Yard Technician, Heavy Equipment

Opportunity Summary

The Yard Technician at the Madison Biomass Facility supports daily plant operations by operating heavy equipment, monitoring systems, performing light maintenance, and ensuring safe and efficient plant performance. This role collaborates with the Control Room Operator and Shift Supervisor, offering valuable hands-on experience and fostering skill development essential for career advancement.

Scope of Responsibility

• Demonstrate a high-performance, safety-conscious, disciplined, accountable, and achievement-oriented work ethic.
• Safely and responsibly use all plant equipment, following the guidance and prescribed limits of the Shift Supervisor.
• Utilize a front-end loader to supply fuel to the boiler, ensuring a consistent and safe fuel feed for plant operation.
• Operate a skid steer to perform cleaning and material handling duties around the plant, maintaining safe and organized work areas.
• Conduct daily plant equipment checks and perform light maintenance.
• Support operational requirements of the Preventive Maintenance Program.
• Monitor plant systems and equipment through regular visual inspections, quickly detecting and communicating any abnormalities.
• Maintain consistent oil levels to uphold equipment reliability.
• Isolate equipment for maintenance; tag components, inspect and report status, and activate remote control mechanisms as required.
• Assist Heavy Equipment Operators with machine operation, inspection, cleaning, and fuel transfer to the reclaimer.
• Afford support to the Control Room Operator and Shift Supervisor through onsite system operation and inspection; support plant performance while developing skills for advancement.
• Train drivers on proper procedures for offloading trucks onto tippers and provide training and technical instruction to other shift members as needed.
• Use Three-Way radio communication to ensure clear and effective information exchange.
• Handle incoming plant communications and monitor the front gate.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring assigned tools, equipment, and workspaces are properly maintained and secured.
• Complete additional tasks as assigned by Control Room Operators and Plant Management, demonstrating flexibility and commitment to plant operations.
• Perform miscellaneous duties as directed by the Shift Supervisor.

Safety

Physical demands include standing for extended periods of time, climbing stairs and ladders, entering and exiting equipment cabs, and traversing uneven or elevated surfaces. The role requires routinely lifting up to 50 pounds and performing tasks from elevated platforms or walkways. Operators must be prepared to work in conditions involving dust, wood particles, fumes, high noise levels, and extreme temperatures near operating equipment. Outdoor work in all weather conditions is required, including in high-heat environments adjacent to biomass processing systems. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory and may include hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, high-visibility clothing, steel-toe boots, flame-resistant clothing (FRC), respirators, and fall protection. Fit testing for respirators may be required. Strict smoking restrictions are enforced in and around the facility to ensure plant safety and environmental compliance.

Work Schedule

The Yard Technician's schedule is based on a rotating 12-hour modified DuPont shift pattern. This position will occasionally necessitate extended working hours and flexible shifts as needed, including weekends and holidays, in response to schedules, workload demands, and plant conditions. Periodic callouts or "On call" status may also be required.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate of $23 per hour, along with an annual performance bonus.

Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent, with a solid foundation in following procedures, safety protocols, and work instructions.
• Technical training in heavy equipment operation, industrial maintenance, or biomass systems is desirable.
• An Associate Degree in a related field—such as Power Plant Technology or Mechanical Systems—is a plus.
• Basic knowledge of control room operations and plant systems, including monitoring equipment, following operational procedures, and assisting Control Room Operators and Shift Supervisors effectively.
• Skilled in using precision measuring tools, diagnostic equipment, and performing light mechanical maintenance such as routine inspections, oil level checks, equipment cleaning, and fuel transfer.
• Experience operating heavy equipment, such as 950 loaders, D6 and 834-wheel dozers, and skid steers, with demonstrated proficiency in safe and efficient machine handling.
• Proficient in safety protocols, including lockout/tagout procedures, to safely isolate equipment and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
• Proficient in radio communication and operational coordination, with a strong team focus demonstrated by collaborating on maintenance tasks, supervising contractors, and maintaining quality and safety standards during plant operations.
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills to identify abnormalities, maintain organized work areas, and adhere to operational limits.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for clear coordination with team members, management, and accurate reporting of maintenance activities.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.