Equipment Operator I

Description

The Heavy Equipment Operator will safely operate loaders, trucks, and other heavy equipment to manufacture compost and other soil amendments, ensuring products are moved efficiently through shredders, grinders, and screens.

The role involves working outdoors in all weather conditions, with exposure to dirt, noise, odors and, at times, hazardous substances. Employees must use appropriate personal protective equipment and adhere to safety protocols while performing physically demanding tasks.

• Safely and effectively operate various forms of heavy equipment to move products and feed shredders, grinders, and screens
• Upload Daily Production Reports
• Safely load product onto roll off containers or walking floor trailers
• Perform daily maintenance and safety checks of equipment
• Maintain a clean and organized working environment
• Observe and comply with all applicable safety regulations, rules, policies, and procedures
• Report any safety concerns, hazards, or defects to site leadership
• Maintain collaborative relationships with drivers, operators, and coworkers
• Participate in external, department, and company‑wide trainings to increase skill sets
• Operate equipment with precision for loading, lifting, and transporting materials safely and efficiently
• Conduct pre‑operation inspections and perform minor maintenance
• Identify common mechanical issues and report malfunctions or damage for repairs
• Communicate effectively with team members and external customers
• Adjust methods or paths quickly based on terrain, obstructions, or material behavior
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hearing protection, safety‑toed boots, gloves, hard hat, reflective vest, and safety glasses
• Sit for extended periods while operating equipment and safely enter/exit machinery throughout the day
• Maintain manual dexterity and hand‑eye coordination to control machinery precisely
• Lift, push, pull, and carry up to 35 lb regularly and up to 50 lb with assistance

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• State‑issued driver’s license
• OSHA 10 or higher certificate preferred
• One year or more of related experience operating heavy equipment required
• Experience in the compost industry preferred
• Basic awareness of federal, state, and local job‑site health and safety rules and best practices
• Knowledge of load capacities, center of gravity, and safe lifting techniques to prevent tipping or damage
• Strong understanding of surroundings to operate safely near workers, vehicles, and obstacles
• Have auditory and visual acuity to monitor surroundings, equipment sounds, and safety signals
• Frequent walking, standing, bending, stooping, climbing, and kneeling in outdoor and uneven terrain
• Tolerance to strong odors, dust, humidity, and varying weather conditions

Benefits

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance