Job Description
Pit/Production Loader Operator
$1,500 Employee Referral Bonus Eligible
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.
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.
Hourly Range: the hourly range for this role is between $27.48 - $41.21. 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.
JD Disclaimer Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.
Job Info
- Job Identification 1177
- Job Category Single Plant Manufacturing
- Posting Date 09/24/2026, 07:49 PM
- Degree Level High School Graduate
- Job Schedule Full time
- Locations 100 Vulcan Quarry Rd, Stafford, VA, 22556, US (On-site)
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time, Flexible hours