Concentrator​/Pellet Plant - Operator​/Maintainer

Plant Operator/Maintainer

When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics, you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment, supporting environmental stewardship and generating value for all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesota's mining history:
Mesabi Metallics' cutting-edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Once completed, it will mark the first new mine and pellet plant in Minnesota in nearly 50 years. More importantly, you'll be immersed in a positive, supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values which are sustainability, integrity, inclusivity, innovation, teamwork, determination and performance, and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day.

At Mesabi Metallics, you are part of a legacy of excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.

The Plant Operator/Maintainer is responsible for the safe operation, inspection, troubleshooting, and minor maintenance of equipment throughout the Crusher, Concentrator, and Pellet Plant. This hybrid role is designed to support operational reliability by combining plant operations responsibilities with hands-on maintenance activities. Employees in this position are expected to operate and monitor plant systems while proactively identifying and correcting minor equipment issues before they impact production.

The Plant Operator/Maintainer works closely with Operations, Maintenance, and Reliability teams to maximize plant availability, maintain product quality, and ensure safe and efficient production. This position is ideal for individuals with a strong mechanical aptitude who enjoy both operating equipment and performing light mechanical work in a continuous 24/7 mining environment.

Reporting to the Operations Shift Leader – Plant Operator/Maintainer will be responsible for the following:

• Follow all company, MSHA and environmental policies and procedures.
• Conduct workplace examinations and identify unsafe conditions.
• Exercise Stop Work Authority when necessary.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards throughout the plant.
• Support dust control, spill prevention, and environmental compliance activities.
• Participate in safety meetings, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Operate and monitor equipment within the Crusher, Concentrator, and Pellet Plant.
• Conduct routine inspections of process equipment and document findings.
• Monitor control systems and respond to alarms or abnormal operating conditions.
• Assist with plant startups, shutdowns, and process adjustments.
• Record production data, shift activities, and equipment observations.
• Maintain communication with control room personnel, supervisors, and maintenance teams.
• Support production objectives while ensuring quality specifications are achieved.

• Perform minor mechanical maintenance activities, including:
• Belt tracking and adjustments.
• Screen panel replacement.
• Hose, fitting, and gasket replacement.
• Greasing and lubrication activities.
• Changing filters and strainers.
• Tightening and replacing guards, handrails, and hardware.
• Replacing rollers, idlers, and minor conveyor components.
• Basic pump and valve maintenance.
• Assisting with lockout/tagout activities.
• Cleaning and servicing equipment during scheduled downtime.
• Utilize hand and power tools safely and effectively.
• Identify equipment deficiencies and generate maintenance notifications/work requests.
• Assist maintenance personnel during outages, shutdowns, and major repairs.
• Participate in preventative and predictive maintenance programs.

• Monitor crushers, feeders, screens, and conveyor systems.
• Inspect for plugging, wear, leaks, and abnormal equipment conditions.
• Perform minor repairs and adjustments as required.
• Support ore handling and blending activities.

• Monitor grinding circuits, pumps, separators, thickeners, and filtration systems.
• Collect process samples and support process optimization efforts.
• Conduct equipment inspections and complete minor maintenance tasks.

• Monitor balling discs/drums, furnaces, conveyors, and pellet handling systems.
• Perform inspections and minor maintenance on process equipment.
• Support pellet quality objectives and material handling activities.
• Assist during planned shutdowns and equipment change-outs.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience in mining, mineral processing, manufacturing, or heavy industrial operations preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude with experience using hand and power tools.
• Experience performing minor mechanical maintenance activities preferred.
• Ability to read and understand…