Surface Operator: Heavy Equipment & Safety Specialist

International Minerals Carlsbad; Carlsbad (NM); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

International Minerals Carlsbad, INC. is seeking a safety-focused Surface Operator to support its Storage and Loading operations.

This role handles bulk loading of railcars and trucks, operates heavy equipment, and assists coworkers with daily production tasks, while maintaining strict safety practices. The candidate will complete all phases of the Storage and Loading training program and demonstrate proficiency through required equipment qualification tests.

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or trade school education.
• Ability and willingness to complete all phases of the Storage and Loading training program.
• Ability to complete the required qualification tests for assigned equipment.
• Ability to operate or learn to operate front-end loaders, forklifts, dump trucks, shuttle wagons, vacuum trucks, and skid steers.
• Basic knowledge of storage and loading processes and equipment.
• Ability to understand process interactions, equipment capabilities, and operational constraints.
• Ability to read, write, follow instructions, and perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Ability to analyze operating conditions, monitor processes, and learn new procedures.
• Ability to plan assigned work and exercise sound independent judgment.
• Ability to identify and correct routine problems.
• Ability to use the tools and equipment required to perform assigned duties.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrated dependability, good attendance, initiative, and commitment to safety.

Responsibilities

• Load bulk material into railcars and trucks safely and accurately.
• Operate front-end loaders, forklifts, dump trucks, shuttle wagons, vacuum trucks, and skid steers.
• Complete required training and equipment qualification tests for assigned machinery.
• Inspect equipment before use and report mechanical, operational, or safety concerns.
• Open and close railcar doors while using required fall-protection equipment.
• Perform work on top of railcars and in other elevated areas when assigned.
• Wash equipment, scales, and designated work areas.
• Assist with vacuum-truck activities and the removal of dust and accumulated material from tunnels.
• Clean screens, screws, tunnels, loading areas, and related production equipment.
• Perform manual cleanup using shovels, sledgehammers, power tools, and other approved equipment.
• Assist coworkers with loading, cleanup, equipment operation, and other production activities.
• Monitor storage and loading processes and recognize operational problems or equipment limitations.
• Identify and correct routine problems within the scope of the position.
• Follow operating instructions and learn new equipment, processes, and procedures.
• Maintain safe, clean, and orderly work areas.
• Use required personal protective equipment and follow all company safety rules and procedures.
• Encourage crew members to comply with established safety requirements.
• Perform additional surface production and storage and loading duties as assigned.

Skills

Independent work

Dependability

Safety mindset

Analytical thinking

Reading & math skills

Education

High school diploma / GED / trade school

Tools

Front-end loaders

Forklifts

Dump trucks

Shuttle wagons

Vacuum trucks

Skid steers

Job description

International Minerals Carlsbad, INC. is seeking a safety-focused Surface Operator to support its Storage and Loading operations.

This role handles bulk loading of railcars and trucks, operates heavy equipment, and assists coworkers with daily production tasks, while maintaining strict safety practices. The candidate will complete all phases of the Storage and Loading training program and demonstrate proficiency through required equipment qualification tests.