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Pit Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

MARS Solutions Group

Night Shift Forklift Operator

Alcoa, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

MARS Solutions Group is looking for an experienced Night Shift Forklift Operator located in Alcoa ... Strong knowledge of warehouse safety, PIT operation standards, and load stability principles.

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Showing results 21-40

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Pit Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$23

$27

How much do pit operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for pit operator in Tennessee is $23.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $24.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by a pit operator in a casino environment?

Pit Operators often manage multiple gaming tables, ensuring smooth operations, adherence to gaming regulations, and exceptional customer service. A common challenge is balancing quick decision-making with accuracy, especially when handling disputes or irregularities at the tables. Additionally, Pit Operators must effectively communicate with dealers, security, and surveillance teams, all while maintaining a calm demeanor in a high-energy environment. This role requires strong leadership and the ability to handle stressful situations diplomatically.

What is a pit operator?

Pit Operators are workers responsible for overseeing and managing the operations in the pit area of a mining or industrial site. Their duties typically include monitoring equipment, ensuring safety procedures are followed, and assisting with the extraction or movement of materials. They play a crucial role in maintaining efficient workflow and minimizing downtime by promptly addressing any operational issues. Pit Operators often work closely with engineers, machine operators, and safety personnel to ensure smooth site operations.

What is the difference between Pit Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectPit OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentMining sites, quarries, construction sitesConstruction sites, mining, forestry
Industry UsageMining, quarrying, aggregate productionConstruction, mining, infrastructure projects
Job FocusOperating equipment to load/unload materials in pitsOperating various heavy machinery for earthmoving

While both roles involve operating heavy machinery in similar environments, a Pit Operator primarily focuses on managing equipment within mining pits, whereas a Heavy Equipment Operator handles a broader range of machinery across construction and mining sites. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pit operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pit Operator, you need a solid understanding of mining operations, equipment handling, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Familiarity with heavy machinery, site management software, and safety certifications like MSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations in a physically demanding environment.

What are popular job titles related to Pit Operator jobs in Tennessee?

For Pit Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pit Operator jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Pit Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

Pit Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pit Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,044 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Hot Pit Loader Operator - Jackson, TN

SMS Mill Services, LLC

Jackson, TN • On-site

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

SMS Mill Services, LLC is a leader in the steel mill services industry prioritizing recycling and environmental/workers’ safety and handling all operations with integrity. SMS is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Hot Pit Loader in Jackon, TN. This is a specialty position requiring experience operating unique equipment in Hot Slag operations.
SUMMARY

  • This position will operate CAT 980 size loaders (10 cubic yard bucket or larger) and a Slag Pot carrier with a 621 size tractor hauling liquid Slag. (MUST HAVE PRIOR EXPERIENCE)
  • Equipment Operator is responsible for the operation of various pieces of heavy equipment in a safe and effective manner while moving material for processing. 
  • Equipment Operator operates heavy equipment while ensuring that all of his/her efforts are compliant with the company’s Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operate heavy equipment of various sizes and weights including but not limited to loaders, cranes, excavator, forklifts, skid steers, etc.
  • Move scrap material around the yard
  • Operate various forklifts, pallet jacks, and assist in day-to-day manual labor tasks and activities when machinery does not need to be operated
  • Keep the yard clean
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, such as positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members
  • Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as other equipment, workers, or moving objects
  • Perform daily inspections, safety checks, preventive maintenance, and repairs of equipment; check required fluids and grease equipment. Report any equipment deficiencies or malfunctions to the proper supervisor
  • Willingness to cross-train in other positions and assist other employees as needed
  • Potential to perform general labor duties which may/may not include sweeping, raking, shoveling/snow removal, general clean-up of work area and equipment, and physically handling materials and supplies
  • Other job-related duties as assigned

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE
  • 5+ years’ experience with CAT 980 loaders and 621 size tractors
  • 3+ years’ experience operating a hydraulic excavator and wheel loader with forks and buckets
  • 2+ years’ experience with skid steer and forklift
  • Experience working in a fast-paced environment
  • Valid driver’s license and the ability to drive an automobile required

SMS Mill Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. SMS Mill Services, LLC makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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