Heavy Equipment and Service Operator Grade 3 Job at Ceres Environmental Services

Heavy Equipment and Service Operator Grade 3

Join to apply for the Heavy Equipment and Service Operator Grade 3 role at Ceres Environmental Services, Inc.

Job Title: Heavy Equipment and Service Operator Grade 3

Location: Houston, TX

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports to: Site Manager

Compensation Range: $20–$25 hourly (based on experience and qualifications)

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

The Ground Up Commitment

TGU (The Ground Up, Inc.) has carved a niche for itself in the sustainable and green waste recycling sector, with a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation. TGU provides product to retail and wholesale markets, as well as operates as a significant support system for the Ceres emergency response division and operates out of Houston, Texas.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People

At The Ground Up, you’re more than an employee, you’re part of a team with purpose. Every role, from operations to delivery, plays a vital part in ensuring our customers receive the quality and service they depend on. We value initiative, hard work, and teamwork, while fostering a culture of reliability, respect, and growth. If you show up ready to work safely, contribute to the team, and take pride in a job well done, you’ll fit right in.

What We Are Looking For

The Equipment and Service Operator Grade 3 supports day-to-day operations of an assigned work site. The ideal candidate is skilled in safely and efficiently operating heavy equipment including excavators, loaders, horizontal and tub grinders which are stationed at a site to grind piles of vegetative debris into wood chips and mulch. The grinder reduces the material and then dumps the ground‑up wood into a waiting truck.

The grinder operator runs a large portable machine, which is equipped to grind whole trees, limbs, chunks and woody debris (“slash”), thereby turning the wood into chips or mulch. The grinder can process smaller whole trees or branches in a single motion. Improper or inattentive operation can result in an accident. Grinders can be equipped with additional features/attachments, such as a loading boom & grapple, debarker, chip.

Skills & Competencies

• Comply with the proper operation and maintenance of assigned equipment (forklift, wheel loader, backhoe loader, excavator, grinders or other heavy equipment).
• The operator safely controls the machine using buttons, pedals and levers to skillfully grind waste wood into usable wood chip products.
• Operators often work independently, following detailed work plans and specifications.
• Follow safe practices and rules while clearing and trimming trees and brush away from utility lines.
• Communicate safe machine and log movement activities using a radio.
• Responsible for basic machine service, refueling, diagnostics and minor repairs.
• Requires special safety gear, climbing off & onto the equipment, and some walking on uneven terrain.
• Operates heavy equipment both in warehouse and off-road.
• Manage inventory and quality control.
• Maintain a neat, clean and orderly work environment.
• Ensure proper use of personal protection equipment at all times.
• Other duties as assigned or needed.

Requirements

Essential Requirements

• HS diploma or GED.
• Minimum 10 years of experience as an equipment operator.
• Ability to operate a variety of heavy equipment efficiently and safely.
• 5+ years of work experience as a log loader operator or operator of forestry equipment; OR 10+ years of similar heavy equipment or previous experience operating farm machinery or heavy equipment.
• Must be able to read and comprehend verbal and written instructions.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Willing and available to work during all seasons of the year.
• Reliable transportation to get to and from worksites.
• Valid state issued driver's license.
• Clean driving record.

Desired Qualifications

• A good mechanical/mathematical aptitude as well as a general understanding of hydraulics.
• 10+ years of related experience.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Must have experience with Doppstadt, Vermeer, Diamond Z grinders or similar.
• Must be able to maintain the above listed grinders.

What To Expect

You’ll work in a fast‑paced, customer‑facing environment where your ability to multitask, communicate clearly, and stay organized will be key to success. You’ll be part of a team that values reliability, flexibility, and a positive attitude. Expect to grow your product knowledge and contribute to a supportive and environmentally conscious workplace.

Physical Requirement and Environment

The role is based in the bagging building and may involve exposure to dust, noise, and fluctuating temperatures. Work may also involve occasional outdoor conditions (heat, cold, wet). PPE such as gloves, safety glasses, and dust masks are provided and required. Occasional overtime or weekend shifts may be necessary during peak seasons.

Must be able to stand, walk, sit, climb, and balance in varying conditions. Must be able to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance and talk or hear. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Must have specific vision abilities to include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Ability to work in challenging environments including but not limited to adverse weather conditions, elevated spaces, confined spaces, extreme temperatures, exposure to mechanical parts, wet and/or humid conditions, high, precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, risk of electrical shock and vibration, and loud noise levels.

Commitment to following safety standards and protocols.

Why Join The Ground Up?

At TGU, your work supports a sustainable future and strengthens community resilience.

We Offer

• A collaborative, mission‑driven culture.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
• A chance to make a lasting environmental impact.

The Ground Up is an Equal Opportunity and Affimative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability status, or protected veteran status.