CDL Driver

Job Title: CDL Driver – Grapple Truck Operator
Location: Houston, Texas
Reports to: Field Supervisor / Project Manager
Compensation: $19–$28 per hour, depending on experience, skills, and qualifications
Benefits: Medical, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and other eligible benefits

About Ceres Environmental Operations

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’s needed most.

Driven by Purpose, Powered by People

At CEO, you’re more than an employee; you’re 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 empower our people to take ownership of their work. We offer competitive pay, opportunities for professional growth, and a culture built on resilience and teamwork. If you show up with compassion, share the commitment, react with urgency, and deliver solutions, you’ll fit right in.

What We Are Looking For

Ceres Environmental Operations is seeking a reliable, safety-conscious CDL Driver with hands-on Grapple Truck operating experience to support debris removal and environmental operations in the Houston, Texas area.

This is a full-time, local position focused on operating grapple trucks to collect, load, and transport storm debris, tree limbs, vegetation, and other approved materials. The ideal candidate has experience safely operating grapple equipment in residential areas, construction zones, and active job sites while maintaining efficient collection routes and meeting daily production goals.

Candidates must be comfortable working outdoors, following established safety procedures, and coordinating with field supervisors and ground crews. This position is intended for local Houston-area work rather than a travel-based storm deployment role.

What You Will Do

- Operate a grapple truck to collect, lift, load, and transport debris from designated collection areas and job sites.

- Safely operate hydraulic grapple equipment while working around vehicles, structures, utilities, pedestrians, and ground personnel.

- Drive assigned routes throughout the Houston area to support debris removal and environmental projects.

- Transport collected debris to designated staging areas, transfer stations, or disposal facilities.

- Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the truck, grapple assembly, hydraulic systems, and related equipment.

- Follow all applicable DOT regulations, company safety policies, and job-site procedures.

- Complete required driver logs, load tickets, inspection reports, and other project documentation.

- Communicate with supervisors and dispatch regarding route progress, equipment issues, safety concerns, and operational needs.

- Monitor vehicle and grapple performance and promptly report maintenance or repair requirements.

- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe vehicle and work area.

- Assist with related field operations as needed to support project completion.

Required Qualifications

- Valid CDL Class A or Class B license appropriate for the assigned vehicle.

- Demonstrated hands-on experience operating a grapple truck, including safe and effective use of hydraulic grapple equipment.

- Commercial driving experience with a strong emphasis on safe vehicle operation.

- Acceptable driving record and ability to meet applicable company and DOT requirements.

- Working knowledge of vehicle inspections, load handling, and safe operating procedures.

- Ability to work independently while communicating effectively with supervisors and field personnel.

- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and active job-site environments.

Preferred Qualifications

- Experience in storm debris removal, vegetation collection, tree debris hauling, or municipal waste operations.

- Experience operating grapple trucks in residential neighborhoods and other confined or congested areas.

- Previous experience in construction, environmental services, disaster recovery, or public works.

- Familiarity with hydraulic equipment inspections and basic troubleshooting.

- Knowledge of DOT compliance and commercial vehicle safety requirements.

What to Expect

This is a full-time, local Houston-area position supporting debris removal and environmental field operations. Drivers will work primarily in the field and may travel between multiple job sites throughout the local service area during a shift.

The work is physically demanding and requires extended periods of driving, frequent equipment operation, and exposure to outdoor conditions. Daily assignments and schedules may vary based on project needs, weather, and operational priorities.

Candidates should be dependable, safety-focused, and comfortable working in a production-oriented environment where efficient debris collection and proper equipment operation are essential.

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.

- Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

- Ability to climb in and out of a commercial truck cab and access equipment for inspections.

- Ability to sit, drive, and operate vehicle controls for extended periods.

- Ability to safely operate grapple controls and monitor equipment movement.

- Ability to work in outdoor conditions, including heat, dust, noise, uneven terrain, and changing weather.

- Willingness to wear required personal protective equipment, including hard hats, protective eyewear, steel-toed boots, and high-visibility gear.

- Ability to follow all safety procedures and remain aware of surrounding personnel and job-site hazards.

Why Join Ceres Environmental Operations?

At Ceres, you won't just have a job; you'll have a mission. Your work will help communities recover, restore essential services, and return to normal operations.

We offer:

- Competitive hourly compensation.

- Full-time employment opportunities.

- A collaborative, mission-driven work environment.

- Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

- The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Ceres does not sponsor employment-based visas for this position unless stated otherwise.

E-Verify: Ceres complies with federal law by verifying employment eligibility.