Operations Assistant

Heritage Construction + Materials•Delphi, IN

22h

About The Position

The Operations Assistant is an entry-level management role intended to identify, develop, and train future Plant Managers for U.S. Aggregates. Reporting directly to the Area Manager, the position works closely with Plant Managers and Assistant Plant Managers across multiple aggregate operations in an assigned geographic territory. Through hands-on exposure, the Operations Assistant develops experience in plant operations, production, maintenance, quality, safety, environmental compliance, aggregate processing, drilling, blasting, and quarry operations, as well as the knowledge, skills, and leadership capabilities needed to advance into plant management. The role supports safe and efficient plant operations, employee development, quality control, equipment maintenance, production reporting, and operational improvement. It also provides coverage for plant roles as needed and requires regular travel among four to six sites in the assigned territory. Work takes place in office and outdoor environments, including quarries and plants, and may involve long hours and weekends as business needs require.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
At least 3 years of supervisory or lead experience within the aggregate industry required.
Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record required.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly present technical and operational information.
Ability to build effective working relationships and collaborate across multiple plant sites with diverse teams and functional partners.
Ability to set goals, stay self-motivated, and maintain a commitment to professional growth and continuous learning.
Working knowledge of MSHA and environmental rules and regulations applicable to aggregate operations, awareness of site hazards, and commitment to safety and compliance.
Working knowledge of mechanical components, plant equipment, and procedures applicable to aggregate production and maintenance environments.
Strong organization, planning, time management, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to manage competing priorities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook and Excel, and other software tools relevant to plant operations, reporting, and performance tracking.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and adapt to changing priorities and operational needs.
Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry at least 50 pounds; stand or walk for extended periods on level or uneven ground; climb ladders, stairways, and incline catwalks; work safely at elevated heights; and bend, crouch, or kneel.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, including pickup trucks, at plant sites, on public roads, and between multiple locations daily.
Must wear required personal protective equipment and comply with site safety standards.
Requires regular travel among 4 to 6 sites within the assigned territory, with flexibility to work long hours and weekends as business needs require.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent combination of training and work experience.
Exposure to preventive maintenance, aggregate processing, quality control, and drilling and blasting.
Current MSHA Part 46 training.
Skill in welding, torching, and maintenance processes.

Responsibilities

Promote and support safety and environmental compliance with State, Federal, Company, and MSHA rules and regulations; participate in weekly safety meetings, workplace examinations, and incident reviews; and model safe job planning and procedures.
Assist Plant Managers with planning, scheduling, and directing daily crushing, screening, washing, equipment operation, and material handling activities to maintain production efficiency and meet sales forecasts.
Assist with scheduling and monitoring preventive maintenance for fixed and mobile equipment, reviewing daily equipment inspection reports, and ensuring replacement and repair parts are available to minimize downtime.
Support quality control with the Quality Manager, including sampling and testing aggregate products, ensuring compliance with customer and regulatory specifications, and helping resolve product quality issues.
Develop working knowledge of drilling and blasting operations, including shot planning, contractor coordination, safety and regulatory requirements, and downstream production cost impacts.
Coach, mentor, and direct plant employees; partner with Plant Managers and HR Business Partners on training, staffing, and personnel matters, including progressive discipline.
Assist Plant Managers with tracking and reporting key performance indicators, maintaining production and inventory data, and supporting budget targets.
Use plant production data to identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize plant performance.
Fill in for Plant Managers, Assistant Plant Managers, and other plant positions as needed to support coverage across the assigned territory.
Participate in monthly production and planning meetings and communicate plant goals, progress, and development to Area Managers and senior leadership.
Perform additional assigned duties and continue developing in alignment with the Company’s core values, competencies, and skills.