Front End Loader Operator

Job Summary

The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment, including front-end loaders with buckets, forklifts (12,000 lb. capacity or smaller) with rotators, bobcats, and skid steers, to support daily recycling operations. The Equipment Operator must follow all company safety policies, procedures, and Golden Rules while maintaining equipment through daily inspections, routine maintenance, and housekeeping.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Safely operate heavy equipment under the direction of the Shift Supervisor or Production Manager.
• Operate front-end loaders, forklifts (12,000 lb. capacity or smaller), bobcats, and skid steer equipment.
• Load and unload trucks, rail cars, and barges, and move recyclable materials throughout the facility.
• Complete pre-shift equipment inspections and accurately document inspection results.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance, including lubricating, fueling, greasing, and cleaning equipment.
• Conduct end-of-shift equipment inspections and report any maintenance or safety concerns.
• Maintain clean equipment and work areas to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Sweep and shovel residual material from processing areas as needed.
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to workplace safety and operational excellence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED) required.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Minimum of 12 months of related equipment operating experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment in an industrial or recycling environment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and the ability to perform routine equipment maintenance.
• Strong commitment to safety and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to:

• Stand, walk, and operate heavy equipment for extended periods.
• Use hands to grasp, handle, and operate controls and tools.
• Reach with hands and arms.
• Bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb, and balance as necessary.
• Frequently enter and exit heavy equipment.
• Regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.

Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

 Work Environment

The work environment is primarily an industrial recycling facility where employees are regularly exposed to moving mechanical equipment, dust, dirt, vibration, varying weather conditions, and elevated noise levels. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times in accordance with company safety policies.