Equipment Operator - Excavator & Skid Steer

Job Details: Job Location: ERD - Sarasota, FL, Position Type: Full Time Temporary, Salary Range: $22.00 - $28.00Hourly, Travel Percentage: Road Warrior, Job Category: Operational/ERD, Job Title: Equipment Operator (Excavator & Skid Steer)

Location: On-site Project Location (Project location will be determined upon hiring)

Reports to: Field Supervisor / Project Manager

Compensation Range: $22-$28 hourly (depending on location, experience, skills, and qualifications)

Other Compensation: Eligible for a discretionary bonus

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

About Ceres Environmental Operations

Ceres Environmental Operations (CEO) is a leader in crisis management, rapid response, and disaster recovery, committed to rebuilding stronger, safer communities. We specialize in emergency response, environmental services, planning, and consulting, including debris removal, blue roofs, logistics, debris management, demolition, recycling, forest management, and coastal and marine restoration. As a licensed general contractor, we offer unparalleled expertise to restore stability where it’s needed most.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People

At CEO, we believe you’re more than just an employee; you’re part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. Every team member plays a vital role in restoring hope, helping communities recover and rebuild.

We value initiative, respect diversity, and give our people the freedom to lead. We offer competitive pay, travel opportunities, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork. If you show up with compassion, share the commitment, react with urgency, and deliver solutions, you’ll fit right in. We don’t just respond to challenges; we rise to them.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support field operations in disaster recovery environments. This role is responsible for operating excavators and skid steers to load, move, and manage debris and materials in support of project execution.

This position is part of field operations and does not typically manage personnel but is critical to production and safety. Success in the first 12 months includes safe and efficient equipment operation, productivity in debris removal activities, and willingness to support additional operational needs.

What You Will Do

Operate excavators and skid steers to load and unload materials such as vegetation, sediment, debris, and 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.

Required 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.

What to Expect

This is a field-based role working 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.
Willing to 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.

Why Join CEO?

At CEO, you won’t just have a job, you’ll have a mission. Your work will directly impact the speed and strength of community recovery after disasters.

We offer:

A collaborative, mission-driven culture.
Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
The chance to make a lasting difference for communities across the U.S.

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.
Qualifications: Minimum Qualifications:

Education: High School Diploma
Experience: 3-5 years of experience operating heavy equipment
Commercial Driver License: Class A or B
Valid Driver License

Preferred Qualifications:

Equipment repair or maintenance certifications/licensing
Equipment Operating licenses
Qualified Applicator License (QAL)
Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC)

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

Knowledge to operate and haul equipment in accordance with industry guidance and standards
Knowledge and ability to repair, refurbish or fix heavy equipment
Apply knowledge of new and emerging technologies and equipment to business operations
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