Heavy Equipment Operator

About the Role

This role supports daily quarry and rail operations by safely operating mobile equipment, managing material handling, and assisting with drilling and blasting activities to meet production, quality, and environmental standards. The position requires strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills, the ability to work independently or in a team, and a willingness to work varying shifts and conditions while maintaining regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Assist in coordinating and meeting kiln feed requirements for the plant.
• Perform day-to-day operations of the quarry area to meet safety, tonnage, quality, and environmental demands.
• Operate the stone handling system.
• Assist in loading and stockpile management of dolostone.
• Assist with rail facility loading of lime shipments, including operation of the shuttlewagon.
• Communicate and coordinate BNSF rail activities.
• Operate mobile equipment for quarry and plant, including pit loader, haul trucks, water trucks, blade, utility loader, and other equipment as needed.
• Load both large haul trucks and over-the-road trucks.
• Assist with drilling and blasting activities, including inventory management of explosives.

Qualifications

• Industrial background with demonstrated success in troubleshooting production problems.
• Ability to perform mechanical repairs, including welding, conveyor belt splicing, oxygen-acetylene cutting, heavy equipment operation, and electrical troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of current safety, environmental, and ATF regulations and practices.
• Ability to operate all mobile equipment and train/supervise others.
• Basic mathematical skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division of whole numbers, fractions, and decimals).
• Knowledge of SAP for work notifications and purchase requisitions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for tracking quarry activities (crushing, equipment downtime, fuel usage, etc.).
• Excellent human relations and leadership skills.
• Ability to multi-task, with strong organizational and communication skills.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and be open to call-outs.

Physical Demands

• Tolerate working outside in severe weather conditions and exposure to high temperatures, noise, and dust.
• Access all areas within a site, including heights of 120 feet, confined spaces, ladders, stairs, and tunnels.
• Able to lift over 70 pounds.
• Willingness to operate and drive trucks to and from rail (CDL preferred).

Required Experience

At least 5 years of experience in a production/distribution environment, with supervisory background preferred.

Required Education

High School Diploma, GED Equivalent, or demonstrated skills/ability required. Associate’s degree in Industrial, Distribution, or Engineering Systems or equivalent practical experience preferred.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• Paid vacation and sick time.
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Match and Supplemental Contribution based on Years of Service.
• Educational assistance for continued learning and professional development.

Lhoist North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.