Equipment Operator

Job Title:

Equipment Operator Job Description The Equipment Operator performs safe, efficient, and quality-focused operation of forklifts and other heavy equipment to load and unload bulk and packaged commodities from barges, railcars, trucks, and storage facilities. This entry-level role works under close supervision and supports a wide range of terminal operations, including warehousing, bagging, bulk material transfer, and general labor tasks. The position includes extensive training in railcar and truck operations, warehousing, bagging, vessel operations, and safety and environmental procedures. Responsibilities Operate forklifts and other heavy equipment to safely load and unload bulk and packaged commodities from barges, railcars, trucks, and storage facilities. Follow all safety, environmental, and operational procedures to ensure compliant and efficient terminal operations. Support warehousing activities, including receiving, storing, staging, and moving materials as directed. Assist with bulk material transfer, including loading, unloading, and moving materials between storage and transportation equipment. Perform bagging operations as needed, ensuring accurate, clean, and efficient handling of packaged products. Carry out general labor and housekeeping duties to maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas, both indoors and outdoors. Assist with general maintenance tasks on equipment and facilities as directed by the lead operator or supervisor. Work under the close supervision of a lead operator or supervisor, following instructions and asking questions to ensure tasks are completed correctly. Participate in extensive training in railcar, truck, warehousing, bagging, vessel operations, and safety and environmental practices. Collaborate with team members and supervisors to ensure that work meets or exceeds operational standards and expectations. Essential Skills At least 2 years of forklift operating experience. Proficiency in operating forklifts in a safe, efficient, and controlled manner. Ability to perform general labor tasks in a physically demanding, outdoor environment. Strong focus on safety and adherence to operational procedures and guidelines. Ability to follow detailed instructions and work effectively under close supervision. Basic understanding of equipment operation and material handling in an industrial or construction setting. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience operating mini excavators or cranes is a strong plus. Background in operating heavy equipment such as excavators, dozers, backhoes, skid steers, and other construction or heavy equipment. Experience in excavation, earthmoving, or construction environments. Good excavator operating skills that can support future development in crane operation. Interest in learning railcar, truck, warehousing, bagging, and vessel operations. Willingness to complete safety and environmental training and apply it consistently on the job. Why Work Here? Employees benefit from a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement options such as a 401(k) and a personal retirement plan. The organization offers significant earning potential through overtime, with strong performers able to substantially increase their income. There is clear room for growth, with opportunities to develop advanced heavy equipment skills and progress into more specialized operational roles over time. The culture values safety, training, and long-term career development, providing a stable environment for those who want to build a lasting career in equipment and terminal operations. Work Environment This role is primarily outdoors in a terminal setting and involves working in dirty, muddy, and dusty conditions. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with the potential for additional hours as operational needs require. Work takes place around barges, railcars, trucks, and storage facilities, using forklifts and other heavy equipment such as loaders, excavators, and similar machinery. The environment is physically demanding and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, noise, and industrial activity, requiring appropriate work attire and personal protective equipment suitable for outdoor, heavy industrial work. 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 May 22, 2026. About Aerotek We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.