Heavy Equipment Operator - Port of Pine Bluff, AR

Watco Transloading, LLC; Pine Bluff (AR); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Watco Transloading, LLC in Pine Bluff, AR, seeks a Heavy Equipment Operator to support daily transloading and site operations, operating a Friction Crane, Forklift, Skid Steer and other heavy equipment outdoors in varying conditions.

You will perform inspections, participate in safety briefings, and transfer bulk materials between trucks, railcars, barges, and storage areas. A valid driver's license and 2–3 years of equipment experience are preferred; HS or GED is required.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience operating equipment.
• Ability to pass classroom and field evaluations.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Familiarity with cargo types and related safety hazards.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment (Friction Crane, Forklift, Skid Steer) to support transloading and site operations.
• Inspect equipment before/after use and report safety concerns.
• Transfer bulk materials between trucks, railcars, vessels, barges and storage areas.
• Participate in daily safety briefings and adhere to safety/environmental protocols.

Skills

Equipment operation

Safety awareness

Education

HS Diploma or GED

Tools

Friction Crane

Forklift

Skid Steer

Job description

Career Opportunities: Heavy Equipment Operator - Port of Pine Bluff, AR (33991)

Requisition ID33991-Posted10/09/2026-Transload Operations

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 on 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

Schedule: 12-hour day/night rotating shift 2-2-3 or Dupont schedule
Pay: $19.00 per hour
Location Information: Conveniently located on the Arkansas River, the Port of Pine Bluff serves a number of industries including metals, paper, and steel, and is a Foreign Trade Zone. This port is near Little Rock, Arkansas, served by the Union Pacific Railroad, and offers more than 100,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space.
Terminal Address: 4113 Emmett Sanders Rd Pine Bluff, AR 71601

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

• The primary purpose of this position is to transload materials by using a Friction Crane, Forklift (Taylor Lift), Skid Steer, and other heavy equipment as necessary. This position will be operating in the field inside of barges, inside gondola cars, warehouses, and other locations as needed.
• 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 this includes but is not limited to 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 Drivers license
• 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