Dredge Operator, TEMP

HECLA MINING CO. • Juneau, AK

2d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Temporary Dredge Operator, you will play a vital role in maintaining the sediment management systems at the Hecla Greens Creek Mine. This position is responsible for operating the FLUMP dredge at Pond 7 to remove accumulated sediment, ensuring the proper treatment of mine site waters prior to discharge. Your work directly supports our commitment to operating in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.

The Greens Creek Mine, located on Admiralty Island, 18 miles south of Juneau, is an underground polymetallic mine employing approximately 550 people. The mine is owned and operated by Hecla Mining Company, headquartered in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Established in 1891, Hecla has a rich history as a distinguished and respected precious metals producer. Winner of numerous safety and environmental awards, Greens Creek is seeking team members committed to professional growth and success.

The Temporary Dredge Operator will report to the Environmental Manager and work closely with Environmental and Surface Operations personnel. This seasonal, temporary role is responsible for the daily operation of the FLUMP dredge system at Pond 7 of the Greens Creek Mine. The operator ensures the safe, effective removal of tailings sediment from Pond 7 to maintain the capacity and function of the stormwater system and protect the environment. This position performs the following duties:

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Ability to read and interpret equipment manuals.
• Willingness to work 12-hour shifts, up to 6 days per week, in an outdoor industrial environment in Southeast Alaska.
• Applicants must possess current authorization to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Operate the SRS Crisafulli FLUMP dredge at Pond 7 to remove accumulated tailings sediment, following the established Dredge Standard Operating Procedure.
• Assemble, inspect, and help maintain all dredge components including discharge piping, fire hose sections, Victaulic manifold, sediment bags, and traverse cable system prior to and during operation.
• Prepare and manage polymer flocculant solutions using the Dayton tank mixer and 350-gallon IBC totes and operate the Seepex flocculant pump to achieve correct dosage rates.
• Continuously monitor sediment bag fill rates, float tube connections, sample tube connections, and flocculation quality during dredge operation.
• Perform regular dewatering of sediment bags to achieve target moisture content prior to sediment being returned to the Tailings Disposal Facility (TDF).
• Conduct pre-operation inspections of all electrical connections, piping, hoses, wire traverse assemblies, and fittings.
• Maintain awareness of environmental hazards including pond liner integrity, risk of tailings slurry release, and proper spill prevention and response procedures.
• Don and maintain all required PPE including life jacket, Tyvek sleeves, chemical rubber gloves, hearing protection, and rain gear as conditions require.
• Foster a strong safety culture, promoting and exemplifying safe work practices throughout daily operations.
• Be a part of a team you can rely on; a team that will have your back.
• Operate the FLUMP dredge system in accordance with the site Dredge SOP, including daily setup, operation, monitoring, and shutdown procedures.
• Prepare polymer flocculant solution and calibrate the Seepex pump to maintain a dosage rate of for optimal sediment dewatering.
• Inspect all mechanical, electrical, and piping components of the dredge system prior to each use and document findings.
• Monitor sediment bags continuously during operation, address blockages or kinks in fire hose lines promptly, and conduct regular dewatering to achieve target moisture content.
• Comply with all lockout/tagout procedures and electrical safety standards during all phases of dredge operation.
• Use bear spray, air horn, and binoculars during sediment bag inspections and dewatering activities in accordance with site wildlife safety protocols.
• Coordinate with Surface Operations for excavator-assisted dredge placement and sediment return to the TDF.
• Complete all required documentation and communicate operational status, issues, and environmental concerns to the Environmental Manager in a timely manner.
• Display due diligence in safety, health, and environmental matters and lead by example to ensure the successful implementation of the Safety & Health Management System and Environmental Management System.
• Promote open communication and cooperation with all site personnel.
• Undertake safety and health audits and inspections and interact with personnel concerning improving work practices and following up on action items.
• Support all personnel in achieving and maintaining desired safety, health, and environmental outcomes.
• Recognize superior safety, health, and environmental performance to help increase commitment and participation.
• Identify and immediately report environmental hazards including potential pond liner damage, tailings slurry release, or oil spill from dredge equipment.
• Maintain awareness of and respond appropriately to wildlife hazards; carry bear spray and air horn during sediment bag inspections and dewatering operations.
• Manage, notify, report, and investigate incidents and hazards in a timely manner as required.
• Manage compliance with safety and health and environmental requirements and ensure issues are being addressed prior to commencement of work (such as permits completed, isolations checked, and tagging completed).
• Monitor the safe use and control of all dredge tools and equipment.
• Assist in preparing and contributing to safety, health, and environmental reporting as required.

Benefits

• Hecla Greens Creek offers competitive pay based on experience and an excellent low-cost benefits package for medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as other coverages such as disability coverage and life insurance.
• Retirement benefits include a pension plan and 401(k) with company match.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees