Groundsman / Loader Operator
Job Summary
The Groundman / Loader Operator is responsible for supporting daily quarry operations by performing general labor duties, maintaining a safe and organized work environment, and operating heavy equipment, including a front-end loader, as needed. This position plays a critical role in ensuring efficient production while maintaining safety, quality, and housekeeping standards throughout the quarry.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Operate a front-end loader to feed crushing and screening plants, load customer trucks, stockpile materials, and maintain material inventory.
- Perform daily inspections and routine maintenance of equipment, reporting any mechanical issues promptly.
- Assist with setup, operation, and maintenance of crushing and screening equipment.
- Clean and maintain conveyor systems, crushers, screens, hoppers, and work areas to ensure safe operating conditions.
- Perform general quarry labor, including shoveling, greasing equipment, replacing wear parts, and assisting mechanics with repairs.
- Direct customer and truck traffic safely throughout the quarry.
- Conduct pre-operational inspections and complete required equipment inspection reports.
- Assist with plant start-up and shutdown procedures.
- Monitor material quality and report any production or equipment issues to supervisors.
- Follow all MSHA regulations, company safety policies, and environmental procedures.
- Work safely around heavy equipment, blasting operations, and moving machinery.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Previous quarry, mining, construction, or heavy equipment experience preferred.
- Experience operating a front-end loader required.
- MSHA Part 46 or Part 48 training preferred (or ability to obtain).
- Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to safety.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 75 pounds.
- Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and work on uneven terrain.
- Frequently stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb throughout the workday.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, dust, and noise.
- Must be able to wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Safe operation of front-end loaders and other heavy equipment.
- Knowledge of aggregate production and quarry operations is preferred.
- Ability to identify equipment problems and communicate them effectively.
- Excellent attention to safety and detail.
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced production environment.
Work Environment
This position is performed primarily in an active quarry environment with exposure to heavy equipment, moving machinery, dust, vibration, noise, and varying weather conditions. Strict adherence to all safety policies and MSHA regulations is required.
Preferred Experience
- Front-end loader operation
- Aggregate or quarry operations
- Crushing and screening equipment
- Heavy equipment operation
- Preventive equipment maintenance
- MSHA safety standards
Work Location: In person
