Grinder Operator

About the role:

The Grinder Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive operation of the CBI 6800 horizontal grinder. This position operates heavy equipment—including an excavator as the primary loading machine and a wheel loader when necessary—to process incoming material while maintaining consistent production goals and product quality. The Grinder Operator is expected to take ownership of the equipment by keeping it clean, properly maintained, and operating at peak performance.

What you'll do:

• Safely operate the CBI 6800 Horizontal Grinder in accordance with company policies and manufacturer guidelines.
• Load and feed material into the grinder using an excavator and operate a wheel loader as needed.
• Maintain a consistent material flow to maximize production, prevent overloads, and minimize downtime.
• Monitor grinder performance and adjust feed rates based on material conditions and production requirements.
• Ensure finished product meets established quality and sizing specifications.
• Communicate operational concerns and equipment performance issues to supervisors promptly.
• Equipment Care and Maintenance
• Perform daily pre-operational inspections of the grinder, excavator, loader, and related equipment.
• Complete all required greasing and lubrication according to manufacturer recommendations.
• Inspect grinder components including screens, teeth, belts, conveyors, bearings, hydraulic systems, fluids, and other wear parts.
• Identify maintenance needs early and report required repairs before equipment failures occur.
• Assist maintenance personnel with troubleshooting and repair activities when appropriate.
• Maintain accurate equipment inspection reports, maintenance records, and operational logs.

• Maintain a clean and organized grinder, excavator, loader, and work area.
• Remove accumulated debris and prevent excessive buildup around moving equipment components.
• Wash and clean equipment as necessary to reduce dust, debris accumulation, and fire hazards.
• Demonstrate pride of ownership by maintaining equipment appearance and an orderly work environment.

• Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with company safety standards.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA regulations.
• Conduct thorough pre-shift inspections and immediately report unsafe conditions or equipment deficiencies.
• Maintain constant awareness of personnel, vehicles, and equipment operating in the area.
• Stop operations immediately when unsafe conditions develop and notify supervision.
• Participate in safety meetings, training programs, and workplace hazard assessments.

• Meet or exceed daily production goals established by management.
• Minimize downtime through proactive equipment operation, inspection, and preventive maintenance.
• Work closely with supervisors to prioritize incoming materials and production schedules.
• Communicate production challenges, maintenance concerns, and operational issues in a timely manner.
• Monitor material quality and processing efficiency to ensure optimal production results.
• Support plant and yard operations as needed to achieve production objectives.

• Safe operation of all assigned equipment.
• Consistent achievement of daily production targets.
• High-quality finished material with minimal contamination.
• Accurate completion of inspections and maintenance documentation.
• Reduced equipment downtime through preventive maintenance and early issue identification.
• Demonstration of teamwork, reliability, accountability, and professionalism.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience operating heavy equipment in aggregate, recycling, forestry, land-clearing, or material-processing operations.
• Extensive experience operating horizontal grinders, excavators, wheel loaders, and related production equipment.
• Proven ability to safely and efficiently operate the CBI 6800 Horizontal Grinder or similar grinding equipment.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and challenging work environments.
• Ability to work in high-dust environments and around dust suppression systems while maintaining productivity and safety.
• Strong commitment to safety, equipment care, and operational excellence.

• Highly skilled heavy equipment operator with advanced knowledge of grinding and material-processing operations.
• Proven ability to train, mentor, and develop operators on equipment operation, production practices, and safety procedures.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to lead by example, promote accountability, and support team success.
• Assertive decision-maker capable of addressing operational challenges and maintaining productivity under pressure.
• Excellent understanding of material flow management to maximize production while minimizing downtime.
• Strong equipment troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Advanced knowledge of preventive…