Heavy Equipment Operator

Arauco; Malvern (AR); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit share

Health plans

Paid leave and holidays

Retirement contributions

Tuition reimbursement

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

ARAUCO in Malvern, AR is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to support our manufacturing operations by safely operating front end loaders, big lift forklifts, and standard forklifts to move materials and products throughout the facility. The role requires a high school diploma or GED, prior equipment experience, and the ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts.

A strong commitment to safety and teamwork is essential, with opportunities for growth and certification as part of our comprehensive

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous heavy equipment experience preferred (loaders, large forklifts, material handlers or similar).
• Ability to operate safely in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong commitment to safety, teamwork and operational excellence.
• Able to work rotating 12-hour shifts (days/nights/weekends/holidays).
• Experience with equipment inspections and material handling is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate heavy equipment to move raw materials and finished products.
• Load, unload, transport and stage materials to support production and shipping.
• Perform routine equipment inspections and pre-shift safety checks.
• Identify and report equipment concerns and safety issues promptly.
• Maintain accurate production, inventory and equipment records as required.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance and shipping teams for safe operations.
• Follow all safety, environmental requirements and operating standards.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Equipment inspection

Safety compliance

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Looking for a rewarding career with a company that values people, growth, sustainability, and teamwork?

Join our Malvern team as a Heavy Equipment Operator! This role supports our operations through the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment including front end Loaders, Big Lift Forklifts, and standard forklifts. What we are looking for:

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Previous experience operating heavy equipment, loaders, large forklifts, material handlers, construction equipment, or similar mobile equipment preferred
• Ability to safely work in a fast-paced manufacturing and industrial environment
• Strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and operational excellence
• Ability to work rotating 12-hour shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
• Experience with equipment inspections, material handling, and operating around production equipment is a plus

What we offer:

• Competitive pay plus a profit share/gain share program
• Health plans with options that meet your needs, including a wellness program, gym reimbursement, and additional benefits such as pet insurance, legal insurance, employer-paid and voluntary life insurance, and more
• Paid maternity and paternity leave, a competitive vacation package, and company and floating holidays designed to support your work-life balance
• Retirement planning options, including generous employer contributions
• Opportunities to learn and develop, including a tuition reimbursement program
• Long-term career growth with opportunities to train and certify on multiple pieces of equipment

In this role, you would:

• Safely operate heavy equipment, including Loaders, Big Lift Forklifts, and standard forklifts to move raw materials and finished products throughout the facility
• Load, unload, transport, and stage materials while supporting production and shipping activities
• Perform routine equipment inspections and complete pre-shift safety checks
• Identify and report equipment concerns, maintenance needs, and safety issues in a timely manner
• Maintain accurate production, inventory, and equipment records as required
• Work closely with production, maintenance, and shipping teams to ensure safe and efficient operations
• Follow all safety procedures, environmental requirements, and operating standards

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to climb in and out of heavy equipment multiple times throughout the shift
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and perform routine equipment inspections
• Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work 12-hour shifts in environments with dust, noise, moving equipment, and varying temperatures
• Must maintain the visual awareness and focus necessary to safely operate heavy equipment and work around pedestrians and mobile equipment

About Us

At ARAUCO, we’re more than a global leader in sustainable wood products—we’re a team driven by innovation, environmental stewardship, and strong core values. Committed to responsible forestry and quality craftsmanship, we create products that shape industries and protect the planet. Sustainability is central to everything we do—from responsible forestry to reducing environmental impact, we are dedicated to preserving natural resources for future generations.

Grow your career with purpose and help us shape a better future—one product, one idea, and one team at a time.

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Arauco is committed to creating an inclusive culture across the organization. Arauco is an equal opportunity employer to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Additionally, we demonstrate that commitment by preventing and removing barriers for persons with disabilities. Where it is not possible to remove barriers, Arauco will make efforts to accommodate persons with disabilities in a timely, effective and suitable manner. If you require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know.