Loader Operator

Strategic Materials; United States; On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Sibelco in Delavan is seeking a Loader Operator to operate an industrial loader (heavy equipment) for loading end dump trailers and plant hoppers, while performing routine maintenance. The role requires completion of safety training and adherence to procedures, with ability to work outdoors in varied conditions.

Prior experience with powered industrial vehicles is preferred; strong safety practices and reliability are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED preferred; experience operating powered industrial vehicles preferred.
• Glass processing knowledge preferred and ability to follow specific oral instructions.
• Must successfully complete training including safety standards and driving ability.

Responsibilities

• Operate loader using safe practices.
• Inspect loader prior to shift start and report unsafe issues.
• Preventative maintenance will need to be done on the Loader.
• Load trucks with material.
• Load hoppers with assigned material for production.
• Track load count per material processed.
• Move material to assigned bunkers or staging area.
• Report incidents/accidents/near miss to shift supervisor.
• Identify possible cross contamination issues in storage areas.
• Identify and report environmental hazards to the shift supervisor.

Skills

Glass processing knowledge

Oral instructions following

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Front End Loader

Forklift

Electric Pallet Jack

Hand Pallet Jack

Other heavy machinery

Job description

Loader Operator Location: Delavan

At Sibelco, we advance life through materials. For over 150 years, we’ve been a trusted leader in sourcing, transforming, and distributing specialty industrial minerals. Our work powers progress across industries as diverse as glass, ceramics, construction, coatings, polymers, and water purification. Beyond our materials, we’re proud of our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and empowering people from all walks of life to thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Are We the Perfect Match?

At Sibelco, we believe building a successful career is a two-way journey. We’re looking for individuals who share our values and vision, just as much as you’re seeking a company that aligns with your aspirations. Together, we can shape the future.

Job Description

Role Purpose:

A Loader Operator operates Industrial Loader (heavy equipment, not forklift) to load end dump trailer and plant hoppers with material, and perform general maintenance (grease, check oil) on equipment.

Responsibilities:

• Must successfully complete training that includes SMI safety standards and a demonstration of driving ability.
• Operate loader using safe practices.
• Inspect loader prior to shift start and report unsafe issues.
• Preventative maintenance will need to be done on the Loader.
• Fuel loader using safe practices.
• Load trucks with material.
• Load hoppers with assigned material for production.
• Track load count per material processed.
• Move material to assigned bunkers or staging area.
• Report incidents/accidents/near miss to shift supervisor.
• Identify any possible cross contamination issues in storage areas.
• Identify and report to the shift supervisor any potential environmental hazards such as- odors, litter, excessive bird presence, vermin or leachate emanating from storage and other areas of the yard.
• Wear appropriate site specific personal protective equipment (PPE), as required.
• Understand and adhere to all company operating procedures and company safety policies.
• Any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.

REQUIRED SKILS/ABILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Glass processing knowledge, preferred. Understand and follow specific oral instructions.

REQUIRED PHYSICAL ABILITIES:

The physical abilities listed below are bona fide occupational requirements for this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Mobility: Bending – bending/twisting at the waist will be required for extended periods. Standing – standing for extended periods may be required. Walking – walking on flat or uneven surfaces, up and down stairs and on grass or gravel will be required. Sitting – sitting at certain workstations or in powered industrial vehicles may be required. Climbing – will need to climb stairs and climb ladders. Articulation: Lifting/Carrying – lifting loads up to 50 pounds may be required, assisting in lifting heavy loads with others may be required. Reaching – the ability to extend arms fully is required. Grasping – the ability to close both hands to grasp small objects is required. Repetitive Movements – the ability to reach and grasp for extended period is required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

High School diploma or GED preferred. Experience operating powered industrial vehicles preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described below represents the characteristics an employee will experience while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The job requires exposure to the following conditions: Heights – work at heights above 48 inches may require the wearing of additional safety equipment. Dust/Fumes – when required employees must be able to wear respiratory protective equipment and/or participate in medical exams as part of our respiratory protection program. Extreme Heat/Cold – most operational areas are not heated or cooled. Wind – must be able to operate outdoors. Rain/Snow – work surfaces may become slippery, appropriate work shoes are required. Uneven Terrain – employees may be required to walk on surfaces where materials are accumulated, appropriate work shoes are required. High Noise Levels - employees may be required to wear hearing protection and/or complete hearing examinations as part of our hearing conservation program.

EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS:

• Front End Loader
• Forklift
• Electric Pallet Jack
• Hand Operated Pallet Jack
• Other heavy machinery as required

The ability to complete additional on-site training will be required before these vehicles can be used at an SMI facility.

Employee Type: Permanent

Why Join Us?

Sibelco is more than a workplace—it’s a community that encourages growth, innovation, and collaboration. Here’s what you can look forward to when you join our team: Meet Our People: Careers Learn About Our Recruitment Process: Learn More Discover Our Sustainability Goals: Sibelco priorities We also welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments to support you through the selection process.

Be part of something special. If you are looking for a fast-moving, diverse and challenging career where you can make a real difference, Sibelco could be the right company for you. Scroll down to explore our latest career opportunities and learn more about what it is like to work at Sibelco.