Equipment Operator - Excavator & Skid Steer

Ceres Global; Sarasota (FL); On-site; USD 30,307 - 38,572; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical package

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Ceres Global is looking for an Equipment Operator (Excavator & Skid Steer) in Sarasota, FL. This role involves operating heavy machinery to load and unload materials, performing site clearing, and ensuring safety compliance. A valid driver's license and a high school diploma are required, along with 2+ years of relevant experience.

The position offers a competitive hourly salary of $22.00 - $28.00, a comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for bonuses. The job demands flexibility and adaptability to changing conditions in the field.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience operating excavators and/or skid steers.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Ability to work in physically demanding outdoor environments.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators and skid steers to load and unload materials.
• Inspect equipment daily and report maintenance or safety issues.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and company safety standards.

Skills

Excavator operation

Skid steer operation

Heavy material handling

Safety compliance

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

PPE (hard hat, protective eyewear, steel-toed boots)

Job description

Job Title

Equipment Operator (Excavator & Skid Steer)

Job Location

Sarasota, FL 34240 (On‑site project location; determined upon hiring)

Position Type & Compensation

• Full‑Time Temporary
• $22.00 - $28.00 hourly salary (location, experience, skills, qualifications)
• Eligible for discretionary bonus

Benefits

• Comprehensive package including medical, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and travel opportunities

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators and skid steers to load and unload materials (vegetation, sediment, debris, 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.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Equipment repair or maintenance certifications/licensing.
• Equipment operating licenses.
• Qualified Applicator License (QAL).
• Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC).
• Knowledge of new and emerging technologies and equipment.
• Knowledge to operate and haul equipment in accordance with industry guidance and standards.
• Ability to repair, refurbish, or fix heavy equipment.
• 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.

What to Expect

This field‑based role is 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.
• Willingly 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.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Ceres does not sponsor employment‑based visas for this position unless stated otherwise. E‑Verify: We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility.