Knuckle Boom Truck Operator

Overview

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

About 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 expertise to restore stability where it’s needed most.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People. At CEO, you’re part of a team with a purpose and a meaningful mission. We value initiative, respect diversity, and offer opportunities for leadership. We provide competitive pay, travel opportunities, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork.

We’re 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.

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, challenging weather, and the potential for emergency deployment during disaster events. You must be able to deploy with short notice, travel to different locations, and stay for extended periods of time.

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 are essential. While this position does not supervise personnel, it requires strong situational awareness, sound judgment, and clear communication.

• 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 & 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 & Compliance
  • Follow all DOT regulations, company policies, and jobsite safety requirements.
  • Use appropriate PPE and follow lock‑out/tag‑out and equipment safety protocols.
  • Report mechanical issues, hazards, or incidents immediately.
  • Maintain clean, safe, and organized equipment and work environment.

• 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 with 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.

• Experience in debris‑removal operations, disaster response, or municipal services.
• Knowledge of FEMA debris guidelines (if applicable).
• Mechanical aptitude for minor equipment troubleshooting.

Ceres provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities…