Yard Laborer/Equipment Operator Trainee

About the Job

American Property Experts (APE) is a vegetative debris recycling company turning land-clearing debris, tree waste, and yard waste into mulch and other usable products. We're looking for a dependable, hard-working yard laborer who wants a real career path into heavy equipment operation. You'll start on the ground, helping keep the yard and grinding operation running. As you prove yourself, we'll train you on our equipment, and your pay will grow with your skills.

No equipment experience? No problem. If you show up on time, work safely, and want to learn, we'll teach you.

What You'll Do

• Work on the ground around the grinders, helping keep material flowing and the site running safely
• Remove contaminants (trash, metal, rock, and other non-wood material) from incoming debris
• Spot and signal operators, and assist with truck unloading and loading
• Clean up around equipment and keep walkways, work areas, and the yard orderly
• Rake, shovel, and manage piles of ground material and finished product
• Help with daily equipment checks, greasing, fueling, and basic maintenance, including changing grinder teeth and hammers as you gain experience
• Shadow experienced operators and train on our equipment:
• Front-end loaders
• Excavators
• Bulldozers
• Tub grinders and horizontal grinders
• Follow all safety rules, site procedures, and fire prevention practices

What We're Looking For

Required:

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather, including heat, cold, rain, and dusty conditions
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and do physical work for a full shift
• Reliable transportation and a strong attendance record
• Willingness to learn, take direction, and put safety first
• Ability to pass a drug screen and background check
• Valid driver's license
• Pre-employment drug screen

Preferred (not required):

• Experience in construction, landscaping, tree service, farming, or similar work
• Familiarity with hand tools or small equipment
• Mechanical or welding aptitude
• Previous heavy equipment experience or certifications
• CDL

What We Offer

• Paid on-the-job equipment training
• Clear path to operator pay rates as you earn each machine
• Health insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) / retirement plan
• Overtime availability, especially during peak mulch and storm seasons
• A team that values safety and promotes from within

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-5:00 PM | Occasional Saturdays as needed

Work Environment

This is physically demanding outdoor work around large, loud machinery. Hearing protection, hard hat, safety glasses, high-visibility clothing, and steel-toe boots are required on site.

How to Apply

Apply in person at 606 Sunnyvale Dr, Wilmington, NC 28412, call 910.793.1460, or email [email protected] with your name, resume, and a brief note about your work experience.

American Property Experts is an equal opportunity employer.

Pay: $15.00 - $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person