Yard Associate

Salary Range $13.00 - $15.00 Hourly

Position Type Full Time Regular

Category Operational/Non-ERD

Yard Associate

Job Title: Yard Associate

Location: Houston, Texas

Reports to: Production Supervisor

Compensation Range: $13-$15 per hour

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

About TGU

TGU (The Ground Up, Inc.) has carved a niche for itself in the sustainable and green waste recycling sector, with a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation. We provide products to retail and wholesale markets, while also supporting the Ceres emergency response division operations throughout Houston, Texas.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People

At TGU, we believe you're more than just an employee; you're part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. Whether in management, field operations, or behind the scenes, every team member plays a vital role in supporting sustainable practices and community resilience.

What We Are Looking For

The General Labor Associate provides support to the sales and customer service team on purchases related to stone and pavers. This role supports daily yard operations, equipment preparation, grounds maintenance, and customer service activities in a fast-paced outdoor environment. The ideal candidate will demonstrate dependability, initiative, flexibility, and a strong commitment to safety and customer service while working independently and as part of a team.

What You Will Do

• Perform scheduled fueling and lubrication services for field equipment, trucks, and construction machinery.

• Refill coolers throughout the yard with ice and water.

• Monitor and record mulch temperatures as required.

• Prepare trucks and equipment for daily operations and maintenance activities.

• Assist with grinder maintenance and general equipment upkeep.

• Maintain cleanliness of the yard by collecting and disposing of trash and debris.

• Operate loader equipment to remove and replace full trash containers.

• Perform grass cutting, landscaping, and general grounds maintenance.

• Clean and maintain machinery and equipment not currently in operation.

• Organize and maintain storage containers for machine parts, fluids, and supplies.

• Load customer vehicles with stone, pavers, and other bulk materials.

• Load and unload delivery trucks, trailers, and semi-trucks.

• Restock and organize product displays and materials as needed.

• Assist with overall yard organization, housekeeping, and operational readiness.

• Learn to safely operate skid steers, forklifts, and loaders; selected candidates with experience may perform equipment operator duties.

• Learn to operate company trucks with attached utility trailers and mini dumps; selected candidates with experience may perform driving duties.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 1 year of experience working outdoors.

• Must have basic writing, reading, and mathematical skills.

• Must have strong attention to detail and good verbal and written communication skills.

• Must be able to work the required shift hours and days, including Monday through Friday and rotating Saturdays.

• Must have reliable transportation to and from work.

• Must possess a valid state-issued driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred.

• Wholesale experience in stone, garden center, nursery, or farming operations preferred.

• Experience or education in horticulture, agriculture, or a related field preferred.

What to Expect

This position works primarily outdoors in a fast-paced yard environment supporting daily operations, customer service, equipment maintenance, and material handling activities. Employees should expect physically demanding work that includes lifting, standing, walking, operating equipment, and working in varying weather conditions. The role requires flexibility, teamwork, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

Physical Requirements and Environment

The Ground Up provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants with sincerely held religious beliefs, as required by law. The physical requirements listed below reflect the essential functions of this role.

• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the assigned shift.

• Must be able to safely lift, carry, push, and pull materials, products, and equipment with or without reasonable accommodation.

• May be required to lift 50 pounds or more on a regular basis with or without assistance.

• Must be able to bend, stoop, squat, crouch, balance, reach overhead, and perform repetitive hand movements.

• Specific vision abilities required include color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception.

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

• Must be able to work with daily exposure to dust, dirt, noise, and moving mechanical equipment.

• Commitment to following safety standards and protocols.

Why Join TGU?

At TGU, you won't just have a job; you'll have a mission. Your work will directly impact the efficiency and sustainability of our operations.

We offer:

• A collaborative, mission-driven culture.

• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

• The opportunity to make a lasting difference in sustainable practices and community support.

The Ground Up is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.

E-Verify: We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility.

Qualifications

Essential Requirements:

• HS diploma or GED

• Minimum 3 years of experience as an equipment operator

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Willing and available to work during all seasons of the year

• Reliable transportation to get to and from worksites

• Valid State issued driver's license

Desired Qualifications:

• A good mechanical/ mathematical aptitude as well as a general understanding of hydraulics