Operator - Chicago Heights, IL

Watco; Chicago Heights (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Culture recognition

Competitive pay

Paid on-the-job training

Watco University programs

Career advancement

Job summary

Watco seeks an Operator in Chicago Heights to safely operate heavy equipment for daily transloading and site operations. You will work with teams to load and unload cargo, perform inspections, and follow safety procedures, with a focus on reliability and teamwork.

Typical shift is 6:30am–3:00pm, Monday–Friday, with overtime as needed to meet operations. Outdoor work in varied conditions requires safety-conscious candidates with relevant credentials.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of equipment operation experience preferred.
• Ability to pass classroom and field evaluations for equipment.
• Familiar with various cargo types and safety hazards.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Credentials for equipment preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment to support transloading and site operations.
• Load and unload cargo between trucks, railcars, vessels, barges, and storage areas.
• Inspect equipment before and after use and report safety concerns promptly.
• Participate in daily safety briefings and maintain a strong safety focus.
• Follow written and verbal instructions to meet schedules.
• Work outdoors in varied weather and keep area safe and organized.

Skills

Equipment operation

Safety awareness

Cargo handling

Driver's license

Education

High School diploma or GED

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 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
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Job Summary

Hourly Rate: $18.50

Schedule: Monday‑Friday (OT & weekends as needed)

Typical Hours: 6:30am - 3:00pm (will need to stay until the work is done, truck loading, railcar unloading, etc.)

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 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