Plant Loader Operator

Description

The Equipment Operator II is a mid-level role responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy mobile equipment and stationary plant machinery essential to asphalt production. The primary objective of this role is to manage raw material stockpiles, feed the plant 'cold bins' with precision to maintain mix integrity, and ensure the continuous flow of production.

Key Duties And Responsibilities

• Operate heavy front-end loaders (e.g., Cat 980 or 988 series) to feed cold feed bins
• Organize and maintain stockpiles to prevent segregation and moisture buildup; manage the 'pushing up' of materials to maximize yard space
• Skillfully operate skid steers, water trucks for dust control, backhoes, and man-lifts as required for plant maintenance and site cleanliness
• Monitor and report on raw material quality (e.g., excessive moisture or oversized rock) before it enters the production stream
• Affix to the Plant Operator in monitoring conveyor speeds, temperature gauges, and asphalt oil flow to ensure the final product meets DOT specifications
• Identify and diagnose early signs of mechanical failure in conveyors, screens, and crushers
• Perform minor field repairs such as replacing idlers, adjusting belt tracking, or clearing blockages
• Function as a relief or secondary operator for the scale house, weighing out trucks and generating load tickets using specialized plant software
• Perform daily 'walk-around' inspections and document fluid levels, tire pressures, and grease points
• Affix to the maintenance crew during 'shutdowns' with tasks including liner replacements, baghouse filter changes, and welding/cutting (if certified)
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment by removing 'spill' buildup under conveyors and around the drum using shovels and skid steers
• Maintain strict compliance with OSHA regulations, including the proper use of PPE and Fall Protection
• Perform Pre-Shift Inspections (PSI)
• Identify and mitigate site hazards through the Near-Miss reporting system
• Monitor for oil leaks or spills and follow company protocols for containment and cleanup to protect the local environment

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience
• CDL Class A or B is significant plus
• 2 – 4 years of experience operating heavy equipment, specifically in an asphalt plant environment
• Mechanical aptitude
• Computer literacy
• Troubleshooting
• Critical thinking
• Safety focused (OSHA)
• Regulatory compliance
• Effective communication (written and spoken)
• Time management