Front End Loader Operator / Heavy Equipment Operator - Port of West Memphis, AR

Watco; Memphis (TN); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek

Competitive compensation and benefits

Paid on-the-job training

Leadership and development programs

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Watco is looking for an Operator in Memphis, TN, responsible for safely operating heavy equipment at our terminal. The role includes transferring bulk materials and conducting equipment inspections while focusing on safety and teamwork.

The successful candidate must have 2-3 years of experience operating equipment, a valid driver's license is preferred, and must be 18 or older with a High School or GED equivalent. Competitive compensation of at least $20/hr is offered!

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience operating equipment is strongly preferred.
• Competency with the equipment type is required.
• Familiarity with various cargo types and safety hazards.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate various heavy equipment for transloading and site operations.
• Transfer bulk materials and cargo as per safety standards.
• Conduct equipment inspections before and after use.

Skills

Operating heavy equipment

Safety compliance

Teamwork

Adaptability to weather conditions

Education

High School or GED equivalent

Tools

Front end loader

Skid steer

Job description

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support‑services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all the same team. One Watco.

Here’s What You Can Expect From Watco

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on‑the‑job training with peer trainers
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Starting Pay: $20/hr+ depending on equipment experience (front end loader, skid steer)

Schedule: Monday–Friday, Day Shift | Weekends and overtime as needed

Work Environment: Port / barge dock terminal

Terminal Address: 4500 S Avalon St. West Memphis, AR 72301

Job Summary

The Operator is responsible for safely operating a variety of heavy equipment to support daily transloading and site operations. Operators work both independently and collaboratively in outdoor environments under varying conditions to ensure smooth and reliable site performance.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Able to obtain qualifications and show competencies in the equipment type that they will be required to operate
• Transfer bulk materials and other cargo between trucks, railcars, vessels, barges, and storage areas in accordance with proper procedures and safety standards
• Conduct equipment inspections before and after use; report or address any maintenance or safety concerns promptly with leadership and safety team
• Participate in daily safety and job briefings, maintaining a strong focus on safety, environmental protection, and teamwork
• Follow written and verbal instructions to complete tasks efficiently and meet operational schedules
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions while maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work area, including the cab of their equipment and surrounding work area

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be able to pass and/or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position and location. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Minimal of 2-3 years of experience operating equipment is strongly preferred
• Must show competency level and understanding with the type of equipment they are selected to operate by passing both classroom and field evaluation with satisfactory marks
• Must show familiarity with various cargo types and understand the hazards associated with them in regard to equipment, cargo, and pedestrian safety
• Valid Driver's license preferred
• Past credentials for associated equipment are preferred but not required

Education

Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent