Groundsman A / Chofer

Ceres Caribe; San Juan (PR); On-site; USD 24,796 - 30,307; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Travel opportunities

Professional growth and advancement

Job summary

Ceres Caribe is seeking a Groundsman Level A / Driver in Puerto Rico to support vegetation management and tree trimming operations. The role requires a valid Heavy Vehicle License and responsibilities include safely trimming trees and operating light equipment. We're looking for candidates with a high school diploma and less than 6 months of experience in physical labor. Compensation ranges from $18 to $22 per hour, based on experience and qualifications. Join us in making a meaningful impact on community recovery efforts.

Qualifications

• Must hold a valid Heavy Vehicle License (Category 8 or 9).
• Less than 6 months experience in a physical labor position.
• Working knowledge of CPR/First Aid.

Responsibilities

• Trim trees, chip brush, and move vegetative material safely.
• Set up and maintain gear for operations.
• Operate light equipment such as chainsaws and blowers.

Skills

Heavy Vehicle License

CPR/First Aid

Physical labor skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Chainsaws

Weed eaters

Aerial lifts/bucket trucks

Job description

Job Title: Groundsman Level A / Chofer

Location: Puerto Rico (includes Vieques and Culebra)

Reports to: Crew Foreman

Compensation Range: $18 - $22 hourly (based on experience and qualifications)

To be considered for an interview, applicants must hold a valid Heavy Vehicle License (Category 8 or 9) and a current Commission License.

About Ceres Caribe

Ceres Caribe was founded in Puerto Rico in 1998 after Hurricane Georges. It has since grown to be one of the largest employers by providing careers on the island. Ceres Caribe is recognized for its rapid disaster recovery including debris removal, demolition, and blue roofs. We perform resiliency services, including vegetation management and utility line clearing for the Puerto Rican power grid. Ceres Caribe is also nationally recognized for creating natural parks and an aviary center on the island. The company is expanding its efforts to assist in securing the power grid for the Island.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People

At Ceres Caribe, we believe you’re more than just an employee; you’re part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. Whether in management, field operations, or behind the scenes, every team member plays a vital role in restoring hope, helping communities recover and rebuild.

We value initiative, respect diversity, and give our people the freedom to lead. We offer competitive pay, travel opportunities, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork. If you show up with compassion, share the commitment, react with urgency, and deliver solutions, you’ll fit right in. We don’t just respond to challenges; we rise to them.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a Groundsman Level A / Driver to support vegetation management and tree trimming operations. This role does not supervise others and works within the minimum approach distance of energized electrical lines. Success in the first year includes mastering safe equipment operation, supporting aerial tasks, and maintaining compliance with safety standards.

What You Will Do

• Work under supervision to safely trim trees, chip brush, and move vegetative material.
• Demonstrate proficiency in CPR/First Aid and previous classification.
• Assist crew members with gear setup and maintenance.
• Assist climbers with gear preparation, inspection, and aerial work‑related tasks.
• Operate light equipment such as chainsaws, weed eaters, pole trimmers, and blowers.
• Learn to operate chippers, vehicles, and aerial lifts/bucket trucks from the ground.
• Maintain basic knowledge of tree workers aerial climbing techniques.
• Learn all aspects of trailer hauling and towing.
• Implement safe work practices in accordance with industry standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Commercial Driver License: Class A or Heavy 8.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Less than 6 months experience in a physical labor position.
• Working knowledge of CPR/First Aid.
• Valid Driver License (CSP - Public Service Commission License for Freight Forwarding (TC)).

Preferred Qualifications

• Qualified Applicator License (QAL).
• Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC).

What To Expect

As a Groundsman Level A / Driver, you will be part of a mission‑driven team focused on vegetation management and utility support. You will work outdoors year‑round in varying environments and contribute to the safety and efficiency of field operations. Expect to travel across Puerto Rico and engage in physically demanding tasks with a strong emphasis on safety and teamwork.

Physical Requirements And Environment

• Must be able to stand, walk, sit, climb, and balance in varying conditions.
• Must be able to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance and talk or hear.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Must have specific vision abilities including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Must be willing to wear PPE including hard hat, protective eyewear, steel‑toed boots, etc.
• Ability to work in challenging environments including adverse weather, elevated spaces, confined spaces, extreme temperatures, mechanical parts, wet/humid conditions, high places, airborne particles, electrical shock risk, vibration, and loud noise levels.
• Commitment to following safety standards and protocols.

Why Join Ceres Caribe?

At Ceres Caribe, you won’t just have a job, you’ll have a mission. Your work will directly impact the speed and strength of community recovery after disasters.

We Offer

• A collaborative, mission‑driven culture.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
• The chance to make a lasting difference for communities across the U.S.

Ceres Caribe is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Aff… employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law

E‑Verify: We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility.