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Bulk Terminal Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Wheel Loader/Terminal Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

This position carries a variety of responsibilities, which includes operating a front-end loader to ... This job is primarily responsible for working at facilities that unload barges of bulk and/or break ...

$85 - $125/hr

Since 1970 Plastic Express has met the bulk trucking, bulk terminal, packaging, and warehousing ... Communicate effectively with customers, railroads, local operating authorities, and internal ...

Operator - Ghent, KY

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... bulk materials and other cargo between trucks, railcars, vessels, barges, and storage areas in ...

Operator - Ghent, KY

Ghent, KY · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals ... bulk materials and other cargo between trucks, railcars, vessels, barges, and storage areas in ...

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Bulk Terminal Operator information

What is a bulk terminal operator?

Bulk terminal operators are professionals responsible for managing the loading, unloading, storage, and transfer of bulk materials such as grains, coal, minerals, or liquids at specialized terminal facilities. They operate and maintain equipment like conveyors, cranes, and pumps to ensure the safe and efficient movement of cargo between ships, trucks, trains, or storage units. Their duties also include monitoring inventory, adhering to safety regulations, and coordinating with logistics teams to optimize terminal operations. Bulk terminal operators play a crucial role in the supply chain, supporting industries that rely on large-scale material handling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bulk terminal operator?

To thrive as a Bulk Terminal Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional training in hazardous materials or industrial operations often preferred. Familiarity with terminal management systems, conveyor operations, and equipment such as forklifts and loaders is typically required, and certifications in OSHA safety or hazardous materials handling can be advantageous. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help operators coordinate with colleagues and respond to operational issues efficiently. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient terminal operations and minimizing risk in environments handling bulk materials.

What are some common challenges faced by bulk terminal operators, and how can new hires effectively address them?

Bulk Terminal Operators often face challenges such as coordinating the safe and efficient movement of large quantities of materials, adhering to strict safety protocols, and managing equipment maintenance. New hires can address these challenges by thoroughly familiarizing themselves with operational procedures, proactively communicating with team members and supervisors, and participating in ongoing safety and equipment training. Building strong attention to detail and a collaborative mindset will help ensure both personal and team success in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Bulk Terminal Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectBulk Terminal OperatorCrane Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, equipment operation trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, crane operation licenses
Work EnvironmentPorts, terminals, industrial sites handling bulk materialsConstruction sites, ports, industrial facilities operating cranes
Industry UsageShipping, logistics, bulk material handlingConstruction, shipping, manufacturing
Job FocusManaging bulk material loading/unloading, equipment operationOperating cranes for lifting and moving heavy loads

Bulk Terminal Operators and Crane Operators both work in port and industrial environments, often requiring similar certifications. However, Bulk Terminal Operators focus on managing bulk material handling and equipment operation, while Crane Operators specialize in operating cranes for lifting heavy loads. Both roles are essential in logistics and shipping industries, but their specific duties and focus areas differ.

What are popular job titles related to Bulk Terminal Operator jobs in Kentucky?

For Bulk Terminal Operator jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bulk Terminal Operator jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Bulk Terminal Operator jobs in Kentucky are:

Infographic showing various Bulk Terminal Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Wheel Loader/Terminal Operator

Louisville, KY

$16 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Thank you for your interest in joining our team! At CGB, you can contribute to meaningful work, grow professionally and personally, and belong in a place where everyone has a voice.

Founded in 1969, CGB Enterprises, Inc. is known as an innovative and progressive leader in the grain and transportation industries. Today, CGB operates an enterprise with over 100 locations and nearly 2,000 U.S. employees overseeing a diverse family of businesses that provide an array of services for producers and logistics services for an international base of customers. The combination of our assets provides a growing organization that is celebrating over 50 years of strength and stability!

This position carries a variety of responsibilities, which includes operating a front-end loader to load trucks with granular fertilizer and conducting various maintenance/housekeeping jobs as instructed. The typical hours are 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM with some extended hours and weekend work.
This job is primarily responsible for working at facilities that unload barges of bulk and/or break bulk products. This job performs a wide variety of duties that are based on the daily needs of the operation.

In this job, you will:

Actual responsibilities will vary depending on daily needs and type of facility.

  • Fully participate in the company Safety Program and attends daily pre-shift meetings.
  • Perform all duties within compliance of OSHA, company safety, and environmental regulations (ISO where applicable); including wearing appropriate PPE for task being performed.
  • Perform deckhand responsibilities e.g., properly securing barges, reading drafts, opening, closing, removing and placement of lids, tying off barges, etc.
  • Operate a skid loader inside of barge during final stage of barge unloading process.
  • Set up and perform the operation of conveyor system(s), where applicable.
  • Ensure the correct product is directed to the correct storage area, where applicable.
  • Perform clean-up of barge once unload is completed by sweeping and/or shoveling.
  • Perform the loading of railcars and trucks to specifications, where applicable.
  • Complete documentation timely, accurately and legibly.
  • Operate a variety of heavy equipment and perform PM, where applicable.
  • Other duties as assigned; including assisting in the general housekeeping of entire work area.

Here's what you'll need to be considered:

Education

Required - High school diploma or equivalent, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

Required - None.

Preferred - 1 years' experience working in an industrial environment with a dependable work record.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Basic mathematical skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide).
  • Effective interpersonal, oral and written communication skills with the ability to interact with all levels of people within and outside the organization.
  • Ability to complete documentation requirements.
  • Able to follow direction and to use logical thought process to interpret oral and written instructions and troubleshoot problems.
  • Ability to work well both independently and within a team environment.
  • Ability to use tools appropriate for assigned task.
  • Ability to remain focused on exceptional customer service, both internally and externally.

Here's additional information you need to know:

Physical Demands & Requirements

The physical demands and requirements frequencies of this job may vary depending on the specific location and operational needs as well as other factors.

  • Ability to balance constantly/continuously.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, twist, crouch, crawl, kneel and squat (constantly/continuously) frequently.
  • Ability to (frequently) climb stairs and climb ladders (and work at) to significant heights.
  • Ability to concentrate on task without becoming distracted, constantly/continuously.
  • Ability to distinguish grade, color, odor and various damage characteristics in grain samples. (at some facilities)
  • Ability to distinguish, with a degree of accuracy, differences or similarities in intensity or quality odors, or recognizing
  • particular odors, using nose.
  • Ability to enter information into a computer (observations, other computers).
  • Ability to grasp and reach frequently.
  • Ability to lift/push/pull 50 lbs. occasionally to continuously depending on daily needs of location.
  • Ability to meet requirement of and utilize all applicable PPE, when applicable.
  • Ability to meet requirements of PFT and fit testing, when applicable.
  • Ability to pass all required testing under FRA and DOT for this position (where applicable).
  • Ability to perform work in confined spaces.
  • Ability to safely walk on barge surface(s) with the ability to work around (deep/swift) water.
  • Ability to stand and walk constantly/continuously.
  • Ability to understand and communicate verbally, in person and over two-way radio (and recognize emergency alarms).
  • Ability to understand and communicate written instructions.
  • Ability to walk safely on top of railcars, open gates, operate vibrators etc., where applicable.
  • Ability to work extended hours, weekend, holidays and/or alternate shifts as needed.
  • Ability to work in an environment with high dust levels around grain and other bulk products (where applicable).
  • Ability to work outside in extreme weather conditions.
  • Acutely aware of surroundings with ability to quickly adjust to a signal or change in environment.

Uses near, far and peripheral vision and depth perception for task(s) being performed; may need to be able to identify problems with grain.

Environmental Conditions

The work environment described here are meant to be representative of those an employee would normally encounter while performing the essential functions of this job.

The physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions. Frequently required to use personal protective equipment.

Travel, 5%-20% travel may be required at some facilities. This may include off-site training and/or work at alternate locations.

The expected base pay range for this role is:

$18.00 - $25.00

Actual pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including work location, job-related knowledge, skills and relevant experience for the job. Pay amount does not guarantee employment for any particular period of time.


Are you ready to make a meaningful career move & an impact at CGB? Apply today!

Known in our industry for stability and high ethics, CGB Enterprises, Inc. offers a stellar benefits package including: an outstanding 401(k) retirement plan with company contributions, medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life, & disability benefits, flexible spending accounts, paid leave (holidays, vacation, sick), wellness programs, recognition programs, community involvement opportunities, and much more!

CGB Enterprises, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal links inEnglishorSpanishare listed here. Also, we are unable to legally hire anyone who is not eligible to work in the United States nor are we able to sponsor visas.


The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this position. It should not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be performed in the job.

All Third Party Agencies, Headhunters, and Recruiters

CGB Enterprises, Inc. and its Subsidiaries only forms contracts with recruiters with whom we have an established relationship and with whom we have in place a signed contract. All contact from third parties must go through our Human Resources Department. Any contact made outside of our Human Resources Department by a third party will cancel any future business relationships between the third party and CGB Enterprises, Inc. and its Subsidiaries.