Gravel Pit Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Vulcan Materials Company is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of aggregates-based construction materials including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete. When you join Vulcan, it's more than starting an exciting career - you get to make a difference for millions of people every day across the country.
When you join Vulcan, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded, and diversity is valued. No matter the role or the location across the country, every member of the Vulcan team lives through the Vulcan Way: doing the right thing, the right way, at the right time.
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At Vulcan Materials, we believe that the heart of our success lies in the strength of our engagement, our connection, and our commitment to developing our people. We are excited to restore the collaborative in-person environment that fuels our innovation and growth. This move is not just about being physically present; it's about reigniting the spirit that comes from face-to-face interactions, fostering a collaborative, inclusive culture where every voice is heard and everyone thrives.
The base hourly range for this role is between $29 - $34 per hour. This range is not inclusive of our discretionary bonus or equity package. When determining a candidate's compensation, we consider a number of factors, including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data.
Job Summary
The Pit/Production Loader Operator is responsible for efficiently and safely operating a loader to load materials, such as rock, and gravel into haul trucks or feeder. The role requires a skilled operator who can maneuver heavy machinery in a mining environment while adhering to safety guidelines and maintaining productivity targets.
Essential Functions
• Operate and control the pit loader to load and move materials within the pit area.
• Excavates quarry to maintain desired face, ramp and floor conditions including the construction and maintenance of safety berms.
• Utilize the loader's controls to lift, tilt, and dump materials into designated areas or onto trucks/conveyors.
• Handle attachments (buckets, forks, etc.) as needed for various tasks.
• Ensure the safe operation of the loader and perform routine equipment maintenance checks.
• Load materials efficiently, maintaining appropriate weight distribution and stability.
• Follow loading instructions provided by supervisors or production plans to meet required tonnage targets.
• Handle materials with care to prevent spills, waste, or damage to equipment and surrounding infrastructure.
• Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain awareness of surroundings, equipment, and personnel to prevent accidents or hazards.
• Report any safety concerns, incidents, or equipment malfunctions to the supervisor promptly.
• Contribute to a culture of safety awareness.
• Collaborate with the production team to ensure materials are loaded according to schedule and production goals.
• Optimize loading processes to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.
• Communicate with truck drivers or conveyor operators to coordinate loading activities.
• Perform thorough pre and post operation checks of the pit loader to identify safety or mechanical defects.
• Report any maintenance needs or equipment issues to the maintenance department.
• Maintain accurate records of materials loaded and unloaded.
• Complete log sheets, work orders, and other documentation as required.
• May direct and train others to operate and maintain the loader as required.
Critical Competencies
• Equipment Operation - Proficiency in operating large equipment, including understanding the controls, gauges, and indicators. Ability to manipulate equipment accurately and smoothly for various tasks. Skill in handling attachments and understanding their applications.
• Safety Awareness - Ability to recognize, understand, and adhere to safety protocols and procedures in the workplace; proactive in identifying potential hazards, taking steps to mitigate risks, and ensuring that both personal and collective safety are maintained in all tasks and environments.
• Technical Expertise - Solid mechanical understanding of mobile equipment, including basic maintenance checks and troubleshooting minor issues. Ability to identify signs of equipment malfunction and report them to the maintenance team.
• Material Handling - Proficient in loading various materials onto trucks, conveyors, or other transport vehicles while maintaining load stability and distribution. Ability to estimate weights and volumes for optimal loading and transportation efficiency.
• Problem Solving - Identify, analyze, and resolve work-related issues efficiently and effectively using practical knowledge, experience, and hands-on skills. This involves identifying the problem, diagnosing the cause, finding practical solutions, implementing fixes, and adapting to unexpected challenges.
• Teamwork and Collaboration- Ability to work effectively and harmoniously with others to achieve common goals; contributes positively to group efforts, sharing knowledge, and being open to others' ideas and feedback.
• Adaptability: Adapts to new conditions, is flexible and open-minded when facing challenges, and maintains high performance during change.
Responsibilities
Education
• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred. Trade school diploma or certificate in equipment operation is desired.
• Certifications/Licenses: A valid driver's license is required
Experience
• Previous experience in operating large loaders is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Proven experience as a pit/plant loader operator in a mining/quarry environment
• Familiarity with equipment controls and operation techniques
• A strong commitment to safety protocols and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating potential hazards
• Mechanical aptitude to complete a thorough safety and mechanical inspection
• Good communication skills to effectively interact and coordinate with team members and supervisors
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions and adapt to changing work environments
• Strong sense of spatial awareness to maneuver the loader in tight spaces, around obstacles, and in congested work areas
Other Requirements
• This position requires knowledge and awareness of mining and construction site hazards.
• Physical ability to sit for extended periods, withstand vibrations, and operate controls with precision.
• Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Must have the ability to climb ladders while maintaining three points of contact and sit for long periods of time.
• Must be able to lift up to 45 lbs.
• Knowledge and understanding of MSHA and OSHA rules and regulations.
JD Disclaimer
Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.