Job Summary:   The Heavy Equipment Operator in the mine is responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery used in the extraction, transport, and handling of raw materials such as clay and shale. This role requires adherence to strict safety protocols, efficiency in equipment operation, and coordination with production teams to ensure the continuous supply of materials to the brick manufacturing process.   Work Schedule:   * Full-time position, Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM (subject to change based on production demands).   * Overtime, weekends, or shift work may be required as needed.   Physical Requirements   * Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, reaching, climbing, twisting.  * Lifting and carrying materials up to 50-100 pounds, occasionally.   * Climbing stairs and ladders as needed   * Repetitive hand and arm movements   * Ability to work in environments with elevated temperatures   Work Environment   * Industrial manufacturing environment   * Exposure to dust, heat, steam, and noise   * Exposure to moving mechanical equipment   * Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and steel-toe boots   Key Responsibilities:   1. Equipment Operation: * Operate heavy machinery, including front-end loaders, bulldozers, excavators, haul trucks, and other specialized mining equipment.   * Excavate, transport, and stockpile raw materials from the mine to designated processing areas.   * Ensure precise loading and unloading of materials into transport vehicles and conveyors.   1. Material Handling & Production Support: * Monitor and manage the flow of raw materials to maintain adequate supply for production.   * Assist in maintaining proper material consistency and composition for brick manufacturing.   * Work closely with plant operators and logistics teams to optimize resource movement and storage.   1. Maintenance & Inspections: * Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment.   * Perform minor repairs, lubrication, and part replacements as needed.   * Report major mechanical issues to the maintenance department for servicing.   1. Safety & Compliance: * Strictly follow all workplace safety regulations, including PPE requirements.   * Participate in safety meetings, drills, and ongoing training.   * Identify and report potential hazards, equipment malfunctions, or unsafe conditions immediately.   * Adhere to environmental regulations and company policies on waste disposal and material handling.   1. Record-Keeping & Documentation: * Maintain accurate logs of equipment use, maintenance activities, and material movements.   * Document incidents, safety concerns, and deviations from standard operating procedures.   Qualifications & Skills:   * High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training or certification in heavy equipment operation is preferred.   * Proven experience operating heavy equipment in a mining, quarry, or industrial setting.   * Understanding of mine operations and material extraction techniques.   * Basic mechanical knowledge to conduct routine maintenance and troubleshooting.   * Ability to read and interpret mining plans, equipment manuals, and safety procedures.   * Strong teamwork and communication skills.   * Physical capability to work in demanding environments, including lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for long periods.   Benefits   * 401(k) retirement plan   * Medical, dental, and vision insurance   * Company-paid life insurance   Safety Requirements   * Must follow all company safety policies and procedures   * Must complete and pass all required safety training   * Must wear required PPE while performing job duties   * Must immediately report unsafe conditions, incidents, or injuries   * Participate in safety meetings   Essential Functions and Reasonable Accommodation   Cherokee Brick & Tile Company is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. Employees who require accommodation should notify Human Resources.   Disclaimer   This job description describes the general nature of the work performed and is not intended to be a complete list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Duties and responsibilities may change as business needs require.   Equal Opportunity Employer Statement   Cherokee Brick & Tile Company is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.