Equipment Operator (Wheel Loader Operator) - Req. ID: 4219

About Company:

Denali is the leading organic recycling company on a mission to unlock the power of unused food and organics, transforming them into resources to feed, fuel and replenish the earth. Our work is essential to keeping water clean, reducing the need for new landfill capacity, building soil fertility, helping farmers be more resilient, and reducing society’s reliance on fossil fuels. Denali provides meaningful and measurable change for any business that handles food, creating value with our scalable solutions across the nation. Our services and products touch thousands of acres and businesses, millions of tons of organic material, and nearly every person who purchases and consumes food in the U.S. Apply to join our team today!

Standard Wheel Loader / Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Winston-Salem, NC
Job Site: 4010 Old Milwaukee Ln, Winston-Salem, NC
Employment Type: Full-Time / Hourly
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–4:30 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM, one Saturday per month

Compensation & Perks

$1,000 Annual Retention Bonus Competitive Weekly Pay
• 
  Quarterly Regional Raffle: $1,000 Prize per Region
Annual Regional Raffle: Four $5,000 Prizes Annual Apex Winner: $10,000 Prize

About the Role We are looking for a dependable Wheel Loader / Heavy Equipment Operator to join our Winston-Salem team. This position is primarily responsible for operating a wheel loader to safely and efficiently handle incoming and outgoing materials at our facility.

You will spend most of your day operating the loader, moving material, loading and unloading trucks, managing stockpiles, and keeping material flowing throughout the site. This is a hands-on position where equipment safety, reliability, and attention to detail are important.

This position also requires daily equipment upkeep and basic preventative maintenance , including greasing the machine, blowing out filters, completing daily inspections, and keeping the equipment clean and in good working condition. Good mechanical ability is a plus.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Safely operate a wheel loader and other heavy equipment as needed.
• Handle, move, load, and unload incoming and outgoing materials.
• Load trucks, trailers, hoppers, conveyors, stockpiles, and other designated areas.
• Move and organize material throughout the facility to maintain an efficient workflow.
• Manage stockpiles and assist with general site operations.
• Complete daily pre-shift and equipment inspections.
• Perform routine daily equipment maintenance, including:
  • Greasing equipment
  • Blowing out filters
  • Cleaning equipment
  • Checking fluid levels and other basic maintenance items
  • General daily machine upkeep
• Identify and report equipment problems, safety concerns, or needed repairs to management.
• Maintain the wheel loader and other equipment in a clean, safe, and operational condition.
• Safely operate equipment around employees, trucks, vehicles, and other machinery.
• Follow all company safety policies and applicable OSHA, DOT, and other regulatory requirements.
• Communicate with supervisors and coworkers to coordinate material movement and daily operations.
• Complete required inspection logs, maintenance records, and other paperwork accurately.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Work safely and efficiently in changing weather and outdoor conditions.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

• Previous experience operating a wheel loader, front-end loader, or similar heavy equipment preferred.
• Experience in construction, landfill, quarry, aggregate, recycling, industrial, or similar environments preferred.
• Mechanical ability or experience performing basic equipment maintenance is a plus.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment around people, vehicles, and other machinery.
• Ability to recognize equipment issues and communicate maintenance concerns.
• Strong awareness of workplace hazards and safe operating procedures.
• Dependable attendance and a strong work ethic.
• Ability to work independently while also working effectively with a team.
• Valid driver's license required.
• CDL is preferred but not required .
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

What We're Looking For

The right person for this position is someone who:

• Has experience running a wheel loader or similar heavy equipment.
• Takes pride in keeping their equipment clean and well maintained.
• Is comfortable performing daily greasing, filter cleaning, inspections, and general upkeep.
• Has good mechanical instincts and can recognize when something isn't operating correctly.
• Shows up on time and can be counted on to get the job done.
• Works safely and pays attention to their surroundings.
• Can work independently without needing constant supervision.

Work Environment

• Primarily an outdoor work environment.
• Exposure to dust, dirt, noise, vibration, moving equipment, and varying weather conditions.
• Work around trucks, heavy equipment, and material handling operations.
• Fast-paced environment where safe and efficient material movement is important.
• May require occasional overtime or schedule adjustments based on operational needs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit and operate heavy equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to safely climb into and out of heavy equipment multiple times throughout the day.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, climb, and reach as needed.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Ability to work outdoors in hot, cold, wet, and changing weather conditions.
• Ability to remain alert and focused while operating safety-sensitive equipment.

Why Join Us?

If you're an experienced equipment operator who takes pride in running a machine safely, keeping your equipment maintained, and getting the job done right , this is an opportunity to become an important part of our Winston-Salem operation.

What we offer: 

• Mission-driven work in a rapidly growing sustainability company
• Opportunities for professional growth and learning
• Collaborative, values-driven team culture
• Competitive salary and benefits

Why You’ll Love Working at Denali- Benefits & Perks 

At Denali, the work we do begins and ends with you – our employees. That's why we strive to ELEVATE you to be your best, both at work and at home. Our benefits aren’t just about compensation; they’re part of a broader commitment to helping you thrive in all aspects of life. Here’s how we live out our values every day: 

• E – Employee: At Denali, we believe in offering competitive compensation packages that include not only great benefits but also a strong focus on safety, flexibility, and rewards and recognition. You are the backbone of our success, and we make sure you’re valued every step of the way.
• L – Learning: We’re committed to your growth and development. Our Ascend Employee Development Program and access to over 6,000 professional courses via our Learning Management System empower you to climb higher in your career – all at no cost to you.
• E – Environment: Our employees deserve a clean Earth. We’re dedicated to doing our part in keeping waste out of landfills, so you can be proud of the work we do together to make a positive environmental impact.
• V – Valued: At Denali, we take pride in creating a culture of care. With resources that support your well-being, volunteerism opportunities, and a commitment to safe working conditions and inclusivity, you’ll always feel like you belong here.
• A – Advancement: We believe in succession planning and providing opportunities for advancement. We want you to grow, and we’ll be right there with you, supporting your career every step of the way.
• T – Together: We’re stronger when we work together. At Denali, you’ll have opportunities to give and receive support not just within the workplace, but within our broader community. Our team is united, and we celebrate the value of working and succeeding as one.
• E – Employees: You are the heart of Denali. We believe our employees deserve the very best. This is why we offer an array of benefits that support your overall well-being, from health coverage to work-life balance, because when you succeed, we all succeed.

Our Benefits Package Includes: 

• Comprehensive Medical: Our self-insured medical plans are designed with your health in mind, offering competitive options including copay and HSA plans so you can choose what best suit your health needs.
• Dental & Vision: Keep your smile bright and your vision clear with full coverage for you and your family.
• Generous 401(k) Match: We’re here for your long-term future – we offer a generous 401(k) match of up to 4%, helping you build the foundation for tomorrow.
• Company-Paid Disability & Life Insurance: We’ve got you covered with company-paid Long-Term and Short-Term Disability, as well as AD&D and Life Insurance, giving you peace of mind knowing you’re protected.
• Voluntary Life for Employees & Family: Customize additional coverage for you and your loved ones with our voluntary life insurance options.
• Health Savings Plan:  Save on medical expenses with a Health Savings Plan designed for your needs.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & Sick Time: We value your well-being. Take time for yourself, your family, and personal matters with generous PTO and Sick Time, including family leave.
• 9 Paid Holidays: Enjoy a well-rounded work-life balance with 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
• Paid Weekly: We believe in rewarding hard work consistently, which is why we offer weekly pay so you can stay on top of your financial goals.
• Professional Development:  Ascend in your career with free access to thousands of courses that allow you to grow and develop professionally.
• Employee Assistance Program: Life can be challenging at times, and we’re here to support you with our confidential Employee Assistance Program that offers counseling and resources for a variety of personal and professional needs.
• Wellness Program: At Denali, we believe that well-being goes beyond health coverage. Our Wellness Program offers resources to keep you mentally, physically, and emotionally balanced as you climb higher in both life and career.

We want you to feel valued, supported, and equipped for success – because when you thrive, we all thrive. So, come for benefits. Stay for the culture. We can’t wait to see you reach new heights with us at Denali. 

Apply to join our team today!

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy: It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities for all employees. Accordingly, the Company will not engage in any form of employment discrimination based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. The Company hereby affirms its desire to maintain a work environment for all employees that is free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination. 

Compensation details: 20-22 Hourly Wage

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