Hot Pit Loader Operator - Jackson, TN

SMS Mill Services, LLC.; Jackson (TN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

SMS Mill Services, LLC in Jackson, TN, is seeking a highly skilled Hot Pit Loader Operator for our slag processing operations. The role demands extensive experience with large heavy equipment in a hot slag environment, operating CAT 980 loaders and a slag pot carrier, and driving a 621 tractor.

You will work safely, coordinate with crew, perform daily inspections, maintain the yard, and support general labor as needed. A strong safety mindset and proven reliability are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Requires 5+ years with CAT 980 loaders and 621 size tractors.
• 3+ years operating hydraulic excavator and wheel loader.
• 2+ years with skid steer and forklift.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Experience in a fast-paced industrial environment.
• Safety-focused with adherence to HSE standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment (loaders, cranes, excavator, forklifts, skid steers).
• Move scrap material around the yard.
• Assist in day-to-day manual labor when machinery is not needed.
• Keep the yard clean.
• Coordinate machine actions with crew signals.
• Prevent hazards and obstructions.
• Perform daily inspections and preventive maintenance on equipment.
• Cross-train in other positions and assist others as needed.
• May perform general labor duties including sweeping, shoveling and material handling.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

CAT 980 loaders

621 size tractors

Hydraulic excavator

Wheel loader with forks

Skid steer

Forklift operation

Safety-focused

Equipment inspection

Job description

SMS Mill Services, LLC ("SMS") is a leader in the steel mill services industry. SMS provides a comprehensive range of services for steel mill customers. We partner with our customers to design custom, cost-effective solutions that focus on adding value and achieving operational and environmental goals. Our range of services includes, but is not limited to, scrap yard management, finished and semi-finished product services, melt shop services, logistics and transportation support, and slag processing.

SMS is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Hot Pit Loader Operator to join our team in Jackson, TN. This specialty position requires extensive experience operating heavy equipment in hot slag processing operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for operating large mobile equipment, including CAT 980 loaders and slag pot carriers, while safely handling molten and processed slag materials in a demanding industrial environment. This role requires a strong commitment to safety, equipment care, productivity, and operational excellence.

SUMMARY

• This position will operate CAT 980 size loaders (10 cubic yard bucket or larger) and a Slag Pot carrier with a 621 size tractor hauling liquid Slag. (MUST HAVE PRIOR EXPERIENCE)
• Equipment Operator is responsible for the operation of various pieces of heavy equipment in a safe and effective manner while moving material for processing.
• Equipment Operator operates heavy equipment while ensuring that all of his/her efforts are compliant with the company’s Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate heavy equipment of various sizes and weights including but not limited to loaders, cranes, excavator, forklifts, skid steers, etc.
• Move scrap material around the yard
• Operate various forklifts, pallet jacks, and assist in day-to-day manual labor tasks and activities when machinery does not need to be operated
• Keep the yard clean
• Coordinate machine actions with other activities, such as positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members
• Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as other equipment, workers, or moving objects
• Perform daily inspections, safety checks, preventive maintenance, and repairs of equipment; check required fluids and grease equipment. Report any equipment deficiencies or malfunctions to the proper supervisor
• Willingness to cross-train in other positions and assist other employees as needed
• Potential to perform general labor duties which may/may not include sweeping, raking, shoveling/snow removal, general clean-up of work area and equipment, and physically handling materials and supplies
• Other job-related duties as assigned

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

• 5+ years’ experience with CAT 980 loaders and 621 size tractors
• 3+ years’ experience operating a hydraulic excavator and wheel loader with forks and buckets
• 2+ years’ experience with skid steer and forklift
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to drive an automobile required

SMS Mill Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. SMS Mill Services, LLC makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.