Loader Operator

Vulcan Materials Company•Portsmouth, RI

3h•$21 - $31

About The Position

The Sales Yard/Stockpile Loader Operator operates machinery to load and unload materials in a sales yard or stockpile area. The role uses equipment such as front-end loaders, forklifts, and other heavy machinery to move materials safely and efficiently, while maintaining and organizing materials for customer access or further processing. The operator may also perform routine equipment maintenance and assist with other tasks as needed. The position includes basic loading and stockpile-building tasks under direct supervision, with a focus on developing operating skills and safety awareness in a high-traffic area. Duties also include operating a front-end loader to load trucks, feed processing plants, and move stockpile materials; conducting equipment inspections and routine maintenance checks; and coordinating with plant operators, truck drivers, maintenance teams, and other team members to support production and material flow. The role requires adherence to safety and environmental regulations, including applicable MSHA regulations, and completion of operational documentation as required.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
1–4 years of experience operating a front-end loader in a stockpile environment.
Proven experience operating a front-end loader and ability to operate heavy machinery safely and efficiently in a high-traffic area.
Demonstrated proficiency in loader operation and safety practices, including understanding controls, gauges, indicators, and attachments.
Understanding of stockpile management, material properties, and quality control procedures.
Basic mechanical aptitude for pre- and post-operation checks and troubleshooting minor issues.
Ability to identify equipment malfunctions and report them to the maintenance team.
Ability to load materials onto trucks, conveyors, and other transport vehicles while maintaining load stability and distribution, and to estimate weights and volumes.
Ability to assess loading challenges, make decisions in response to unexpected situations, and adapt to changing conditions in the pit floor and working face.
Ability to work with minimal supervision after the plan for the day has been communicated.
Must be able to climb ladders while maintaining three points of contact.
Physical ability to climb ladders, sit for extended periods, and operate controls with precision.
Ability to work in varying weather conditions.
Strong understanding of safety protocols and MSHA regulations.
Ability to maintain situational awareness in a dynamic environment with truck traffic and other mobile equipment.

Responsibilities

Perform basic loading and stockpile-building tasks under direct supervision.
Operate a front-end loader to load trucks, feed processing plants, and move materials within the stockpile area.
Operate equipment safely and efficiently in a high-traffic area, maintaining precise control and awareness of obstacles and other mobile equipment.
Load trucks accurately, maintaining proper weight distribution and minimizing spillage.
Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections and report maintenance needs, safety concerns, or equipment malfunctions.
Perform routine maintenance checks and collaborate with maintenance teams on repairs and preventive maintenance.
Assist with routine maintenance and cleanup tasks.
Work with plant operators, truck drivers, and other team members to support efficient production and material flow.
Maintain and organize materials in the yard or stockpile area.
Follow safety protocols, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and comply with environmental regulations related to dust control, material handling, and stockpile management.
Complete log sheets, work orders, and other documentation to maintain accurate material records as required.
May assist in training and mentoring less experienced operators.
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and proactively address operational challenges.
Perform other duties as assigned.