Operator Knuckleboom

Job Details: Job Location: ERD - Sarasota, FL, Position Type: Full Time Temporary, Salary Range: $30.00 - $40.00Hourly, Job Category: Operational/ERD, Job Title: Knuckle Boom Truck Operator

Location: Depending on Project Location - United States
Reports To: Project Manager
Compensation Range: $30-$40/hr
Other Compensation: Lodging, Per Diem, and Travel

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

About Ceres Environmental Operations (CEO)

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 is needed most.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People

At CEO, we believe you are more than just an employee. You are part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. Every team member plays a vital role in restoring hope and 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 will fit right in. We do not just respond to challenges. We rise to them.

What We Are Looking For

We are hiring several experienced Knuckle Boom Truck Operators to support debris removal and hauling operations following storms, disasters, and municipal cleanup projects. This role is essential to safe, timely, and efficient debris collection and contributes directly to restoring impacted communities.

What You Will Do

This is a field-based, hands-on role performed in varying environmental conditions, including post-storm areas with debris, traffic, and uneven terrain. You can expect to work long shifts, deal with challenging weather, and potentially be deployed in emergencies during disaster events. You must be able to deploy on short notice, travel to various locations, and stay for extended periods.

Daily work includes operating a knuckle boom truck, coordinating with ground crews and monitors, documenting loads, and safely navigating neighborhoods and rural roads. Strict adherence to safety protocols, PPE requirements, and DOT regulations is essential. While this position does not supervise personnel, it requires strong situational awareness, sound judgment, and clear communication.

Responsibilities

Equipment Operation

Safely operate a knuckle boom truck to load and haul debris from designated pickup zones to approved disposal or staging sites
Maneuver boom arms, grapples, and attachments to lift, sort, and place debris efficiently
Perform pre trip, in route, and post trip inspections on truck and boom equipment
Maintain accurate records including load tickets, routes, daily logs, and operational documentation

Debris Collection and Field Work

Identify and collect eligible debris according to project, FEMA, or municipal guidelines
Load debris to maximize truck capacity while ensuring safe transport
Work with ground crews, monitors, and project managers to ensure compliance and accuracy
Safely navigate residential areas, rural roads, and tight spaces

Safety and Compliance

Follow all DOT regulations, company policies, and jobsite safety requirements
Use appropriate PPE and follow lockout and tagout and equipment safety protocols
Report mechanical issues, hazards, or incidents immediately
Maintain clean, safe, and organized equipment and work environment

Required Qualifications

Valid CDL Class A
Prior experience operating a knuckle boom truck or similar heavy equipment
Ability to operate hydraulic controls with precision
Clean driving record and ability to pass DOT physical and drug screening
Ability to work long shifts, including nights, weekends, and emergency deployments, with the ability to deploy on short notice
Physical ability to climb onto equipment, secure loads, and work outdoors in all weather conditions
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Strong situational awareness and commitment to safe operation

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in debris removal operations, disaster response, or municipal services
Knowledge of FEMA debris guidelines
Mechanical aptitude for minor equipment troubleshooting

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

Ceres provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants with sincerely held religious beliefs, as required by law. Essential requirements may include:

Ability to sit for extended periods while driving or operating equipment
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed
Ability to climb steps onto equipment and maintain balance while operating hydraulic controls
Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, and post-storm environments
Willingness to wear required PPE, including hard hats, gloves, and protective eyewear
Exposure to heavy traffic, uneven terrain, noise, and debris-related hazards

Why Join CEO?

At CEO, you will not just have a job. You will have a mission. Your work directly supports 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 United States

Ceres Environmental Operations is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Employment eligibility verification is required at the time of hire. Ceres does not sponsor employment-based visas unless stated otherwise.

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

 
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