Front End Loader Operator

The Pit/Production Loader Operator is responsible for efficiently and safely operating a loader to load materials, such as rock, and gravel into haul trucks or feeder. The role requires a skilled operator who can maneuver heavy machinery in a mining environment while adhering to safety guidelines and maintaining productivity targets. Essential Functions • Operate and control the pit loader to load and move materials within the pit area. • Excavates quarry to maintain desired face, ramp and floor conditions including the construction and maintenance of safety berms. • Utilize the loader's controls to lift, tilt, and dump materials into designated areas or onto trucks/conveyors. • Handle attachments (buckets, forks, etc.) as needed for various tasks. • Ensure the safe operation of the loader and perform routine equipment maintenance checks. • Load materials efficiently, maintaining appropriate weight distribution and stability. • Follow loading instructions provided by supervisors or production plans to meet required tonnage targets. • Handle materials with care to prevent spills, waste, or damage to equipment and surrounding infrastructure. • Adhere to all safety regulations and protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). • Maintain awareness of surroundings, equipment, and personnel to prevent accidents or hazards. • Report any safety concerns, incidents, or equipment malfunctions to the supervisor promptly. • Contribute to a culture of safety awareness. • Collaborate with the production team to ensure materials are loaded according to schedule and production goals. • Optimize loading processes to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. • Communicate with truck drivers or conveyor operators to coordinate loading activities. • Perform thorough pre and post operation checks of the pit loader to identify safety or mechanical defects. • Report any maintenance needs or equipment issues to the maintenance department. • Maintain accurate records of materials loaded and unloaded. • Complete log sheets, work orders, and other documentation as required. • May direct and train others to operate and maintain the loader as required. Critical Competencies • Equipment Operation - Proficiency in operating large equipment, including understanding the controls, gauges, and indicators. Ability to manipulate equipment accurately and smoothly for various tasks. Skill in handling attachments and understanding their applications. • Safety Awareness - Ability to recognize, understand, and adhere to safety protocols and procedures in the workplace; proactive in identifying potential hazards, taking steps to mitigate risks, and ensuring that both personal and collective safety are maintained in all tasks and environments. • Technical Expertise - Solid mechanical understanding of mobile equipment, including basic maintenance checks and troubleshooting minor issues. Ability to identify signs of equipment malfunction and report them to the maintenance team. • Material Handling - Proficient in loading various materials onto trucks, conveyors, or other transport vehicles while maintaining load stability and distribution. Ability to estimate weights and volumes for optimal loading and transportation efficiency. • Problem Solving - Identify, analyze, and resolve work-related issues efficiently and effectively using practical knowledge, experience, and hands-on skills. This involves identifying the problem, diagnosing the cause, finding practical solutions, implementing fixes, and adapting to unexpected challenges. • Teamwork and Collaboration- Ability to work effectively and harmoniously with others to achieve common goals; contributes positively to group efforts, sharing knowledge, and being open to others' ideas and feedback. • Adaptability: Adapts to new conditions, is flexible and open-minded when facing challenges, and maintains high performance during