What are the responsibilities and job description for the Heavy Equipment Operator position at HIGHLAND PELLETS LLC?
Description
Position Overview
The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating various types of heavy machinery to support plant operations. This role involves material handling, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure smooth and efficient production processes.
- Operate heavy equipment, including loaders, Sky Tracks, forklifts, skid steers, man lifts, and scissor lifts.
- Manage and groom reclaim piles, addressing any operational issues as needed.
- Monitor and maintain ash conveyors and oversee the proper disposal of hoppers throughout the facility.
- Inspect and maintain fireboxes and extinguishers for assigned production lines.
- Serve as a backup loader operator during production upsets, assisting with clearing lines and replenishing bins.
- Identify and resolve material flow issues, such as plugs in bark bins or fuel hoppers, while ensuring tail rolls remain clean for uninterrupted operations.
- Cross-train in load-out operations, control room functions, and pellet mill floor procedures to provide coverage and maintain workforce flexibility.
Requirements
- High school diploma, or equivalent required.
- Minimum of two years of experience operating heavy equipment in an industrial, manufacturing, or construction setting.
- Must successfully complete written and field training on loaders, forklifts, skid steers, and other equipment as required.
- Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions.
- Willingness to work extended hours, rotating shifts, and in outdoor environments.
- Physical ability to climb ladders, stairs, and scaffolding; work at heights over 80 feet; and operate within confined spaces.
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and perform tasks such as stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, shoveling, and raking to maintain a clean and safe work area.