Entry Level Quarry Loader Operator Jobs in California

JOB SUMMARY

The Dredge Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive operation of heavy excavation and material handling equipment,andnbsp; in support of aggregate production operations. This role plays a critical part in extracting raw materials such as sand, gravel, and other aggregates from land-based and water-based deposits, ensuring consistent material supply for processing and distribution.

The operator must possess advanced technical skills in handling large-scale equipment, maintain a strong awareness of environmental and safety regulations, and demonstrate the ability to adjust operations based on changing site conditions. This position requires a high level of precision, situational awareness, and adherence to Martin Marietta’s operational standards and safety culture.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate dredging equipment to excavate, move, and load raw materials in accordance with production goals and established procedures.
• Control and maneuver large-scale machinery to extract materials from pits, quarries, or underwater sources with accuracy and efficiency.
• Adjust operating techniques based on material composition, weather conditions, water levels, and site-specific challenges.
• Monitor equipment performance in real time, ensuring optimal productivity while minimizing wear and tear.
• Adhere strictly to all company safety policies, MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) regulations, and environmental guidelines.
• Conduct pre-operational safety checks, hazard assessments, and ensure proper lockout/tagout procedures when necessary.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, equipment issues, or potential risks immediately.
• Maintain constant awareness of surroundings to prevent accidents involving personnel, equipment, or property.
• Perform daily inspection and basic maintenance of dredging equipment, including checking cables, cutter head, pontoons, pumps, and mechanical systems.
• Identify signs of wear, malfunction, or inefficiency and coordinate with maintenance teams for timely repairs.
• Maintain accurate logs of equipment usage, inspections, and maintenance activities.
• Assist maintenance personnel during scheduled shutdowns or repairs as needed.
• Ensure consistent material feed to processing plants by maintaining steady extraction rates.
• Collaborate with plant operators and supervisors to meet production targets and adjust operations accordingly.
• Operate equipment in a manner that minimizes environmental disruption, including sediment control, water quality preservation, and land reclamation efforts.
• Follow site-specific environmental permits and guidelines related to dredging and excavation operations.
• Participate in daily safety meetings, shift briefings, and training sessions.
• Support cross-training and assist team members when needed to maintain workflow efficiency.
• Accurately complete operational reports, including production totals, downtime, and incident documentation.
• Record material quantities, equipment hours, and any deviations from standard procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience

Work Experience

1+ years of experience operating Heavy Mining equipment, with specific expertise inandnbsp; Hydraulic Dredge operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Excavator operation

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Critical thinking

Safety focused

MSHA compliance and regulations

Regulatory compliance

Effective communicator (written and spoken)

Time management

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Physical Requirements

Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. for plant maintenance and equipment servicing.

Required to bend, stoop, climb, and reach. You must be able to maintain three points of contact when climbing on/off machinery or on ladders.

Strong hand-eye-foot coordination is essential for operating hand/foot controls. You must have good depth perception with or without seeing aid for distances up to 150 feet.

Working Conditions

All duties require outside assignments and require periods of work in all weather conditions, cold, wet, dry and dusty.andnbsp;Must be able to work in areas where noise levels are up to 85 dbs.

Disclaimers

In addition to the primary responsibilities outlined, the successful candidate may be expected to take on other tasks and assignments as required, including but not limited to duties outside the typical scope of the role to support overall team operations and organizational needs. Flexibility and adaptability to evolving job demands are essential.