Equipment Operator (Wheel Loader Operator) - Req. ID: 4225

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: Huntersville, NC
Schedule: First Shift | Full-Time
Pay: Hourly | Competitive Weekly Pay

Compensation & Perks

• $1,000 Annual Retention Bonus
• Competitive weekly pay
• 
  
  • Quarterly Regional Raffle: $1,000 Prize per Region
  • Annual Regional Raffle: Four $5,000 Winners
  • Annual Apex Winner: $10,000 Prize

Position Summary

We are looking for a Standard Wheel Loader / Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team in Huntersville, NC.

This is a first-shift, outdoor position where your primary responsibility will be operating a wheel loader to move feedstocks and materials around the site . You may also operate other heavy equipment as needed to support daily operations.

This is a hands-on position for someone who is comfortable working outdoors, operating heavy equipment, and doing physical work in a fast-paced industrial environment. The right candidate will take safety seriously, keep equipment running efficiently, and help keep materials moving throughout the site.

What You'll Do

• Operate a wheel loader safely and efficiently to move feedstocks and materials throughout the site.
• Operate other heavy equipment as needed based on daily operations and business needs.
• Load, move, and place materials in designated areas, stockpiles, hoppers, or processing areas.
• Maintain proper material flow to support daily production and site operations.
• Monitor equipment operation and report mechanical problems, damage, or safety concerns to management.
• Complete daily equipment inspections and report any issues before or during operation.
• Perform basic equipment care, cleaning, and preventative maintenance as directed.
• Maintain safe distances and awareness around coworkers, trucks, vehicles, and other heavy equipment.
• Assist with stockpile management, site cleanup, material handling, and general site activities.
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of unnecessary hazards.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and operating standards.
• Follow applicable OSHA, DOT, and other required safety regulations.
• Complete required inspection logs, paperwork, and other documentation.
• Work with supervisors and other team members to keep daily operations moving efficiently.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

What We're Looking For

• Previous wheel loader or front-end loader experience preferred .
• Heavy equipment operating experience is strongly preferred.
• Experience in construction, quarry, landfill, aggregate, recycling, industrial, agricultural, or similar environments is a plus.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment around people, trucks, and other machinery.
• Ability to work outdoors every day in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to recognize equipment problems and communicate maintenance concerns.
• Dependable attendance and a strong work ethic.
• Ability to follow instructions and safety procedures.
• Ability to work independently while also being part of a team.
• Basic mechanical knowledge is a plus.
• Valid driver's license required. CDL may be preferred depending on operational requirements.

Work Environment

This is an outdoor, industrial work environment . You should be comfortable working around:

• Dust and dirt
• Noise and vibration
• Heavy machinery
• Moving trucks and equipment
• Varying weather conditions
• Materials and feedstocks
• Uneven terrain

The position requires working outside daily and may involve overtime, weekends, or extended hours based on operational needs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit and operate heavy equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to safely climb in and out of heavy equipment throughout the workday.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and climb as needed.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds when required.
• Ability to perform physical labor around the job site as needed.
• Ability to remain alert and focused while operating heavy equipment in a safety-sensitive environment.

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.