Entry Level Wheel Loader Operator Jobs in Cleburne, TX

Harsco Environmental is the premier provider of material processing and environmental services to the global steel and metals industries. Our onsite mill services and resource recovery services offer sustainable solutions that maximize environmental benefit and return valuable raw material into production. We also have developed a range of by-products for specialized applications across industry, construction and agriculture, which utilize Harsco’s expertise in mineral materials.

$40-$57 per hour based on experience

Position Summary

Harsco Environmental is seeking a skilled and safety-focused Heavy Equipment Mechanic to inspect, diagnose, repair, and maintain a fleet of heavy industrial and mobile equipment operating in a steel mill and industrial site environment. The successful candidate will perform preventative maintenance, troubleshoot complex mechanical and electrical systems, and ensure equipment reliability to support continuous operations. Experience working on Caterpillar (CAT) equipment, diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and electronic diagnostic tools is highly preferred.

This position requires a hands-on mechanic with strong troubleshooting abilities, a commitment to safety, and the ability to work independently in a demanding industrial environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform preventative maintenance, inspections, and repairs on heavy mobile equipment, including:

  • Wheel loaders
  • Excavators
  • Material handlers
  • Dozers
  • Off-road haul trucks
  • Industrial forklifts
  • Cranes and support equipment

• Diagnose and repair:

  • Diesel engines
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Electrical and electronic control systems
  • Powertrain and drivetrain components
  • Braking systems
  • Steering and suspension systems

• Utilize diagnostic software, laptops, and electronic testing equipment to identify equipment faults and perform repairs.

• Perform troubleshooting of CAT equipment and other heavy equipment manufacturers' machines using OEM diagnostic software and service manuals.

• Conduct welding, cutting, fabrication, and component replacement as necessary.

• Complete work orders, inspection reports, and maintenance records accurately and timely within maintenance management systems.

• Perform field repairs in industrial operating areas and respond to equipment breakdowns to minimize downtime.

• Inspect equipment for safety, operational readiness, and compliance with company standards.

• Maintain inventory of tools and communicate parts requirements to supervisors and parts personnel.

• Collaborate with operations teams to identify equipment issues and develop effective repair solutions.

• Follow all company safety policies, lockout/tagout procedures, and environmental regulations.

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on equipment reliability and operational efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience repairing heavy equipment, construction equipment, mining equipment, or industrial mobile equipment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience with diesel engine repair and maintenance.
• Ability to read and interpret service manuals, hydraulic schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Proficiency using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Ability to work overtime, weekends, and on-call shifts as business needs require.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Caterpillar (CAT) equipment diagnostics and repairs.
• CAT, ASE, OEM, or diesel technician certifications.
• Experience working in steel mills, industrial plants, mining operations, or heavy manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of PLC-controlled systems and industrial electrical troubleshooting.
• Welding and fabrication experience.
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 75 pounds occasionally with assistance.
• Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and heavy equipment.
• Ability to work in confined spaces and elevated work areas.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and reach for extended periods.
• Ability to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions.

Work Environment

• Industrial steel mill and heavy manufacturing environment.
• Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, heat, cold, and moving equipment.
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, hearing protection, and high-visibility clothing.
• Fast-paced environment supporting critical production operations.

Key Competencies

• Mechanical troubleshooting and diagnostics
• Heavy equipment maintenance and repair
• Hydraulic and electrical systems expertise
• Safety awareness and compliance
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Time management and organization
• Teamwork and communication
• Reliability and accountability

Disclaimer:

We offer competitive benefits, including health insurance, life insurance and disability plans, as well as a 401k with company matching.

If you have a difficulty applying for any job posted on the Harsco Environmental website because a disability prevents you from using the online system, Harsco Environmental offers the following alternate application procedure: Contact at sgeibel@harsco.com and Harsco Environmental will arrange for an alternate method of applying and will consider your application together with all other applications received for the job.  Please email only for disability application. No other inquiries will receive a response.

Harsco Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. This commitment applies to decisions made with respect to hiring, placement, training, compensation, benefits, promotions, demotions, transfers, terminations, layoffs, return from layoffs, administration of benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment.