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 walkaround 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.

NAES Safe

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 include underground or surface settings, confined spaces, low-clearance areas, and restricted pathways. Work may require crawling, kneeling, or stooping in tight quarters, with exposure to coal dust, fumes, vibration, high noise levels, moisture, extreme temperatures, and low-light conditions. Outdoor or remote work may involve changing weather conditions.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required and may include hard hats, safety glasses or goggles, steel-toed boots, respiratory and hearing protection, gloves (including hot- and cut-resistant), flame-resistant clothing (FRC), and fall protection harnesses. Respirator fit testing may be required. Strict no-smoking policies apply in and around the mine site and designated work zones.

Fitness for Duty

All personnel will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program, which includes a post-offer physical examination, drug screening, and post-employment random drug screening.

Work Schedule

The Heavy Equipment Operator follows DuPont’s rotating 12-hour shift schedule, providing 24/7 coverage through a structured rotation of day and night shifts. This position will require extended hours, flexible shifts, weekends, and holidays as needed to support plant operations and business needs and may also require callout availability. Depending on the position, on-call status may or may not apply.

Compensation

This position offers a base pay rate ranging from $28 to $38 per hour, along with eligibility for an annual performance bonus.

Core Qualifications and Skills

• Ability to understand procedures and instructions specific to the area of assignment as would be acquired in four years of high school.
• Proven experience operating heavy mining equipment is preferred, demonstrating safe and efficient handling.
• Prior experience in a mining environment is preferred, contributing to a strong understanding of industry practices.
• Familiarity with mine road and pit operations is preferred, ensuring smooth workflow and safety compliance.
• Proficiency in the safe operation of various heavy mining equipment is preferred, with a focus on minimizing downtime and maintaining productivity.
• Knowledge of preventive maintenance procedures and equipment inspection to help ensure operational reliability.
• Basic mechanical skills to assist with equipment repairs as needed, supporting maintenance teams effectively.
• Ability to conduct hazard analyses and actively participate in Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) processes to maintain a safe work environment.
• Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members, supervisors, and external partners, fostering a cooperative work environment.
• Proficiency in documenting equipment operation, maintenance activities, and safety incidents with accuracy and clarity.
• Attention to detail in following instructions and maintaining accurate records to support operational excellence.
• Must possess a valid, unrestricted U.S. driver’s license and ensure it remains in good standing at all times.

About NAES

NAES Corporation is a leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We serve clients across the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors throughout North America and internationally, supporting the full life cycle of power generation and other industrial facilities.

NAES is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on merit and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status, USERRA-protected status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.