Production Utility Operator

Drake; Paulden (AZ); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Drake, located in Paulden, Arizona, is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to support raw material production activities. The role involves operating front-end loaders and managing material handling tasks to ensure consistent supply for plant operations.

The successful candidate will have experience in heavy equipment operation and must comply with safety standards. This position requires a high school diploma and a valid driver’s license. Interested applicants can expect an opportunity to work in a dynamic industrial environment.

Qualifications

• Experience operating front-end loaders and other heavy equipment required.
• High school diploma or equivalent is necessary.
• Valid driver's license is required.

Responsibilities

• Operate front-end loaders and other heavy equipment to support production activities.
• Load and manage raw materials for plant operations.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance concerns.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Material handling practices

Safety compliance

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Front-end loaders

Job description

Role Summary

Supports production activities through the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment. Responsible for mining and handling raw materials, loading trucks, managing stockpiles, and supporting operational requirements to ensure a consistent supply of materials for plant operations. Works closely with Production, Maintenance, and Operations teams to maintain productivity, safety, and operational reliability.

Work Location

Paulden, Arizona & Williams, Arizona.

Assignment Duration

This position supports seasonal pozzolan production activities near Williams, Arizona, with operations currently planned through November 2026. During periods when pozzolan operations are inactive, the incumbent will support cement plant operations in Paulden, Arizona. Pozzolan production activities are expected to resume in March 2027, subject to operational requirements and business needs.

Purpose

Support raw material production and plant operations by operating heavy equipment and performing material handling activities necessary to mine, load, stockpile, and manage raw material inventory. Ensure operational efficiency while maintaining compliance with safety, environmental, and company standards.

Key Accountabilities

• Operate front-end loaders and other heavy equipment to support mining, material handling, stockpile management, and production activities.
• Load customer and internal haul trucks with raw materials in a safe and efficient manner.
• Manage raw material stockpiles and support inventory control activities.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance concerns.
• Support continuous material availability for plant operations.
• Follow all safety procedures, environmental requirements, and operating standards.
• Maintain housekeeping and safe working conditions within assigned areas.
• Complete operational inspections, logs, and required documentation.
• Coordinate with Production and Maintenance personnel to support daily operational priorities.
• Assist with general production and material handling activities as required.
• Support operational efficiency through safe and reliable equipment operation.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of heavy equipment operation and material handling practices.
• Understanding of mining, quarry, aggregate, cement, or industrial operations preferred.
• Familiarity with multiple types of heavy equipment and safe operating practices.
• Knowledge of workplace safety requirements and hazard identification.
• Understanding of material stockpile management and production support activities.

Problem Solving

• Identifies operational issues that may impact material availability or production.
• Recognizes equipment performance concerns and communicates maintenance needs.
• Adjusts to changing production priorities while maintaining safety and efficiency.
• Responds effectively to operational challenges in a heavy industrial environment.

Interactions and Influence

• Frequent interaction with Production Supervisors, Plant Operators, and Maintenance personnel.
• Coordinates daily activities to support production requirements.
• Promotes safe work practices through consistent adherence to company procedures.
• Supports team objectives through effective communication and collaboration.

Impact

• Direct: Supports raw material production targets and material availability for plant operations.
• Indirect: Contributes to operational efficiency, equipment reliability, workplace safety, and overall production performance.

Experience and Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience operating front-end loaders and other heavy equipment required.
• Experience in mining, aggregate, quarry, cement, construction materials, or industrial environments preferred.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Full proficiency in English. Spanish desirable.

Success Profile

• Safety focused and dependable.
• Demonstrates sound judgment and equipment operating skills.
• Reliable, accountable, and team oriented.
• Strong work ethic and commitment to operational excellence.
• Adaptable in a fast-paced industrial environment.
• Role model of UNA Culture values.