Heavy Equipment Operator

NAES•Bremond, TX

11d•$28 - $38•Onsite

About The Position

The Heavy Equipment Operator works at the Walnut Creek Coal Mine, a surface coal operation that produces more than 2 million tons of lignite annually. The position operates a variety of heavy mining equipment, performs preventive maintenance, and participates in hazard analysis to identify and mitigate risks. The operator collaborates with mine personnel, takes part in ongoing training, and supports safe, efficient operations and resource conservation. This posting is limited to current temp-to-full-time employees; external applicants will not be considered at this time. The operator works under the Operations Superintendent and responds to directions from the Operations Manager and Mine Manager. The schedule follows a rotating 12-hour DuPont schedule, with day and night shifts providing 24/7 coverage. Extended hours, flexible shifts, weekends, holidays, and possible callout availability may be required. The role requires work in mine environments and conditions that can include dust, fumes, vibration, high noise, moisture, extreme temperatures, low light, uneven terrain, confined or restricted areas, and changing outdoor weather. Required PPE may include hard hats, eye protection, steel-toed boots, respiratory and hearing protection, gloves, flame-resistant clothing, and fall protection. The position offers a base pay rate of $28 to $38 per hour and eligibility for an annual performance bonus. NAES identifies safety as a core value and expects employees to follow its safety rules and procedures. Employees participate in a Fitness for Duty Program, including a post-offer physical examination, drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening.

Requirements

Ability to understand procedures and instructions specific to the assigned area at a level acquired through four years of high school.
Knowledge of preventive maintenance procedures and equipment inspection.
Basic mechanical skills to assist with equipment repairs as needed.
Ability to conduct hazard analyses and participate in Job Hazard Analysis processes.
Strong communication skills for working with team members, supervisors, and external partners.
Ability to document equipment operation, maintenance activities, and safety incidents accurately and clearly.
Attention to detail when following instructions and maintaining records.
Valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license that remains in good standing.
Participation in the Fitness for Duty Program, including a post-offer physical examination, drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening.

Nice To Haves

Proven experience operating heavy mining equipment, demonstrating safe and efficient handling.
Prior experience in a mining environment.
Familiarity with mine road and pit operations.
Proficiency in the safe operation of various heavy mining equipment, with a focus on minimizing downtime and maintaining productivity.

Responsibilities

Follow the Walnut Creek Mining Company Safety Handbook and all applicable safety rules, procedures, warnings, and posted signs.
Operate heavy mining equipment, including haul trucks, water trucks, track-type dozers, excavators, and motor graders, on mine roads and in pit areas.
Conduct pre-operation walkaround inspections, complete related paperwork, and promptly identify maintenance needs.
Participate in Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) by assessing pit and road conditions and identifying and mitigating risks before work begins.
Maintain equipment cleanliness and organization.
Use radio communication systems in compliance with FCC and company regulations to coordinate with team members.
Support mechanics during critical equipment repairs when needed and develop proficiency in assigned maintenance tasks.
Follow written, oral, or diagram-based instructions accurately.
Maintain accurate records of equipment operation, fuel consumption, maintenance, and safety incidents.
Respond to emergencies and follow established emergency procedures.
Collaborate with mine personnel, geologists, engineers, geotechnical experts, other operators, and mining personnel to support efficient operations.
Load materials for transportation to processing or storage facilities when required.
Keep current with industry best practices, safety regulations, and equipment operation techniques, and obtain and maintain required certifications.
Provide supervisors with regular progress reports, including daily production figures, equipment status, and safety incident reports.
Conserve resources by minimizing waste of fuel, water, and other resources.
Communicate with equipment suppliers and vendors regarding spare parts and repair services.
Perform other assigned tasks and projects.