Pit/Production Loader - Night Shift

Vulcan Materials Company•Hondo, TX

10d

About The Position

The Pit/Production Loader Operator safely and efficiently operates a loader in a mining or quarry environment to move and load materials such as rock and gravel into haul trucks, feeders, or conveyors. The operator excavates the quarry and maintains desired face, ramp, and floor conditions, including constructing and maintaining safety berms. The role involves using loader controls and attachments, maintaining appropriate load stability and weight distribution, and following supervisor instructions and production plans to meet tonnage targets. The position requires routine pre- and post-operation inspections, basic equipment maintenance checks, and prompt reporting of hazards, defects, and maintenance needs. The operator follows safety regulations and PPE requirements, coordinates loading activities with truck drivers, conveyor operators, supervisors, and the production team, and completes material records and other required documentation. The operator may also direct and train others in loader operation and maintenance.

Requirements

A valid driver's license is required.
Proven experience as a pit or plant loader operator in a mining or quarry environment.
Familiarity with equipment controls and operating techniques.
A strong commitment to safety protocols and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating hazards.
Mechanical aptitude to complete thorough safety and mechanical inspections.
Good communication skills to coordinate effectively with team members and supervisors.
Ability to work in varying weather conditions and adapt to changing work environments.
Strong spatial awareness to maneuver the loader in tight spaces, around obstacles, and in congested work areas.
Knowledge and awareness of mining and construction site hazards.
Physical ability to sit for extended periods, withstand vibrations, and operate controls precisely.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment.
Ability to climb ladders while maintaining three points of contact and sit for long periods.
Ability to lift up to 45 lbs.
Knowledge and understanding of MSHA and OSHA rules and regulations.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
Trade school diploma or certificate in equipment operation is desired.
Previous experience operating large loaders is preferred.

Responsibilities

Operate and control the pit loader to load and move materials within the pit area.
Excavate the quarry and maintain desired face, ramp, and floor conditions, including constructing and maintaining safety berms.
Use loader controls to lift, tilt, and dump materials into designated areas or onto trucks and conveyors.
Handle attachments such as buckets and forks as needed.
Operate the loader safely and perform routine equipment maintenance checks.
Load materials efficiently while maintaining appropriate weight distribution and stability.
Follow loading instructions from supervisors or production plans to meet tonnage targets.
Handle materials carefully to prevent spills, waste, or damage to equipment and infrastructure.
Follow safety regulations and protocols, including wearing required PPE.
Monitor surroundings, equipment, and personnel to prevent accidents and hazards.
Promptly report safety concerns, incidents, and equipment malfunctions to the supervisor.
Contribute to a culture of safety awareness.
Collaborate with the production team to load materials according to schedules and production goals.
Optimize loading processes to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.
Coordinate loading activities with truck drivers or conveyor operators.
Perform thorough pre- and post-operation loader checks to identify safety or mechanical defects.
Report maintenance needs and equipment issues to the maintenance department.
Maintain accurate records of materials loaded and unloaded.
Complete log sheets, work orders, and other required documentation.
Direct and train others to operate and maintain the loader as required.