Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator (Front-End Loader)

This entry-level Equipment Operator role focuses on safely and efficiently operating forklifts and performing general labor tasks to support bulk and packaged commodity handling. You will help load and unload barges, railcars, trucks, and storage facilities while following established policies, procedures, and safety standards. Under the close supervision of a lead operator or supervisor, you will receive extensive hands-on training in railcar and truck loading, warehousing, bagging, vessel operations, safety, and environmental practices, and you may rotate through various operational areas across the terminal.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment safely and efficiently to load and unload bulk and packaged commodities from barges, railcars, trucks, and storage facilities.
• Follow all established safety procedures, environmental guidelines, and company policies while performing daily tasks.
• Assist with bulk material transfer, including moving, staging, and organizing materials as directed.
• Support bagging operations by helping package, label, and prepare materials for storage or shipment.
• Perform general warehousing duties such as stacking, storing, and retrieving materials in an organized and safe manner.
• Assist with vessel operations as needed, including loading and unloading materials and securing cargo.
• Carry out general maintenance and basic upkeep tasks on equipment and work areas as directed by supervisors.
• Maintain a clean and orderly work environment by performing housekeeping activities such as sweeping, shoveling, and debris removal.
• Work under the close supervision of a lead operator or supervisor and follow instructions precisely to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Participate actively in safety and environmental training sessions and apply the training consistently in daily work.
• Report equipment issues, safety concerns, and operational problems promptly to supervisors.
• Adapt to different assignments across all areas of terminal operations, including rail, truck, warehousing, bagging, and vessel activities.

Essential Skills

• Proven ability to operate forklifts safely and effectively, with at least 2+ years of forklift experience.
• Experience using front-end loaders or similar heavy equipment in an industrial, construction, or terminal environment.
• Demonstrated capability to perform general labor tasks in outdoor and physically demanding conditions.
• Strong awareness of safety practices and willingness to follow all safety and environmental procedures.
• Ability to work under close supervision and follow detailed instructions from lead operators or supervisors.
• Willingness to perform housekeeping, maintenance support, and other manual tasks as part of daily responsibilities.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality for scheduled shifts.
• Capacity to work in dusty, muddy, and dirty environments while maintaining focus on safety and quality.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience operating mini excavators is highly desirable and considered a strong asset.
• Crane operation exposure or experience is a significant plus and supports long-term career growth.
• Experience with excavators, dozers, backhoes, skid steers, or other heavy equipment operations.
• Previous experience in construction, excavation, or heavy equipment operation environments.
• Interest in developing advanced equipment skills, including crane operation, as part of long-term career progression.
• Comfort working around barges, railcars, trucks, and industrial terminal facilities.

Why Work Here?

You will join a team that invests in your development through extensive on-the-job training and clear opportunities for advancement into more complex equipment and terminal operations. The role offers strong benefits, including a 401(k) and personal retirement plan, and the potential to significantly increase your earnings through overtime. You will build a long-term career path in heavy equipment and terminal operations, with room for growth and the chance to develop high-value skills that support your future.

Work Environment

This role is based in an outdoor industrial terminal environment that can be dirty, muddy, and dusty. You will work around barges, railcars, trucks, storage facilities, and heavy equipment on a regular basis. The standard schedule runs from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with overtime opportunities as operational needs require. You will frequently work on uneven surfaces, in varying weather conditions, and in areas where heavy machinery and vehicles operate, requiring consistent use of appropriate work attire and personal protective equipment.

Job Type & Location: This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Palmetto, FL.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $22.00 - $23.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type: This is a fully onsite position in Palmetto, FL.

Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Jul 12, 2026.