An actuator opens and closes a lid on a bulk storage container. The actuator may be activated remotely using a remote control. When actuated, the actuator will lift the lid so that it is clear of the structure, and will then rotate the lid in a horizontal plan about a vertical axis until the lid is rotated to uncover the opening. The axis of rotation is located near the perimeter of the opening, so that very little of the lid remains over the opening when in the open position. To close the lid from the open position, the remote control may then in be used to actuate the closing process. The closing process works in reverse of the opening process. Therefore, during closing, the lid will rotate back to its original orientation over the hole and then lower into the closed position.