Equipment Operator - ARP

Georgia Ports Authority; Crandall (GA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Georgia Ports Authority is seeking an Equipment Operator for the Appalachian Regional Port to operate container handling equipment safely and efficiently, under supervision. The role requires physical endurance, adherence to safety standards, and coordination with drivers and yard staff.

A valid CDL and TWIC are preferred, with training provided as needed. The position is non-exempt, with responsibilities spanning loading/unloading, equipment inspections, and routine maintenance support across

Qualifications

• Experience operating heavy equipment such as RTGs, forklifts, and related machinery.
• Ability to work at heights and perform manual labor up to 50 pounds.
• Proof of safe work practices and the ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Responsibilities

• Operate container handling equipment in a safe, productive manner.
• Load and unload containers and chassis; coordinate with yard operations.
• Inspect equipment and report safety or mechanical issues to supervision.
• Perform clerical duties related to receiving and delivering containers.
• Assist with maintenance tasks and fuel/equipment checks as needed.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

TWIC

Driver's License

Job description

Job Overview

Under the supervision of an Assistant Manager, or the manager's designee, the Equipment Operator operates all container handling equipment and performs associated duties in a safe and productive manner. The work performance is to meet a standard of quality that facilitates our service commitments to our customers.

Job Information

Job Title: Equipment Operator - ARP

Location(s): Appalachian Regional Port

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Under the supervision of an Assistant Manager, or the manager's designee, the Equipment Operator operates all container handling equipment and performs associated duties in a safe and productive manner. The work performance is to meet a standard of quality that facilitates our service commitments to our customers.

Upholds the values of the GPA to promote Safety, Integrity, Respect, Community, Creativity and Opportunity. Promotes a safe work environment by participating in safety initiatives and reporting unsafe conditions and behaviors.

Job Duties

• Capable and willing to operate all of the major types of container field equipment including, but not limited to Jockey Truck, Forklift, Forklift with chassis flipper attachment, Toplift (full and empty), Rubber Tired Gantry Crane, and Rail Mounted Gantry Cranes; operating them in a safe and efficient manner while loading and unloading containers and chassis.


• Willing and able to work productively in conjunction with over-the-road drivers and yard operations.


• Inspects assigned equipment in order to record its safe working condition and report mechanical and safety deficiencies to an immediate supervisor.


• Works safely at all times and is able to follow instructions.


• Performs manual labor involving lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, kneeling, climbing, walking, pushing, and pulling.


• Performs all clerical duties related to receiving and delivering containers/chassis.


• Willing and able to learn RF systems, computers, and other technology.


• Maintains accurate stack inventory from containers and chassis received and delivered to/from gate, rail, and warehouse.


• Checks for damage and/or exceptions on cargo and records and/or reports events accordingly. Performs various types of preventative maintenance and repairs to equipment, as needed.


• Assists maintenance crews with various types of preventative maintenance and repairs to equipment; including but not limited to equipment lubrication, wheel/tire replacements, hoist & ACM rope replacements. Use of standard hand tools required.


• Installs and verifies the inter-box connectors (IBC) on rail cars after the top container is loaded. Uninstall connectors as needed prior to unloading containers.


• Assist in unplugging and moving main power cables on RTG.


• Guides or directs peers working within his/her jurisdiction.


• Must be able to conduct equipment training for new and promoted employees.


• Performs other duties as assigned


• Complies with all policies and standards

Job Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Possess working knowledge of heavy equipment, to facilitate the operation of RTGs.


• Have the ability to work at heights of up to 75 feet.


• Perform manual labor involving lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, kneeling, climbing, walking, pushing, and pulling.


• Be in good physical condition with excellent peripheral vision, night vision, depth perception, the ability to distinguish colors.


• Vision requirements: Visual acuity of 20/40 with or without corrective lenses for each eye, the minimum depth perception of 6/9, and minimum peripheral vision of 70 degrees for each eye.


• Hearing threshold of 40 decibels (dB) or less in either the left or right ear at the frequencies of 500 hertz (Hz), 1000 hertz (Hz), and 2000 hertz (Hz).


• Must have good eye-hand-foot coordination, the ability to follow instructions, and perform routine, repetitive work.


• Have the ability to communicate in writing and to accomplish tasks from written instructions.


• Must be able to work shift work, holidays, and weekends when necessary.


• Must possess the ability to be trained as new technology is introduced into the workplace.


• Having the ability to interact and communicate effectively and professionally with GPA staff on all levels is required.


• Daily work assignment changes will be implemented at management's discretion.


• Cross-training will be ongoing for assistance in such an event.


• Must have the ability to work in and make the work adjustment according to changes occurring in various weather conditions i.e., hot, cold, humid, wet, etc.


• Carry the ability to successfully complete training on new technology, as automation is introduced into the job.

Experience

• Previous experience in heavy equipment operation, possession of a valid CDL, and some clerical experience are Preferred

Education

• Required High School Diploma or equivalent

Licenses & Certifications

• TWIC - Transportation Worker Identification Credential Required Upon Hire


• Driver's License - Valid state driver's license Required Upon Hire

Note: This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, job requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Management reserves the right to revise the job or to require the performance of different or additional tasks. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, an without direct threat to the health or safety of others.

Revised: 5/14/2026

Mission: To empower entrepreneurs, strengthen industries, sustain communities, and fortify families by relentlessly striving to accelerate global commerce.