Heavy Equipment Operator
Listed on 2026-11-05
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Trades / Skilled Labor
General Labor, Maintenance Technician / Mechanic, Heavy Equipment Operator
This posting is for current temp-to-full-time employees only. External applicants will not be considered at this time.
The Walnut Creek Coal Mine is a prominent surface coal mine featuring state-of-the-art equipment, including an 80-cubic-yard dragline, a 29-cubic-yard mass excavator, a 24-cubic-yard hydraulic backhoe, and a fleet of 150-ton end-dump trucks. The captive lignite operation produces over 2 million tons annually and uses a blending program to ensure consistent-quality fuel for a 308-megawatt power plant.
Opportunity Summary
The Heavy Equipment Operator will be responsible for operating a variety of heavy mining equipment, conduct preventive maintenance, and actively participate in hazard analysis to identify and mitigate potential risks. Additionally, the operator will collaborate with team members, and engage in ongoing training to maintain industry best practices, ultimately contributing to the efficient and safe mining operations while conserving resources and maintaining strong supplier relationships.
Your scope of responsibility as Heavy Equipment Operator includes the following primary functions:
- Perform all tasks in strict compliance with the Walnut Creek Mining Company Safety Handbook, prioritizing safety above all else.
- Skillfully operate a range of heavy mining equipment, including haul trucks, water trucks, track-type dozers, excavators, and motor graders, on mine roads and in pit areas.
- Conduct thorough walk around inspections of equipment before operation, complete associated paperwork, and identify maintenance needs promptly to minimize downtime.
- Participate in Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) to assess pit and road conditions, identifying and mitigating potential risks before commencing work.
- Maintain a high standard of cleanliness and organization in equipment to ensure optimal functionality and safety.
- Utilize radio communication systems in compliance with FCC and Walnut Creek Mining Company regulations to facilitate coordination and information sharing with other team members.
- When necessary, provide support to the mechanic during critical equipment repairs, and acquire proficiency in certain maintenance tasks as part of the skills development program.
- Carry out instructions provided in written, oral, or diagram form, maintaining a high level of precision and attention to detail.
- Maintain accurate records of equipment operation, fuel consumption, maintenance activities, and safety incidents in accordance with established guidelines.
- Be prepared to respond to emergency situations and follow established emergency procedures, contributing to a safe working environment.
- Collaborate effectively with other mine personnel, geologists, engineers, and geotechnical experts to ensure efficient mining operations.
- If required, load materials onto. Transportation to processing or storage facilities.
- Stay up to date with industry best practices, safety regulations, and equipment operation techniques. Obtain and maintain necessary certifications for heavy equipment operation.
- Provide regular progress reports to supervisors, including daily production figures, equipment status, and safety incident reports.
- Implement resource conservation practices, minimizing wastage of resources such as fuel and water.
- Work collaboratively with other equipment operators and mining personnel to ensure the smooth flow of mining operations.
- Maintain open communication with equipment suppliers and vendors for spare parts and repair services.
- Perform other tasks and projects as assigned.
Safety is a core value at NAES, and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to remain mentally alert and work safely at all times. Employees must also adhere to all safety warnings and posted signs while on company property. Additionally, they are required to follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Adherence to these safety responsibilities is one of the key factors in the evaluation of each employee’s performance.
Working Relationships
The Heavy Equipment Operator reports to the Operations Superintendent and responds to directions from the Operations Manager, and Mine Manager.
Physical Requirements And Working Conditions
Physical requirements include prolonged standing and walking on uneven, rough, or inclined surfaces; climbing stairs, ladders, and equipment; and working at heights or in confined locations. Frequent lifting, carrying, and maneuvering of materials or tools weighing up to 50 pounds is expected.
Coal mining environments may…
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