Aggregate Utility Operator (Mardela Springs, MD)

Department: Aggregate | FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)

About the Role

The Aggregate Utility Operator performs a broad range of operational, equipment, and maintenance duties in support of aggregate production activities at quarry and plant sites. This role is responsible for the safe operation of heavy mobile equipment, routine preventative maintenance of plant and processing equipment, and adherence to all applicable safety and regulatory standards including those established by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). The Aggregate Utility Operator plays a critical role in maintaining site cleanliness, operational readiness, and production continuity across multiple functional areas of the aggregate operation. The position requires flexibility to support cross-functional needs as directed and contributes directly to the efficiency, safety, and quality standards of the department.

Responsibilities

• Safely operates heavy mobile equipment including front-end loaders, haul trucks, skid steers, and excavators to move, stockpile, and load aggregate materials in accordance with site protocols and safety requirements.
• Performs routine preventative and corrective maintenance on mobile and plant-based equipment, including cutting and welding tasks, under the guidance of the Leadperson or other designated personnel.
• Conducts thorough pre-shift and post-shift inspections on all assigned equipment and accurately documents findings in the equipment maintenance log.
• Utilizes hand tools, shovels, and mobile equipment to clean around plant machinery, maintain roadways and parking areas, and ensure safe traffic flow throughout the site.
• Participates in all phases of plant operations including production, loading, shipping, and quality control activities as directed by supervision.
• Supports plant startup and shutdown procedures and assists in troubleshooting operational issues to minimize downtime and maintain production schedules.
• Performs product and material testing appropriate to the assigned division in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, state DOT, and company quality control standards (e.g., gradation analysis, moisture content, specific gravity, absorption, fractured faces, flat and elongated particles, Los Angeles Abrasion, Micro-Deval, soundness, sand equivalent, lightweight particle analysis, and other required quality tests); prepares accurate test reports in accordance with departmental and specification requirements.
• Maintains a clean, organized, and hazard-free work environment in all areas of responsibility, including plant sites and surrounding grounds.
• Adheres strictly to all site safety policies, MSHA regulations, and applicable environmental compliance standards at all times.
• Assists in the orientation and on-the-job training of co-workers as operational needs require, contributing to team development and knowledge transfer.
• Provides cross-functional support across quarry departments and fills in for other roles as needed based on operational demands and supervisor direction.
• Identifies and reports equipment deficiencies, safety hazards, or maintenance concerns to supervision in a timely and accurate manner.
• Performs additional duties as assigned by the supervisor in support of overall aggregate production operations.

Requirements

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in aggregate operations, heavy construction, mining, or a closely related field.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude, including basic knowledge of equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair techniques.

Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED required, or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.

Schedule

Full-time; Monday through Friday, 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM

Travel

This position requires travel approximately 50% of the time, primarily between quarry sites, plant locations, and other operational facilities as assigned.