Operator

U.S. Silica; Blair, Northern (NE, KY); Hybrid; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Silica in Blair, NE is seeking a Perlite Operator to run multiple production units, monitor control systems, and troubleshoot basic process issues with limited supervision.

You will follow SOPs, log data, participate in safety and GMP practices, and support maintenance and process improvements to sustain efficiency and product quality.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Strong technical and troubleshooting skills.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders and work from elevated platforms.
• Ability to use hand tools such as shovels, hammers, and wrenches.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks and work in an industrial environment.

Responsibilities

• Maintain safety and GMP compliance in daily operations.
• Operate the Perlite Plant per SOPs and production requirements.
• Monitor process conditions and record data, making adjustments as needed.
• Enter production receipts and finished goods data in JDE.
• Conduct quality control tests on process and finished products.
• Support process reliability and continuous improvement efforts.
• Assist with minor maintenance and report equipment issues.
• Communicate with the Perlite Foreman and team to meet goals.

Skills

Strong technical

Troubleshooting

Basic computer proficiency

Written and verbal communication

Independent work

Attention to detail

Multitasking in fast-paced environment

Overtime/weekend availability

Safety consciousness

Outdoor work in all weather

Stairs/ladders/elevated platforms

Hand tools (shovels, hammers, wrenches

Physically demanding industrial work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

JDE

Job description

The Perlite Operator Operates multiple production units, monitor control systems, and troubleshoots basic process issues with limited supervision.

Responsibilities

• Safety & Compliance:
  • Maintain a strong commitment to workplace safety and quality standards.
  • Conduct regular workplace inspections to identify and address potential safety hazards.
  • Ensure housekeeping standards are met and work areas are maintained in a clean and professional manner.
  • Adhere to all plant safety policies, procedures, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Operations Management:
  • Operate the Perlite Plant in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and production requirements.
  • Monitor process conditions, record operational data, and make necessary adjustments to maintain efficiency and meet production demand.
  • Utilize JDE software to enter production receipts and finished goods data accurately.
• Quality Assurance:
  • Conduct quality control testing on process and finished product samples.
  • Ensure products consistently meet quality specifications and customer requirements.
• Process Improvement:
  • Support process reliability and continuous improvement initiatives through ongoing monitoring, inspection, and optimization of operating conditions.
  • Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and equipment performance.
• Maintenance Support:
  • Assist with minor maintenance activities and equipment upkeep within the Perlite unit.
  • Report equipment issues and support troubleshooting efforts as needed.
• Maintain effective communication with the Perlite Foreman and other team members to support operational goals and plant performance.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Required:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Strong technical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Basic computer proficiency.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed.
  • Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to climb stairs and ladders and work from elevated platforms.
  • Ability to use hand tools such as shovels, hammers, and wrenches.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks and work in an industrial environment.
• Preferred:
  • 1+ years of experience in a process manufacturing environment.
  • Manufacturing experience.
  • Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) knowledge.
  • Forklift experience.
  • Warehouse experience.
  • Mechanical aptitude.
  • Welding experience.
  • Experience using production or manufacturing software systems, including JDE.

About Us

U.S. Silica is a leading producer of industrial minerals essential to modern life. With $1B+ in annual revenue, 26 production facilities, and industry-leading last-mile logistics for the oil & gas sector, we supply high-quality silica, diatomaceous earth, clay, and other materials to industries ranging from energy and construction to food & beverage.

As a portfolio company of Apollo Global Management, we are positioned for strategic growth in both our Oil & Gas and Industrial segments. For more than 100 years, our products and innovations have helped make the world cleaner, safer, and more energy-efficient.

U.S. Silica is an equal opportunity employer for all without regard to race, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. U.S. Silica is a smoke- and drug-free workplace.

Job Info

• Job Identification 532
• Job Category Operations
• Posting Date 06/04/2026, 08:04 PM
• Degree Level High School Diploma or GED
• Job Schedule Full time
• Locations 320 S Industrial Park Dr, Blair, NE, 68008, US (On-site)