or at work sites, with or without trailers to haul supplies and tools
• Safely operate and maintain grounds maintenance equipment such as mowers, tractors, twin-axle vehicles, UTVs, excavators, seed spreaders, straw blowers, snow blowers, towed machines (cutters and spreaders), and similar equipment
• Safely walk beside or ride on machines while operating mechanisms at specified intervals
• Load and unload containers of materials, manually or using conveyors, hand-trucks, forklifts, or transfer augers per safety training
• Lift, push, and pull hoses or equipment into place for application
• Manipulate controls to set, activate, and adjust mechanisms on machinery
• Direct vehicle traffic including flagging motorists and setting out signs and cones
• Safely use hand tools such as shovels, rakes, pruning saws, saws, hedge or brush trimmers, or axes
• Perform preventative, routine maintenance on vehicles and heavy equipment
• Adjust, repair and service machinery and notify supervisors when machinery malfunctions
• Clean or service machinery to ensure operating efficiency
• Comply with all applicable traffic laws and regulations while operating a vehicle
• Adhere to safety procedures including conforming to all OSHA standards and properly using personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Adhere to company policies and procedures
• Confer with supervisors to make operational decisions
• Participate in company meetings, trainings, and certification/licensure programs
• Prioritize building strong relationships by effectively communicating with our customers, their needs, and expectations, to delivering exceptional customer service and a positive experience