It really takes two people, one to pitch materials and one to spray with water just until wet, not soggy. Then repeat when turning piles. Piles should be turned at least twice for best results. This greatly speeds process and the compost should have a sweet earthy soil smell very quickly. When heaps cool off they are usually done and ready for spreading.
Hot heaps are dangerous to plants, animals, people and earthworms.
They sometimes have to be covered to keep out flies, pests, excess rain etc. I cover mine with mineral rich sands or soils, and I sow the cover soil with grass on heaps of coarser materials that are to be left a season. Lechates from fresh piles are too rich in bad bacteria and can be dangerous. Keep from water. But old composts are much safer.