Job Details
Location: Sarasota, FL 34240 / Depending on Project Location - United States
Position Type: Full Time Temporary
Salary Range: $30.00 - $40.00 Hourly
Job Category: Operational/ERD
Job Title: Knuckle Boom Truck Operator
Reports To: Project Manager
Other Compensation: Lodging, Per Diem, and Travel
Benefits
Comprehensive package including medical, 401(k) with company match, paid time off and travel opportunities.
Responsibilities
- Safely operate a knuckle boom truck to load and haul debris from designated pickup zones to approved disposal or staging sites.
- Maneuver boom arms, grapples, and attachments to lift, sort, and place debris efficiently.
- Perform pre-trip, in-route, and post-trip inspections on truck and boom equipment.
- Maintain accurate records including load tickets, routes, daily logs, and operational documentation.
- Identify and collect eligible debris according to project, FEMA, or municipal guidelines.
- Load debris to maximize truck capacity while ensuring safe transport.
- Work with ground crews, monitors, and project managers to ensure compliance and accuracy.
- Safely navigate residential areas, rural roads, and tight spaces.
- Follow all DOT regulations, company policies, and jobsite safety requirements.
- Use appropriate PPE and follow lockout and tagout and equipment safety protocols.
- Report mechanical issues, hazards, or incidents immediately.
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized equipment and work environment.
Required Qualifications
- Valid CDL Class A.
- Prior experience operating a knuckle boom truck or similar heavy equipment.
- Ability to operate hydraulic controls with precision.
- Clean driving record and ability to pass DOT physical and drug screening.
- Ability to work long shifts, including nights, weekends, and emergency deployments, with the ability to deploy on short notice.
- Physical ability to climb onto equipment, secure loads, and work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong situational awareness and commitment to safe operation.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in debris removal operations, disaster response, or municipal services.
- Knowledge of FEMA debris guidelines.
- Mechanical aptitude for minor equipment troubleshooting.
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
- Ability to sit for extended periods while driving or operating equipment.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed.
- Ability to climb steps onto equipment and maintain balance while operating hydraulic controls.
- Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, and post-storm environments.
- Willingness to wear required PPE, including hard hats, gloves, and protective eyewear.
- Exposure to heavy traffic, uneven terrain, noise, and debris-related hazards.
EEO Statement
Ceres Environmental Operations is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and affirmative action employer. Ceres provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants with sincerely held religious beliefs, as required by law.
Work Authorization
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Employment eligibility verification is required at the time of hire. Ceres does not sponsor employment-based visas unless stated otherwise. EVerify: We comply with federal law by verifying employment eligibility.