Operator Grinder

Ceres Global; Sarasota (FL); On-site; USD 26,174 - 38,572; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical benefits

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Ceres Global is looking for a Grinder Operator to manage a mobile tub grinder on project sites. This role involves grinding woody debris into wood chips and handling machinery operation independently.

Ideal candidates should have at least 1 year of experience in heavy machinery operation, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to follow safety protocols. A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits are offered for this full-time temporary position in Sarasota, Florida.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of experience as a log loader operator or similar.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to read and comprehend instructions.

Responsibilities

• Safely control the grinder to produce usable wood chips.
• Operate independently following work plans.
• Perform basic machine service and minor repairs.

Skills

Log loader operation

Heavy equipment operation

Safety compliance

Basic maintenance skills

Tools

Doppstadt grinder

Vermeer grinder

Diamond Z grinder

Job description

Job Title: Grinder Operator

Location: Onsite Project Location (Project location will be determined upon hiring)

Reports to: Field Supervisor / Project Manager

Job Type: Full Time Temporary

Salary Range: $19.00 - $28.00 hourly

Travel Percentage: Road Warrior

Category: Operational/ERD

Compensation: $19-$28 hourly (depending on location, experience, skills, and qualifications)

Benefits: Comprehensive package including medical, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and travel opportunities

Job Summary

The Grinder Operator operates a mobile “tub grinder” machine, which parks at a Debris Reduction Site to grind piles of vegetative storm debris into wood chips and biomass fuel usable in a number of commercial products. The chipper machine grinds the woody material and then dumps the ground‑up wood into a waiting truck or pile. The operator runs a large portable machine that can process whole trees, limbs, and woody debris (“slash”) into chips or mulch. The machine may be equipped with attachments such as a loading boom & grapple, debarker, chip screens, or conveyor.

Duties & Responsibilities

• The operator safely controls the machine using buttons, pedals, and levers to grind waste wood into usable wood chip products.
• Operates independently following detailed work plans and specifications.
• Follows safe practices and rules while clearing and trimming trees and brush away from utility lines.
• Communicates safe machine operations and logs movement activities using a radio.
• Performs basic machine service, refueling, diagnostics, and minor repairs.
• Wears special safety gear, climbs onto/off the chipper, and walks on uneven terrain.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Required Qualifications

• At least 1 year of experience as a log loader operator or other forestry equipment operator; or 1 year operating farm machinery or similar heavy equipment.
• Ability to read and comprehend verbal and written instructions.
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• 5+ years of related experience.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Proficiency with arithmetic operations and measurement conversions.
• Experience with Doppstadt, Vermeer, and Diamond Z grinders.
• Ability to maintain these grinders.

Physical Demands

Employee is required to stand, walk, use hands to handle or feel, reach, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Vision requirements include close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception, with the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

Employee is exposed to wet/humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, outdoor weather, and vibration. Occasionally exposed to high or precarious places. Noise level is usually very loud.

Equal Opportunity and E‑Verify

Ceres Environmental is an Equal Opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability status, or protected veteran status.

We comply with federal law by verifying employment eligibility (E‑Verify).