Position Overview:

The Equipment Operator is responsible for running equipment on small to large scale ecological restoration projects throughout the state of Minnesota and throughout the Midwest. The operator position will be heavily involved in vegetation mowing on solar projects during the growing season. This position may also include a variety of other equipment operation and labor tasks as needed during the remainder of the year.

Individuals applying for this position should expect significant overnight travel during the growing season (May through September). Travel includes overnight per diems for lodging and food. Individuals should expect increased hours, including overtime, during the growing season. This position may also include a variety of other equipment operation as needed during the remainder of the year. This position requires equipment operation and strong communication skills with MNL field staff and customers to carry out project tasks both accurately and safely from start to finish.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strong ability to follow directions from Project Managers/ Project Superintendents regarding schedules and site work expectations.
• Conducts tasks involved with successfully installing small to large scale restoration projects, including but not limited to burning, site preparation, spraying, mowing, erosion control, and forestry operations.
• Completes a variety of restoration duties utilizing various types of equipment, such as tractors, skid loaders, 3pt implements, hand tools, ATV/UTVs, mowers, etc.
• Completes a variety of restoration duties, utilizing large equipment such as dozers, excavators, off road trucks, forestry equipment, etc.
• Performs tree shearing skidding or forestry mowing with skid-loader mounted implements.
• Performs necessary equipment repairs in the field and shop as able/necessary.
• Trucking/transport of equipment as needed.
• Daily communication with field staff on job tasks.
• Train other field staff on equipment operation as needed.
• Performs other non-operating duties as assigned.
• Maintains work records and associated paperwork, including daily worklogs and herbicide treatments.

Required Qualifications:

• 2+ years of experience working in landscaping or agriculture.
• Ability to work independently and in a group.
• Experience with general maintenance and minor repair of vehicles, equipment, and tools such as tractors, mowers, pumps, sprayers, small engines, and trailers.
• Ability to read and navigate maps, as well as accurately follow directions.
• Must have an un-restricted class A CDL driver's license and have an insurable driving record.
• Willing to acquire a commercial pesticide applicator license (paid for by MNL).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, make sound decisions, and problem solve effectively.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic computer knowledge, including use of a smart phone.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience completing a variety of restoration duties, utilizing equipment such tractors, skidloaders, flail mowers and forestry equipment.
• Familiarity with or experience in ecological restoration work, especially equipment operation for restoration purposes.
• CDL holder for over 2 years.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Able to bend, stretch, push, pull, reach and move as needed in order to complete various vegetation management duties.
• Prolonged periods of time standing.
• Able to work long hours, including early mornings, late evenings, and occasional weekends; work hours may be reduced during the winter season.
• Able to travel daily to various worksites within the state with overnight stays required.
• Able to travel out of state as needed.
• Must be able to work in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat and extreme cold.

What we offer:

MNL offers a flexible workplace. New and extended learning opportunities. MNL is willing to train the right candidate that aligns with our core values and want to help us heal the earth. MNL offers the highest wages in the industry.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature of this job. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all requirements for this position, nor does it constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee. It is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.