Equipment Operator - Excavator & Skid Steer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Eligible for discretionary bonus

Paid time off

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Ceres Environmental Operations is seeking an experienced Equipment Operator for their field operations in disaster recovery environments. This role will involve operating excavators and skid steers to manage debris and materials efficiently. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience and be able to work in demanding outdoor conditions.

Benefits include medical coverage, 401(k) matching, and travel opportunities. Applicants must hold a valid driver's license and be authorized to work in the U.S.

Qualifications

• 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.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators and skid steers to load and unload materials.
• Perform site clearing, grading, and material movement activities.
• Inspect equipment daily and report maintenance or safety issues.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety standards.

Skills

Operating excavators and skid steers

Problem-solving

Safety hazard recognition

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Commercial driver license, Class A or B

Tools

Heavy equipment

Job description

Job Title: Equipment Operator (Excavator & Skid Steer)

Location: On-site Project Location (Project location will be determined upon hiring)

Reports to: Field Supervisor / Project Manager

Compensation Range: $22–$28 hourly (depending on location, experience, skills, and qualifications)

Other Compensation: Eligible for a discretionary bonus

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

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support field operations in disaster recovery environments. This role is responsible for operating excavators and skid steers to load, move and manage debris and materials in support of project execution. This position does not typically manage personnel but is critical to production and safety. Success in the first 12 months includes safe and efficient equipment operation, productivity in debris removal activities, and willingness to support additional operational needs.

What You Will Do

• 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.

Required 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.
• Commercial driver license, Class A or B.

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.

Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge to operate and haul equipment in accordance with industry guidance and standards.
• Knowledge and ability to repair, refurbish or fix heavy equipment.
• Apply knowledge of new and emerging technologies and equipment to business operations.
• 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.

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.