Pit Loader Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JOB SUMMARY

The Equipment Operator is a foundational role responsible for the safe and efficient operation of mobile heavy equipment used in the extraction, transportation, and processing of aggregate materials (sand, gravel, and crushed stone).

As a key contributor to the production cycle, the Operator ensures that raw materials move seamlessly from the pit to the plant and that finished products are managed effectively in stockpiles. Beyond machinery operation, this role is deeply integrated into the site’s maintenance and safety culture, requiring a "Safety First" mindset and a willingness to perform cross-functional duties, including manual labor and plant housekeeping—to maintain an elite operational environment.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Safely operate entry-to-mid-level mobile equipment, including but not limited to Haul Trucks (off-road), Water Trucks, and Front-End Loaders (e.g., CAT 980/988 series).
• Transport raw materials from the extraction pit to the primary crusher and move finished aggregate products from the plant to designated stockpiles.
• Maintain the integrity of product stockpiles by ensuring materials are separated correctly to prevent contamination.
• Operate water trucks to manage dust control on haul roads and utilize equipment to maintain berms, ramps, and safe traffic flow throughout the facility.
• Conduct rigorous daily inspections of vehicle systems (brakes, steering, fluids, tires, and gauges) to identify potential hazards or mechanical issues.
• Perform routine PM tasks, including greasing moving parts, checking oil levels, cleaning cabs, and assisting mechanics with minor repairs (e.g., replacing idlers, belts, or bearings).
• Use Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to identify and report equipment malfunctions or unusual sounds to the maintenance team immediately to minimize downtime.
• Operate all machinery in strict accordance with MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) regulations and Martin Marietta’s internal safety policies.
• Participate in the "Guardian Angel" safety program by identifying "near miss" hazards, wearing all required PPE, and looking out for the safety of coworkers and visiting contractors.
• Ensure all operations comply with environmental standards, specifically regarding dust control and spill prevention in the yard.
• When not operating equipment, assist in plant operations which may involve manual shoveling, sweeping around conveyors, cleaning under crushers, and general site cleanup.
• Maintain constant contact with plant operators and other drivers via CB radio or hand signals to coordinate safe movement and material flow.
• Accurately complete daily production logs, maintenance reports, and safety forms.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

High school diploma, GED, or relevant experience

Technical training and vocational certification is preferred

Work Experience

No experience is required; 6 months – 1 year of experience operating Heavy Equipment within a Mining, Quarry, or Construction setting is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Critical thinking

Safety focused

MSHA compliance and regulations

Regulatory compliance

Effective communication (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. 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.

The hiring range for this position is $30.00 -$40.00 exclusive of benefits or bonuses (discretionary and non-discretionary). The offered base compensation will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, business need, market conditions, proficiencies, skills, education, and experience. Additionally, at Martin Marietta we place a high value on internal pay equity and will consider the compensation for those in similarly situated roles and direct team members. The hiring range for this role represents the base compensation we expect to pay for the position at time of hire and does not represent the total possible base pay of the position.

In addition to our base compensation, we also offer a competitive benefits package for full-time employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage; prescription drug coverage; health savings accounts; flexible spending accounts; life, AD&D and disability insurance; 401(k) with a company match and an employer-funded defined benefit pension plan. Other benefits include paid time off, paid holidays, education/tuition assistance, an employee discount program, adoption assistance, wellness programs and more.

Part time employees are eligible to participate in the 401k plan and receive a company match. In addition, they are eligible to start accruing service for the pension plan.