FORESTRY HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Eastern Shore Forest Products, Inc.; Salisbury (MD); On-site; USD 42,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Eastern Shore Forest Products in Maryland is seeking a Forestry Heavy Equipment Operator to support sustainable timber harvesting and site work. You will operate a range of forestry machinery, perform inspections, and coordinate with supervisors and field crews to complete projects safely and on time.

The role requires 2-5 years of heavy equipment experience, a valid license, and a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of experience operating heavy equipment.
• Valid driver’s license with satisfactory driving record; no special CDL required.
• Strong understanding of equipment safety and OSHA compliance.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions and communicate effectively with supervisors, co-workers, and the public.
• Reliable work ethic with a team-first attitude.
• Willingness to work overtime when needed.
• Ability to pass pre-employment and random drug screenings.
• High school diploma or GED; technical training preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy machinery, including Knuckleboom loaders, Feller Bunchers, and other forestry equipment.
• Perform daily inspections and preventative equipment checks using company inspection checklists.
• Monitor and maintain fluid levels, equipment performance, and overall machine condition.
• Identify and report equipment issues, hazards, or maintenance needs to supervisors.
• Conduct ongoing safety inspections of equipment, including seat belts, lights, fire extinguishers, and other critical safety components.
• Survey work areas for hazards such as power lines, underground utilities, uneven terrain, and nearby crew members.
• Inspect and maintain machinery attachments to ensure safe and proper operation.
• Follow work orders and company procedures accurately and efficiently.
• Assist with routine maintenance, including oil changes, hose replacement, and minor repairs.
• Maintain clean, organized equipment and work areas.
• Work closely with crew members and supervisors to complete projects safely and on time.
• Leave every job site in a safe and professional condition.
• Maintain constant communication with the team throughout the workday.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety-conscious

Teamwork

Communication

Reliability

Overtime willingness

Independent work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical training in heavy equipment or forestry operations

Job description

Join Eastern Shore Forest Products, one of the largest forest products companies on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, and help power an operation built on safety, teamwork, and hard work. We are looking for dependable, safety-focused operators who take pride in running equipment efficiently and getting the job done right.

We are seeking a dedicated Forestry Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team, supporting sustainable forest management and timber harvesting operations. This position is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive operation of forestry equipment used in timber harvesting, site preparation, road construction, loading, and land management activities. This position operates a variety of heavy machinery while adhering to company policies, environmental regulations, and safety standards. The operator works closely with forestry supervisors, truck drivers, and field crews to support sustainable forestry operations and production goals.

• Operate heavy machinery, including Knuckleboom loaders, Feller Bunchers, and other forestry equipment
• Perform daily inspections and preventative equipment checks using company inspection checklists
• Monitor and maintain fluid levels, equipment performance, and overall machine condition
• Identify and report equipment issues, hazards, or maintenance needs to supervisors
• Conduct ongoing safety inspections of equipment, including seat belts, lights, fire extinguishers, and other critical safety components
• Survey work areas for hazards such as power lines, underground utilities, uneven terrain, and nearby crew members
• Inspect and maintain machinery attachments to ensure safe and proper operation
• Follow work orders and company procedures accurately and efficiently
• Assist with routine maintenance, including oil changes, hose replacement, and minor repairs
• Maintain clean, organized equipment and work areas
• Work closely with crew members and supervisors to complete projects safely and on time
• Leave every job site in a safe and professional condition
• Maintain constant communication with the team throughout the workday

Position Requirements

• 2-5 years of experience operating heavy equipment
• Valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.
• No special CDL or equipment license required
• Strong understanding of equipment safety and OSHA compliance
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions and communicate effectively with supervisors, co-workers, and the public
• Reliable work ethic with a team-first attitude
• Willingness to work overtime when needed
• Ability to pass pre-employment and random drug screenings
• Ability to safely operate heavy forestry and construction equipment in varying terrain and weather conditions.
• Commitment to workplace safety and environmental stewardship.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work extended hours, weekends, and travel to remote job sites as required
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical training in heavy equipment operation, forestry operations, or a related field preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment.
• Ability to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl to inspect and maintain equipment.
• Ability to frequently enter and exit heavy equipment cabs.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift greater weights with assistance.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, dust, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to withstand exposure to vibration, noise, diesel fumes, and other environmental conditions common to forestry operations.
• Ability to maintain visual acuity, depth perception, and hand-eye coordination necessary for safe equipment operation.
• Ability to work extended shifts and overtime as operational needs require.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed footwear.

At Eastern Shore Forest Products, you’re more than just an operator, you are part of a team that values safety, respect, accountability, and growth. We believe in creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and proud of the work they do every day.

With facilities across Maryland, Delaware, and Texas, we continue to grow through continuous improvement, strong leadership, and hardworking people who want to build a career with a company that invests in its team.