Heavy Machine Operator – Mining Vehicle Industry

truckingpeople; Safford (AZ); On-site; USD 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

truckingpeople in Safford, AZ is seeking skilled Heavy Machine Operators to support safe operation, testing and readiness of 20-ton mining vehicles. You\'ll work hands-on with autonomous systems in a fast-growing mining tech environment.

Initial training may occur in Sunol, CA before transitioning to Safford. You will perform safety inspections, support hardware and software testing, and travel up to 50% to field operations while upholding the highest safety standards.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of verifiable heavy machinery operation (mining/industrial preferred).
• Comfortable operating and backing 20-ton vehicles; able to drive for extended periods.
• Pass DOT requirements (drug test, background check, MVR/physical).
• Clean driving record with limited violations in past years.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate and maneuver 20-ton mining vehicles and other heavy equipment.
• Perform pre-trip/post-trip inspections; complete DVIRs and report issues.
• Support hardware & software testing with clear written/verbal feedback.
• Uphold the highest safety and compliance standards; ensure vehicle readiness.
• Travel up to 50% for field operations and testing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth operations and data capture.

Skills

Heavy machinery operation

Safety-focused

Teamwork

CDL-A preferred

Autonomous tech interest

Job description

Location: Safford AZ, United States
Environment: In-person
Pay Rate: $32.00 per hour
Schedule: Full-time (30+ hours/week)

About the Role

We’re seeking skilled Heavy Machine Operators to support the safe operation, testing, and performance readiness of large-scale mining vehicles. You’ll work hands-on with cutting-edge heavy equipment and autonomous vehicle systems in a fast-growing automotive technology environment.

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you’ll operate and maintain 20-ton mining vehicles, perform safety inspections, and assist with hardware and software testing. You’ll also collaborate with engineering teams, providing actionable feedback to improve system reliability and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate and maneuver 20-ton mining vehicles and other heavy equipment.

• Perform pre-trip/post-trip inspections, complete DVIRs, and promptly report issues.

• Support hardware & software testing, delivering clear written and verbal feedback.

• Uphold the highest safety and compliance standards; ensure vehicle readiness.

• Travel up to 50% to support field operations and testing.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure smooth operations and data capture.

Daily Tasks

• Execute thorough equipment safety inspections.

• Operate and back 20-ton mining vehicles in varied environments.

• Record and communicate performance feedback to engineering/test teams.

• Represent the company professionally and reinforce a strong safety culture.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of verifiable heavy machinery operation (mining/industrial preferred).

• Comfortable operating and backing 20-ton vehicles; able to drive for extended periods.

• CDL-A preferred but not required.

• Must pass background check, road test, and all DOT requirements (drug test, MVR, physical).

• Clean driving record, including:

  • ≤ 2 minor moving violations in the past 3 years

  • No serious traffic violations in the past 5 years

  • No DUI/DWI/OUI or reckless driving involving alcohol/drugs in the past 10 years

  • No preventable accidents in the past 3 years

  • No preventable DOT recordables in the past 10 years

• Strong teamwork, professionalism, and communication.

• Ability to interpret/apply laws, rules, regulations, and company policies.

• Interest in driver-assistance and autonomous technology; willing to learn.

Initial training may be held in Sunol, CA for one week before transitioning to Safford AZ.

Why Join Us

• Join a fast-growing autonomous vehicle company driving innovation in heavy machinery and mining technology.

• Work with advanced vehicles in real-world test environments.

• Competitive pay, strong team culture, and room to grow.