Heavy Equipment Operator

T. Parker Host; Darrow (LA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

T. Parker Host is seeking a skilled terminal operator for Ascension Bulk Terminal in Louisiana. The role involves operating heavy machinery, including cranes and forklifts, to load ships and distribute cargo according to the plan.

You will work as part of a team across receiving and loading operations and must meet safety and regulatory standards. Candidates should have a HS diploma or GED, a valid driver’s license, and a TWIC or ability to obtain one.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or GED required; experience operating heavy machinery including cranes and bulldozers preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and TWIC or ability to obtain a TWIC is required.

Responsibilities

• Operate terminal equipment to distribute cargo to holds or warehouse per operating plan.
• Coordinate information flow between crew members and location staff/management.
• Load ships using conveyors, ship loaders and associated equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance checks and report any issues to maintenance/supervisor.
• Ensure safety procedures and government/certification standards are met.
• Work with flaggers during lifts or rigging as needed.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Crane operation

Forklift operation

Safety compliance

Team coordination

Education

HS diploma or GED

TWIC credential or eligible

Job description

Ascension Bulk Terminal is a 230-acre bulk commodities facility located at Mile 169 on the Mississippi River. Specializing in coal and petcoke, the terminal is also equipped to handle a variety of other bulk materials. In 2025, T. Parker Host (HOST) acquired the facility in 2025- formerly known as Impala Burnside Terminal from Impala Terminals Burnside. This strategic addition expands HOST’s portfolio to three privately owned terminals and strengthens its growing network of assets and services.

Position Summary

In this position, the team member will operate all terminal equipment to distribute the cargo safely and efficiently to the appropriate cargo holds or warehouse as per the operating plan and instructions; Operate as a member of a team, responsible for coordinating information flow between each crew member and location staff/management in the receiving and loading of cargo.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties

• Operates various types of cargo related equipment such as conveying equipment, dust collectors, ship loaders, monitor fire suppression systems and all associated equipment to load ships per operating plan and instructions.
• Operates equipment such as diesel or gasoline powered forklifts, bulldozers, skid steers or heavy pay loaders, Ship Gear, excavators to perform any work for which equipment is designed.
• Maintains housekeeping standards as part of fire safety program or as designated by location staff/management.
• Responsible for checking equipment for damage or repairs needed and reporting information to Maintenance Supervisor or Terminal Manager.
• Make regular inspections of the transport systems and perform minor maintenance tasks such as adjusting and lubricating equipment, cleaning, washing, testing, replacing filters, hoses, and other minor maintenance as necessary to maximize port systems availability and reliability.
• Performs minor maintenance tasks such as repairing, adjusting, and lubricating equipment, gauges, valves, hoses, and etc. as necessary to maximize machine availability/reliability and assist maintenance personnel as required.
• Complies with all procedures to ensure governmental, state, and company certification standards are met.
• Performs all duties assigned by the Shift Leader(s), Operations Manager(s), and Terminal Manager to make sure port operations continue without interruption.
• Ensure that safe equipment operating conditions are met before and during operation.
• Works closely, as needed, with flaggers when making lifts or rigging equipment or material.

Education, Knowledge, Experience, Skills and Abilities Required

• HS diploma / GED with experience operating heavy machinery including cranes and bulldozers
• Ability to respond to issues quickly, safely and effectively in a fast-paced, stressful operating environment
• Valid driver’s license and TWIC or ability to obtain a TWIC requiredi>
• Ability to work outside in all types of weather
• Must be available to work varied hours, shifts including days/nights/weekends/holidays as required

Physical Requirements

• Must meet "fit for duty" requirements upon job offer (pre-employment physical and drug test)
• The employee must meet physical requirements including but not limited to, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, climbing up/down ladders and stairs, negotiating uneven and moving surfaces
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Perform work in dusty environment and all types of temperature/weather conditions.

HOST, and its affiliated companies, is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

For more information, please visit www.tparkerhost.com