Tailings Basin - 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 of teamwork, agility, and ownership, 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 Tailings Basin Operator/Maintainer is responsible for the safe operation, inspection, troubleshooting, and minor maintenance of equipment throughout the Tailings Basin. This hybrid role is designed to support operational reliability by combining Tailings Basin operations responsibilities with hands‑on maintenance activities.

Employees in this position are expected to operate and monitor tailings systems while proactively identifying and correcting minor equipment issues before they impact production. The Tailings Basin Operator/Maintainer works closely with Operations, Maintenance, and Reliability teams to maximize tailings pipeline availability 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.

• 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 site.
• Support dust control, spill prevention, and environmental compliance activities.
• Participate in safety meetings, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Operate and monitor equipment within the Tailings Basin.
• Conduct routine inspections of Tailings Basin equipment and document findings.
• Monitor 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.
• Monitor tailings pipeline and pumping operations.

• Replace hoses, fittings, and gaskets.
• Perform greasing and lubrication activities.
• Tighten and replace guards, handrails, and hardware.
• Perform basic pump and valve maintenance.
• Assist with lockout/tagout activities.
• Perform basic carpentry jobs.
• Clean and service equipment during scheduled downtime.
• Utilize hand and power tools safely and effectively.
• Identify equipment deficiencies and generate maintenance notifications/work requests.
• Assist during outages, shutdowns, pipeline change-outs, and major repairs.
• Participate in preventive and predictive maintenance programs.
• Inspect for plugging, wear, leaks, and abnormal equipment conditions.
• Perform minor repairs and adjustments as required.
• Conduct equipment inspections and complete minor maintenance tasks.