Yard Loader Operator

Job Summary

Essential Functions

• Performs basic loading and stockpile-building tasks under direct supervision.
• Focuses on developing fundamental operating skills and safety awareness in a high-traffic area.
• Assists with routine maintenance and cleanup tasks.
• Operate a front-end loader to load trucks, feed processing plants, and move materials within the stockpile area.
• Maintain precise control of the loader, ensuring safe and efficient operation in a potentially high traffic area.
• Conduct pre- and post-operation inspections of the loader, reporting any maintenance needs or safety concerns.
• Load trucks accurately and efficiently, ensuring proper weight distribution and minimizing spillage.
• Perform routine maintenance checks on the loader, identifying and addressing any issues.
• Work collaboratively with plant operators, truck drivers, and other team members to ensure efficient production and material flow.

Critical Competencies

• Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating large loaders, including understanding the controls, gauges, and indicators.
• Ability to manipulate the loader accurately and smoothly for various tasks, such as loading, dumping, and transporting materials.
• Skill in maneuvering the loader accurately and smoothly for various tasks, such as loading, dumping, and transporting materials.
• Skill in handling attachments and understanding their applications.
• Strong sense of spatial awareness to maneuver the loader safely in tight spaces, around obstacles and in congested work areas.
• Safety Awareness: Thorough understanding of safety protocols and regulations related to heavy equipment operation.
• Able to identify potential hazards and take preventive actions to ensure a safe working environment.
• Diligent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety guidelines at all times.
• Technical Expertise: Solid mechanical understanding of loaders, including basic maintenance checks and troubleshooting minor issues.
• Able to identify signs of equipment malfunction and report them to the maintenance team.
• Material Handling: Proficient in loading various materials onto trucks, conveyors and other transport vehicles while maintaining load stability and distribution.
• Ability to accurately estimate weights and volumes for optimal load and transportation efficiency.
• Problem Solving: Ability to assess loading challenges and adapt accordingly. Demonstrate decision making in response to unexpected situations or change in the work environment.

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience: 1-4 years of experience operating a front-end loader in a stockpile environment.
• Demonstrates a high level of proficiency in loader operation and safety practices.
• Understanding of stockpile management, material properties, and quality control procedures.
• Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities: Operates the loader with a high degree of skill and efficiency in a high-traffic area.
• Consistently meets or exceeds production targets while maintaining stockpile quality.
• Proactively identifies and resolves operational challenges.
• May assist in training and mentoring less experienced operators.
• Contributes to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Requires minimal supervision after the plan for the day has been communicated and can adapt to changing conditions associated with the pit floor and working face.
• May assist in training and mentoring less experienced operators.
• Contributes to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proven experience operating a front-end loader.
• Ability to operate heavy machinery safely and efficiently in a high-traffic area.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for pre- and post-operation checks.

Other Requirements

• Must have the ability to climb ladders while maintaining three points of contact.
• Physical ability to climb ladders, sit for extended periods, and operate controls with precision.
• Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols, including wearing appropriate PPE.
• Maintain a high level of situational awareness in a dynamic work environment with truck traffic and other mobile equipment.
• Report any safety concerns, incidents, or equipment malfunctions promptly.
• Understand and follow environmental regulations related to dust control, material handling, and stockpile management.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions.
• Strong understanding of safety protocols and MSHA regulations.
• Perform routine maintenance checks on the loader, identifying and addressing any issues.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams for repairs and preventive maintenance.
• Complete log sheets, work orders, and other documentation to maintain accurate materials records as required.