Loader Operator II - Pellet Mills

W.C. Bradley Co. • Hope, AR

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Front Loader Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of front-end loaders and other rolling stock in the wood yard of the pellet mill. This position ensures that fiber materials are inventoried, blended, and delivered according to recipe plans to feed the production process. The operator plays a key role in maintaining consistent material supply and supporting optimal pellet mill performance.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to operate rolling stock safely and with precision in high-traffic industrial areas.
• Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and on a rotating shift schedule.
• Strong communication and leadership presence in a production environment.
• Must be able to repeatively lift up to 50 lbs.

Nice To Haves

• 1–2 years of experience operating front-end loaders or heavy equipment preferred.
• Familiarity with material handling, feedstock blending, or wood products a plus.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate pellet mill production activities and team members on the assigned shift.
• Monitor production output, quality, and equipment performance to ensure shift goals are met.
• Conduct shift startup meetings and communicate daily production goals and safety messages.
• Respond to equipment issues, product flow disruptions, and mill alarms; escalate to maintenance when needed.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and support operators with mechanical or procedural questions.
• Ensure team members follow safety procedures, PPE usage, and environmental compliance protocols.
• Conduct periodic inspections of the mill area, walkways, bagging stations, and conveyors to identify hazards or operational inefficiencies.
• Complete shift logs, production reports, and downtime tracking; communicate shift handoff status to incoming foreman or plant leadership.
• Train and coach new or less experienced team members in pellet mill processes and safety expectations.
• Assist with enforcing plant rules and conduct initial investigations for minor incidents.
• Refuel and maintain cleanliness of loader and yard equipment as scheduled.
• Ensure fiber delivery to production feed systems is continuous and aligned with operating schedules.
• Communicate recipe adjustments or fiber quality concerns to the shift supervisor.
• Support cleanup of wood yard and material handling systems during downtime or maintenance windows.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED