Heavy Equipment Forestry Operator in Sonora

Energy Jobline ZR; Sonora (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Markit! is seeking a Forestry Equipment Operator to support multiple projects across California and surrounding states. The role involves operating heavy forestry machinery, performing chainsaw felling, and managing slash operations, with frequent travel and overnight stays.

You will work under the Project Foreman and Superintendent, maintaining equipment, adhering to safety standards, and participating in site maintenance training. Strong outdoor endurance and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience operating heavy machinery in the forestry industry.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have a clean driving record.
• Must pass pre-employment background check.
• Ability to work in a team and independently.
• Willing to travel 50–75% (potentially up to 100%) and spend multiple overnights at project sites.
• Able to perform strenuous outdoor work in varied weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Operate Markit!’s heavy forestry equipment (e.g., skidder, feller buncher, log loader, harvester, delimber, masticator, tracked skidder, dozer, excavator, chipper) as needed.
• Perform chainsaw felling, including directional felling, limbing and bucking.
• Manage slash operations (lop-and-scatter, chipping, hauling).
• Conduct road work, excavation, lifting, site clean-up; ensure safe, efficient workflow.
• Complete daily inspections and coordinate repairs with the Fleet Department.
• Adhere to safety standards and promote safety culture on site.
• Participate in weekly job site maintenance training.
• Perform equipment repairs and maintenance as required.

Skills

Heavy machinery operation

Forestry industry experience

Teamwork

Problem solving

Tools

Skidder

Feller Buncher

Log Loader

Harvester

Delimber

Masticator

Tracked Skidder

Dozer

Excavator

Chipper

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Job Description: This position will help Markit! execute various forestry projects and be responsible for assisting in the proper maintenance, preparation and operation of all tools and equipment including hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and heavy machinery. This position will report to and work closely with the Project Foreman and Superintendent.

Location:Projects may be located throughout the State of California and surrounding states.

Travel: 50-75% but may be up to 100% depending on the project assignment. Lodging and per diem provided as well as adequate time off for rest.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Operate Markit!’s heavy forestry equipment (e.g. Skidder, Feller Buncher, Log Loader, Harvester, Delimber, Masticator, Tracked Skidder, Dozer, Excavator, Chipper) as appropriate for each project.
• Perform chainsaw felling operations, including directional felling, limbing, and bucking.
• Manage slash operations, including lop-and-scatter, chipping, and hauling.
• Perform road work, excavation, lifting work, site clean-up, etc.
• Control erosion by contour felling and LEB creation and installation.
• Responsible for completing and submitting proper daily inspections and maintenance on assigned machine(s), requesting any necessary repairs/maintenance from the Fleet Department.
• Adhere to Markit!’s safety standards and promote safety culture among crew members, including the proper use of machinery and equipment and resolve problems when they arise.
• Participate in weekly job site maintenance training conducted by the Foreman.
• Perform equipment repairs/maintenance.
• Prepare to spend multiple overnights at project sites, as necessary.
• General forestry labor, as necessary and appropriate.

Requirements:

• 1- 3 years of experience in operating heavy machinery, forestry industry .
• 18 years of or older.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Must pass pre-employment background check.
• Ability to work in a team and independently.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Have the ability and desire to perform strenuous outdoor work on rough terrain in a variety of inclement weather conditions.
• Quick and able learner with strong leadership skills and a keen eye for details and good decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and stress and handle emergency situations.
• Effectively complete work projects on time.