Operator, Equipment - Material Handling

Savage is a global provider of supply chain infrastructure and logistics solutions with more than 200 locations across the United States, Canada, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. Since our founding in 1946, we’ve grown from a small family business to an international company with more than 4,000 team members. We’re proud to be recognized as a Military Friendly Employer and a Top Company for Women to Work in Transportation. Savage supports growth and impact, welcoming Military Veterans and Reservists—military experience may substitute for some requirements.

About the role

The Equipment Operator safely operates heavy machinery, such as material handlers (excavators), conveyor belts, and front-end loaders, to handle petroleum coke at the Citgo refinery in Lake Charles, Louisiana. This role also assists in maintaining equipment according to Savage standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment daily, including a KOMATSU WA500 Loader (or equivalent), skid steer, and material handler to move, stockpile, and load material onto trucks.
• Assist with tasks such as maintenance, clean-up, safety observations, and inspections to meet customer expectations.
• Perform thorough pre- and post-trip inspections of equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness of equipment and expand personal knowledge of operating procedures.
• Report maintenance issues to the maintenance crew.
• Understand and meet critical service requirements.
• Actively participate in the safety program, including attending all safety meetings and ensuring safe behaviors.
• Ensure environmental compliance.

Requirements

• Extensive experience operating large pieces of heavy equipment.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Must meet Citgo Lake Charles Refinery standards: clean criminal history, ability to pass a drug & alcohol screen, current Driver’s License, and TWIC card at the time of applying.
• Understanding of best practices for maintaining and safely operating heavy equipment in a refinery.
• Safety-conscious with knowledge of safe work practices for refinery environments.
• Comfortable working at heights, including walking up and down conveyor belt lines and climbing ladders.
• Knowledge of conveyor systems is a plus, but willingness to learn is required.
• Ability to work safely, efficiently, and thoroughly with minimal supervision.
• Strong commitment to Environmental, Health, Safety, and Security.
• Reliable, honest, professional, and self-directed with a sense of urgency and integrity.
• Willingness to work shift work (day/night), weekends, and holidays.

Physical and Environmental Demands

• Routinely work outdoors, exposed to the elements.
• Physically able to handle large tools and equipment (50 lbs.), climb on/off equipment, ascend/descend ladders, and work at heights without fear.

Benefits

Team members may be eligible for a benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life, AD&D, and disability insurance; supplemental coverage options.
• Health savings and flexible spending accounts.
• Paid time off.
• Profit sharing and a 401(k) plan with company match.

Benefits are dependent on hours worked and position classification and are subject to change. For more information, visit Savage Benefits Information.