Pit/Production Loader

Vulcan Materials Company•Eastland, 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, conveyors, or designated areas. The operator helps maintain quarry face, ramp, and floor conditions, including constructing and maintaining safety berms, and follows production plans to meet tonnage targets while minimizing downtime and material waste. The role includes performing pre- and post-operation inspections, routine equipment checks, identifying and reporting maintenance needs or safety concerns, and completing required records and documentation. The operator coordinates loading activities with truck drivers, conveyor operators, supervisors, and the production team. The position may also involve directing and training others in loader operation and maintenance. Work takes place in a mining or construction environment with varying weather conditions and site hazards. The operator must follow safety protocols, wear required personal protective equipment, and be physically able to sit for extended periods, withstand equipment vibrations, operate controls precisely, climb ladders using three points of contact, and lift up to 45 pounds.

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.
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 interact and 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 a loader in tight spaces, around obstacles, and in congested work areas.
Knowledge and awareness of mining and construction site hazards.
Ability to sit for extended periods, withstand vibrations, and operate controls with precision.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment.
Ability to climb ladders while maintaining three points of contact.
Ability to lift up to 45 pounds.
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 move and load materials within the pit area.
Excavate the quarry to 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, trucks, or 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 supervisor instructions and production plans to meet required tonnage targets.
Handle materials carefully to prevent spills, waste, or damage to equipment and infrastructure.
Follow safety regulations and protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.
Monitor surroundings, equipment, and personnel to prevent accidents and hazards.
Promptly report safety concerns, incidents, equipment malfunctions, and maintenance needs to the supervisor or maintenance department.
Contribute to a culture of safety awareness.
Coordinate with the production team to load materials according to schedules and production goals.
Optimize loading processes to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.
Communicate with truck drivers and conveyor operators to coordinate loading activities.
Perform pre- and post-operation inspections to identify safety or mechanical defects.
Maintain accurate records of materials loaded and unloaded and complete log sheets, work orders, and other required documentation.
May direct and train others to operate and maintain the loader.