Plant Operator

Plant Operator

U.S. Silica is seeking a safety-focused and dependable Plant Operator to join our team in Lamesa, TX. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining wet plant processing equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable production. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, committed to safety, and thrives in a fast-paced industrial environment.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate and monitor wet plant processing equipment in accordance with established operating procedures.
• Perform pre-operational inspections of equipment and work areas before beginning operations.
• Start up and monitor crushers, screens, conveyor systems, pumps, hydrosizers, filter belts, dryers, elevators, and other plant equipment.
• Operate crushers, dryers, and associated processing equipment to maintain efficient production.
• Monitor plant operations and make operating adjustments to optimize performance and product quality.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and perform minor operational repairs as needed.
• Safely shut down equipment following established procedures.
• Maintain accurate operational records and communicate equipment or process issues to supervisors.
• Keep work areas clean and organized while following all housekeeping standards.
• Comply with all company safety policies, environmental regulations, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn industrial processing equipment.
• Ability to work a rotating 7-on / 7-off schedule, including both day and night shifts.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced manufacturing or mining environment.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders, work from elevated platforms, and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Ability to safely use hand tools, including shovels, hammers, and wrenches.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, and climbing throughout the shift.

Preferred

• Previous experience in mining, aggregate, sand, industrial manufacturing, or plant operations.
• Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) experience or knowledge.
• Forklift operating experience.
• Experience using computer-based operating systems or production software.
• Warehouse or material handling experience.

About Us

U.S. Silica is a leading producer of industrial minerals essential to modern life. With $1B+ in annual revenue, 26 production facilities, and industry-leading last-mile logistics for the oil & gas sector, we supply high-quality silica, diatomaceous earth, clay, and other materials to industries ranging from energy and construction to food & beverage.

As a portfolio company of Apollo Global Management, we are positioned for strategic growth in both our Oil & Gas and Industrial segments. For more than 100 years, our products and innovations have helped make the world cleaner, safer, and more energy-efficient.

U.S. Silica is an equal opportunity employer for all without regard to race, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. U.S. Silica is a smoke- and drug-free workplace.