Equipment Operator — Outdoor Heavy Machinery & ESOP

Lewis Services | 100% Employee-Owned; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Sign-on Bonus

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Paid training and certifications

Health, dental, vision & HSA options

401(k) +

Paid time off and EAP

Job summary

Lewis Tree Service is hiring an Equipment Operator to operate heavy equipment, perform maintenance, and promote safety on varied outdoor worksites. The role emphasizes adherence to policies, hazard awareness, and customer relations while supporting vegetation management tasks.

Candidates should hold relevant certifications, CDL, and CPR/First Aid, with willingness to travel and work in diverse conditions. Lewis offers paid training and ESOP benefits.

Qualifications

• Understanding of policies and procedures for Equipment Operators.
• Licenses/certifications to operate heavy equipment.
• General knowledge of trees and arboriculture techniques (if involved in tree work).
• Equipment Operator Technical Knowledge Certification.
• Basic knowledge of electrical circuits and ability to read circuit maps.
• Herbicide applicator certification and licensing.
• Valid driver’s license, CDL, and medical certification (as required).
• CPR and First Aid certification (provided by Lewis).
• Compliance with all applicable laws.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines.
• Safeguard equipment and ensure proper maintenance and inspection.
• Identify and mark hazards in the work area.
• Promote safety for colleagues and the public.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and work vehicles.
• Report equipment issues and incidents immediately.
• Support customer and public relations.
• Drive and operate trucks and other assigned equipment.
• Participate in job briefings and site preparation.
• Remove vegetation and debris (e.g., lifting logs, dragging brush).
• Operate chainsaws and similar equipment after demonstrating proficiency.
• Load/unload trucks and machinery.
• Hike difficult terrain while carrying tools and equipment.
• Apply herbicide in compliance with regulations.
• Set up traffic control zones and direct traffic.
• Travel frequently, including overnight stays.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Safety awareness

Hazard identification

Equipment operation knowledge

Education

Equipment Operator Certification

Electrical circuit reading

Tools

CDL license

Medical certification

Herbicide applicator certification

CPR and First Aid certification

Job description

Lewis Tree Service is hiring an Equipment Operator to operate heavy equipment, perform maintenance, and promote safety on varied outdoor worksites. The role emphasizes adherence to policies, hazard awareness, and customer relations while supporting vegetation management tasks.

Candidates should hold relevant certifications, CDL, and CPR/First Aid, with willingness to travel and work in diverse conditions. Lewis offers paid training and ESOP benefits.