Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Title Equipment Operator (Excavator & Skid Steer) Job Location Sarasota, FL 34240 (On‑site project location; determined upon hiring) Position Type & Compensation Full‑Time Temporary $22.00 - $28.00 hourly salary (location, experience, skills, qualifications) Eligible for discretionary bonus Benefits Comprehensive package including medical, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and travel opportunities Responsibilities Operate excavators and skid steers to load and unload materials (vegetation, sediment, debris, storm‑related waste). Perform site clearing, grading, and material movement activities. Inspect equipment daily and report maintenance or safety issues. Follow project plans and supervisor instructions to complete assigned tasks. Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and company safety standards. Maintain equipment cleanliness and operational readiness. Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members. Support staging and logistics operations as needed. Assist with general labor tasks when equipment is not in use. Demonstrate willingness to operate other pieces of equipment when needed. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. 2+ years of experience operating excavators and/or skid steers. Proven ability to safely handle and move heavy materials. Valid driver’s license. Ability to work in physically demanding outdoor environments. Preferred Qualifications Experience in disaster recovery or environmental services. OSHA certification (10 or 30‑hour). Experience operating multiple types of heavy equipment. CDL license preferred. Equipment repair or maintenance certifications/licensing. Equipment operating licenses. Qualified Applicator License (QAL). Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC). Knowledge of new and emerging technologies and equipment. Knowledge to operate and haul equipment in accordance with industry guidance and standards. Ability to repair, refurbish, or fix heavy equipment. Ability to receive direction or guidance. Ability to work within a team. Ability to communicate well with others. Problem solving skills. Recognition of safety hazards. What to Expect This field‑based role is at active project sites with changing conditions. Work involves long hours, travel, and exposure to weather and debris environments. You will work closely with a team under tight timelines where safety and adaptability are essential. Flexibility is required to support evolving operational needs. Physical Requirements and Environment Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation. Willingly wear PPE, including a hard hat, protective eyewear, and steel‑toed boots. Ability to work in adverse weather and field conditions. Exposure to heavy equipment, moving machinery, and varying terrain. Commitment to following safety standards and protocols. Work Authorization Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Ceres does not sponsor employment‑based visas for this position unless stated otherwise. E‑Verify: We comply with Federal law by verifying employment eligibility. #J-18808-Ljbffr