What are the responsibilities and job description for the Heavy Equipment Operator position at Highland Pellets?
About Highland Pellets
Highland Pellets is committed to producing sustainable biomass wood pellets as an environmentally responsible alternative to fossil fuels. Our mission extends beyond manufacturing—we support lower emissions, healthy forests, and strong communities. Safety, quality, and operational excellence are at the core of everything we do.
Position Overview
The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating various types of heavy machinery to support plant operations. This role involves material handling, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure smooth and efficient production processes.
Key Responsibilities :
- Operate heavy equipment, including loaders, Sky Tracks, forklifts, skid steers, man lifts, and scissor lifts.
- Manage and groom reclaim piles, addressing any operational issues as needed.
- Monitor and maintain ash conveyors and oversee the proper disposal of hoppers throughout the facility.
- Inspect and maintain fireboxes and extinguishers for assigned production lines.
- Serve as a backup loader operator during production upsets, assisting with clearing lines and replenishing bins.
- Identify and resolve material flow issues, such as plugs in bark bins or fuel hoppers, while ensuring tail rolls remain clean for uninterrupted operations.
- Cross-train in load-out operations, control room functions, and pellet mill floor procedures to provide coverage and maintain workforce flexibility.
Qualifications & Requirements :
Equal Employment Opportunity
Highland Pellets is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by law. We comply with all applicable state and local employment regulations.
