Large Equipment Operator - Recycling Centers

Padnos•Allegan, MI

About The Position

The Large Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating large equipment, including material handling cranes or hydraulic excavators, loaders, yard semi-trucks, switch engines, backhoes, and dozers. The role also involves maintaining general equipment appearance and upkeep, and identifying and communicating quality, environmental, or production-related concerns. The operator collaborates with other departments to support efficient operations and provide strong customer service. Responsibilities include preparing documents and reports, weighing packages, inspecting loads, distinguishing scrap grades and types, understanding customer specifications, and working to maximize material value. The operator performs pre-operation inspections, monitors equipment, troubleshoots issues, reports malfunctions to management, completes operating documents, assists customers with unloading, and grades, segregates, and upgrades materials as needed.

Requirements

Knowledge of equipment operation and preventative maintenance.
Good interpersonal and customer service skills.
Understanding of basic mechanical principles.
Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work independently.
Accuracy in operation and attention to detail.
Analysis and problem-solving skills.
Customer orientation and relationship-building skills.
Strategic and critical thinking.
Teamwork and collaboration.
Leadership and communication skills.
Judgment and decision-making skills.
Planning and organization.
Personal motivation.
Flexibility and adaptability.
Time management.

Nice To Haves

Six months of large equipment operating experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

Safely operate large equipment, including material handling cranes or hydraulic excavators, loaders, yard semi-trucks, switch engines, backhoes, and dozers.
Maintain the general appearance and upkeep of equipment.
Identify and communicate quality, environmental, or production-related concerns.
Collaborate with other departments to support efficient operations and provide customer service.
Prepare documents and reports, weigh packages, and inspect loads.
Distinguish between grades and types of scrap materials and understand customer specifications.
Work to maximize the value of materials.
Perform pre-operation inspections and monitor equipment during operation.
Troubleshoot equipment and notify management of malfunctions.
Complete required operating documents.
Assist customers with unloading materials.
Grade, segregate, and upgrade materials as needed.