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Temporary Leach Pad Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Temporary Leach Pad Operator information

What is a temporary leach pad operator?

Temporary Leach Pad Operators are workers hired on a short-term basis to assist in the operation and maintenance of leach pads at mining sites. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring the leaching process, ensuring proper distribution of leaching solutions, inspecting pad integrity, and reporting any issues or irregularities. They play a key role in ensuring the efficient extraction of valuable minerals from ore using chemical solutions. These operators often work under the supervision of permanent staff and must follow strict safety and environmental guidelines. Temporary positions may last for a few weeks to several months, depending on project needs.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a temporary leach pad operator?

To thrive as a Temporary Leach Pad Operator, you need knowledge of mining operations, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy equipment, leach pad irrigation systems, and safety protocols is essential, and some roles may require MSHA certification. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work well in a team environment are important soft skills. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation of the leach pad in mining settings.

What are common challenges faced by temporary leach pad operators and how can they be managed?

Temporary Leach Pad Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, managing chemical handling safely, and maintaining consistent leach pad irrigation flows. To manage these effectively, operators should follow strict safety protocols, use personal protective equipment, and communicate closely with both maintenance and process teams to address issues promptly. Staying organized and adhering to established procedures can help minimize risks and ensure the leaching process runs smoothly.

What is the difference between Temporary Leach Pad Operator vs Heap Leach Operator?

AspectTemporary Leach Pad OperatorHeap Leach Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic mining certificationsOSHA safety training, basic mining certifications
Work EnvironmentMining sites, leach pad areas, outdoorMining sites, heap leach facilities, outdoor
Industry UsageUsed during initial leaching phases or short-term projectsUsed for ongoing or long-term heap leaching operations

Both roles involve working in mining environments with safety certifications and outdoor settings. The main difference is that Temporary Leach Pad Operators typically work during specific project phases or short-term operations, while Heap Leach Operators handle continuous, long-term heap leaching processes. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify job expectations and industry roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Leach Pad Operator jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Leach Pad Operator jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Temporary Leach Pad Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Medium Voltage Field Service Technician, Midwest (2 Openings)

SMA America

Detroit, MI

$24.25 - $33.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Why Work at SMA America
At SMA America, we believe in Energy that Changes. Since 1981, we've been developing innovative solar technology that simplifies, secures, and enhances the performance of photovoltaic systems — all while pushing the boundaries of what's possible in clean energy.
But we're not just transforming power — we're empowering people.
We've built a culture where bold ideas are welcomed, collaboration is second nature, and your career growth truly matters. With our Rocklin, CA headquarters as the hub, we offer a hybrid work model, competitive benefits, and a team-driven environment where your impact is seen and felt.
Whether you're a sales expert, service pro, or engineering innovator, if you're ready to join a purpose-driven team committed to shaping the future of energy — we'd love to meet you.

WORK AUTHORIZATION

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. SMA America does not offer employment visa sponsorship of any kind, including H-1B, OPT, CPT, or TN visas. Candidates who currently require or will in the future require visa sponsorship are not eligible for this role. Candidates operating under a temporary work permit or any visa-tied employment authorization are also not eligible.

AI-GENERATED APPLICATION MATERIALS

We review all resumes and application materials for AI-generated content. Submissions that show evidence of AI manipulation, including AI-written resumes, cover letters, or responses, will be disqualified from consideration without further review. We want to hear your authentic voice and see your genuine experience.

RECRUITMENT FRAUD NOTICE

All SMA America openings are posted on our official careers page and all recruiter communication comes from an @sma-america.com address. We never request payment, banking information, or a Social Security number during the recruitment process. If you are contacted about an SMA America role from a personal email account, or asked for any of the above, please forward the message to HRGeneralmailbox@sma-america.com.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The Medium Voltage Specialist is primarily responsible for handling Medium Voltage escalations for SMA's customers and suppliers. The Medium Voltage Specialist partners closely with the Medium Voltage engineering team in SMA AG to work through solutions for SMA's U.S. customers and suppliers. This position is also responsible for performing warranty repairs, technical support, and extensive testing of the internal workings of SMA Medium Voltage products.

We currently have 2 openings for this role in the Midwest region.

PRIMARY DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Responsible for testing, including Medium Voltage Transformer core testing, troubleshoots, repairs, and analyzing SMA Large Scale MV systems in the field, operations and maintenance, and site visits.
  • Applies expert knowledge and training from high voltage test equipment to identify root causes for SMA's internal quality 8D reports.
  • Develops detailed knowledge to aid in the creation of processes and procedures for SMA's Medium Voltage products, associated SMA and/or third-party accessories sold by SMA.
  • Uses expert knowledge to determine correct courses of action after conducting DGA sampling and obtaining results from DGA reports.
  • Maintains accurate inventory count of spare parts provided by SMA.
  • Uses expert knowledge to repair external leaks and cold-weld patches on Medium Voltage Transformers.
  • Regularly works with high voltage DC, three phase power, high AC voltage, and related software/firmware of SMA products.
  • Maintains a high level of customer satisfaction while striving to lower the costs of field service expenditure.
  • Collaborates cross functionally with the Global Service Organization, Quality, and Suppliers to provide customers with Root Cause Analysis of failures, and is responsible for keeping customers informed of the RCA status.
  • Performs and maintains maintenance activities in accordance with the SMA product maintenance manual on assigned sites with SMA customer contractual obligations.
  • Other duties may be assigned or required.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Certifications in the following are required through the AVO Training Institute or another accredited institution/trade school (either already obtained or trained upon hiring): Medium Voltage Transformer Levels I and II; Switch Gear and Circuit Breaker Maintenance with grounding and bonding; Electrical Safety for Utilities; Substation Maintenance I and II.
  • Must be familiar with High Voltage test equipment and understand the results from such equipment.
  • A bachelor's degree in a technical field is strongly preferred, or relevant years of qualified experience.
  • At least 5 years of experience in electrical, electronic, and/or network communications.
  • At least 5 years of experience with Medium Voltage equipment.
  • Prior experience with cold weld patch repairs and field transformer repairs.
  • Experience with pad mounted transformers, Medium Voltage Terminations, and operation of switchgears is preferred.
OTHER SPECIALIZED SKILLS
  • Ability to work nonstandard business hours occasionally to support service customer contracts.
  • Required weekend and/or night work is possible depending on customer requirements at the site.
  • Knowledge of solar and/or alternative energy markets is preferred.
  • Knowledge of the National Electric Code is preferred.
  • Advanced knowledge of power plant measurement devices and techniques is strongly preferred.
  • Ability to analyze and solve problems effectively is necessary.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel) is required.
  • Have direct interface with German counterparts for technical assistance and guidance on MV systems, and attend meetings with them on a daily or weekly basis.
  • This position requires significant domestic and international travel.
  • Extent of responsibility: Regional
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to travel, while at site; stand, walk, talk, hear, and observe surroundings. The employee is occasionally required to sit, reach above the shoulder, stoop, bend, squat, and kneel, and must routinely lift up to 50 pounds. The work environment is constrained to a field service environment, with occasional functions in a corporate office. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is occasionally exposed to electrical hazards, and exposure to weather of extreme temperatures. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

WE OFFER
  • Compensation: $38.00 to $45.00 per hour, dependent on experience and qualifications.
  • Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage, including $0 premium options.
  • Work Model: Remote.
  • 401(k) plan with company match.
  • Opportunities for professional development and training.
  • Inclusive, collaborative, and innovative work environment.

Our EEO Policy 

We are an equal opportunity employer and we make our employment decisions on the basis of merit and without regard to one's race, color, creed, sex (includes gender, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender identity, religion, marital status, age (over 40), national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability (includes HIV/Aids), medical condition (cancer, genetic characteristics), veteran's status, sexual orientation, or any other consideration made unlawful by law.
In accordance with applicable law protecting qualified individuals with known disabilities, SMA will attempt to reasonably accommodate qualified applicants with known disabilities, unless doing so would create an undue hardship on SMA. Any qualified applicant with a disability who believes he or she requires an accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of the job for which he or she is applying should identify the accommodation(s) needed in the application.

Our Privacy Policy

During your job application or recruitment process with us: (a) SMA may collect your personal information directly from you, such as when you submit your application and resume on our online portal or when you have job interviews with us. We may also obtain your personal information from third parties, including but not limited to your former employers, background or employment check service providers or third-party recruiters; and, (b) SMA may use or process applicants' personal information for relevant purposes including but not limited to general communications with you, identity verification, background or employment checks, determination of eligibility, and making hiring decisions. For successful job applicants who become SMA's staff, we may retain and integrate your personal information collected during the recruitment process into your records at SMA. For unsuccessful job applicants, [SMA may retain your application for internal records or for future recruitment purposes].

If you are a California resident, you have specific rights regarding your personal information under the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018, as amended including by the California Privacy Rights Act of 2020, and its implementing regulations (the "CCPA"). This Company Personnel and Covered Individuals Privacy Notice for California Residents issued by SMA is applicable to you and explains your CCPA rights and our collection, use or disclosure of your personal information.

If you have any question regarding our privacy policy, please contact us at US_DataPrivacy@sma-america.com