Pond Maintenance Machine Operator
Location: Saluda Hill Landscapes
Lexington, SC
Pay: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour (Based on Experience) Reports to: Pond Maintenance Foreman
Full-Time Position
Primarily outdoor work with daily travel to commercial properties throughout the region. This position requires operating specialized equipment on steep slopes, uneven terrain, and around bodies of water.
Company Overview
Saluda Hill Landscapes, founded in 1991, is an award-winning landscaping company recognized as one of the 2026 SC Top Workplaces. We are dedicated to creating exceptional outdoor spaces while fostering a supportive and trusting workplace culture. Our commitment to employee growth, safety, and quality workmanship has established us as a leader in the landscape industry.
Position Summary
Saluda Hill Landscapes is seeking an experienced, safety-focused Pond Maintenance Machine Operator to join our Grounds Maintenance Division. This position is responsible for operating specialized mowing and vegetation management equipment used to maintain retention ponds, stormwater facilities, embankments, and other challenging landscapes.
This role requires a high level of machine operating skill, sound judgment, and confidence working on steep slopes and uneven terrain. The ideal candidate understands that safety, precision, and equipment control are critical to protecting themselves, their teammates, client property, and the equipment.
Key Responsibilities
Pond and Stormwater Facility Maintenance
- Perform routine maintenance of retention ponds, detention ponds, drainage channels, and stormwater facilities.
- Mow and maintain steep embankments, pond banks, and difficult terrain using specialized equipment.
- Remove overgrown vegetation while preserving the integrity of stormwater infrastructure.
- Inspect work areas for hazards prior to beginning operations.
Specialized Equipment Operation - Safely operate slope mowers, articulating tractors, skid steers, excavators, compact equipment, and other specialized machinery.
- Demonstrate advanced machine control while operating on sloped and uneven terrain.
- Adjust operating techniques based on weather, soil conditions, and terrain.
- Conduct daily pre-trip and post-operation inspections.
- Clean, maintain, and report equipment maintenance needs promptly.
Safety and Risk Management - Follow all company safety policies and OSHA standards.
- Evaluate job sites before beginning work and identify potential hazards such as soft ground, erosion, underground utilities, hidden obstacles, wildlife, and changing weather conditions.
- Utilize appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
- Stop work immediately if operating conditions become unsafe.
- Maintain constant awareness of crew members and surrounding property while operating equipment.
Operations Support - Follow daily schedules and work assignments provided by supervisors.
- Assist with transporting equipment and materials to job sites.
- Work efficiently to meet productivity goals while maintaining exceptional quality.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors and fellow crew members.
- Assist with additional maintenance duties as needed.
Qualifications
Required
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Experience operating commercial landscape or construction equipment.
- Ability to safely work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Ability to walk uneven terrain, climb slopes, lift up to 50 pounds, and work extended hours as needed.
- Strong situational awareness and commitment to safety.
- Dependable attendance and positive attitude.
Preferred - Two or more years of commercial equipment operation experience.
- Experience operating slope mowers or remote-controlled mowing equipment.
- Experience maintaining retention ponds, stormwater systems, rights-of-way, or utility easements.
- CDL or ability to obtain one.
- Experience hauling trailers and heavy equipment.
- Knowledge of basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
- OSHA 10 certification or similar safety training.
Company Culture and Character Expectations
Our company cultivates a culture of collaboration, accountability, and integrity. We value team members who consistently demonstrate professionalism, sound judgment, and a commitment to doing the right thing—even when no one is watching.
Successful team members communicate respectfully, support one another, take ownership of their responsibilities, and represent Saluda Hill Landscapes with pride. We believe our reputation is built by employees who deliver exceptional service while treating coworkers, clients, and the public with respect.
Safety Expectations
Safety is the highest priority for this position.
Operating equipment on steep slopes and around water presents unique hazards that require constant awareness and sound decision-making. Operators are expected to:
- Perform thorough equipment inspections before each shift.
- Conduct site hazard assessments before operating equipment.
- Follow all manufacturer operating guidelines.
- Wear required PPE at all times.
- Never operate equipment beyond safe operating limits.
- Immediately report unsafe conditions, accidents, or equipment concerns.
- Participate in ongoing safety training and operational development.
Every operator has the authority and responsibility to stop work whenever conditions become unsafe.
Benefits
- Health Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Holiday Pay
- Professional Development Assistance
- Profit Sharing
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