Operator Knuckleboom

Ceres Environmental Services, Inc.; Sarasota (FL); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Lodging

Per Diem

Travel

Job summary

Ceres Environmental Services, Inc. is seeking experienced Knuckle Boom Truck Operators for debris removal and hauling operations across disaster and municipal cleanup projects in the United States.

The role requires operating a knuckle boom truck in diverse environments, with long shifts and potential emergency deployments. Applicants must hold a valid CDL Class A, have prior knuckle boom experience, and be able to pass DOT physical and drug screening.

Qualifications

• Valid CDL Class A license with clean driving record.
• Experience operating a knuckle boom truck or similar heavy equipment.
• Ability to pass DOT physical and drug screening.
• Willingness to travel and deploy on short notice.
• Able to work long shifts outdoors in all weather.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate a knuckle boom truck to load and haul debris between pickup zones and disposal sites.
• Coordinate with ground crews and monitors; document loads and routes.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections; maintain logs and records.
• Follow DOT regulations and safety protocols; report issues promptly.

Skills

CDL Class A

Knuckle Boom Truck Operation

DOT compliance

Safety communications

Job description

Operator Knuckleboom# Operator KnuckleboomERD - Sarasota, FL 34240## OverviewPosition TypeFull Time TemporaryCategoryOperational/ERD## Knuckle Boom Truck Operator**Job Title:** Knuckle Boom Truck Operator **Location:** Depending on Project Location - United States **Reports To:** Project Manager **Compensation Range:** $30-$40/hr **Other Compensation:** Lodging, Per Diem, and Travel---**About Ceres Environmental Operations (CEO)**Ceres Environmental Operations (CEO) is a leader in crisis management, rapid response, and disaster recovery, committed to rebuilding stronger, safer communities. We specialize in emergency response, environmental services, planning, and consulting, including debris removal, blue roofs, logistics, debris management, demolition, recycling, forest management, and coastal and marine restoration. As a licensed general contractor, we offer unparalleled expertise to restore stability where it is needed most.---**Driven by Purpose, Powered by People**At CEO, we believe you are more than just an employee. You are part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. Every team member plays a vital role in restoring hope and helping communities recover and rebuild.We value initiative, respect diversity, and give our people the freedom to lead. We offer competitive pay, travel opportunities, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork. If you show up with compassion, share the commitment, react with urgency, and deliver solutions, you will fit right in. We do not just respond to challenges. We rise to them.---**What We Are Looking For**We are hiring several experienced Knuckle Boom Truck Operators to support debris removal and hauling operations following storms, disasters, and municipal cleanup projects. This role is essential to safe, timely, and efficient debris collection and contributes directly to restoring impacted communities.---**What You Will Do**This is a field based, hands on role performed in varying environmental conditions, including post storm areas with debris, traffic, and uneven terrain. You can expect to work long shifts, challenging weather, and the potential for emergency deployment during disaster events. You must be able to deploy with short notice, travel to different locations, and stay for extended periods of time.Daily work includes operating a knuckle boom truck, coordinating with ground crews and monitors, documenting loads, and safely navigating neighborhoods and rural roads. Strict adherence to safety protocols, PPE requirements, and DOT regulations is essential. While this position does not supervise personnel, it requires strong situational awareness, sound judgment, and clear communication.---**Responsibilities****Equipment Operation*** 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**Debris Collection and Field Work*** 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**Safety and Compliance*** 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**Ceres provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants with sincerely held religious beliefs, as required by law. Essential requirements may include:* 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* ---**Why Join CEO?**At CEO, you will not just have a job. You will have a mission. Your work directly supports community recovery after disasters.We offer:* A collaborative, mission driven culture* Opportunities for professional growth and advancement* The chance to make a lasting difference for communities across the United StatesCeres Environmental Operations is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.---**Work Authorization**Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Employment eligibility verification is required at hiring. Ceres does not sponsor employment based visas unless stated otherwise.**E Verify:** We comply with federal law by verifying employment eligibility.