Surface Support Operator - Water Management/Pump Maintenance

Job Description

Job Description

Summary of Position:

The Surface Support Operator will receive on-site task training with certification required for the safe and effective operation of mobile equipment, including but not limited to a Caterpillar 980 Loader, 950 Loader, 740GC 40-ton articulated haul truck, D6N Dozer, TL1255 Telehandler, 27D Skid Steer Loader, and other site-specific equipment as assigned.

This position is responsible for supporting surface mining operations through water management, pump operation and maintenance, road maintenance, material movement, drainage control, dust suppression, and general site surface support activities. Responsibilities include monitoring and maintaining surface water systems, installing and servicing pumps, pipelines and hoses, maintaining drainage ditches and sumps, supporting dewatering activities, and operating heavy equipment to maintain safe and efficient site conditions.

Surface Support Operators work as part of the Mine Operations team on a rotating day/night shift or straight day shift schedule. Work practices must comply with all federal, state, and local regulations, as well as Company safety, health, and environmental policies and procedures.

The Surface Support Operator reports directly to the Process Superintendent and/or Mill Operations Supervisor and is responsible for supporting safe and efficient surface operations, water management systems, and equipment maintenance activities.

• Demonstrate a personal commitment to safety by conducting preshift inspections of mobile equipment, pumps, and assigned work areas
• Operate mobile equipment safely and efficiently to support daily mining operations
• Perform routine inspection, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on water pumps, pipelines, hoses, valves, and associated water management infrastructure
• Monitor water levels in ponds, sumps, ditches, and other collection areas to ensure effective site dewatering and environmental compliance
• Install, relocate, and maintain pumps and piping systems to support changing operational requirements
• Maintain haul roads, drainage ditches, berms, and work areas using heavy equipment to promote safe access and proper water control
• Assist with dust suppression activities using water trucks and other water management equipment
• Identify equipment defects, unsafe conditions, or operational issues and communicate repair needs promptly
• Complete required inspections, equipment logs, maintenance records, and operational reports accurately
• Assist maintenance personnel with pump repairs and equipment servicing when required
• Support snow removal, storm response, spill response, and other site support activities as needed
• Work closely with Mine Operations, Maintenance, Environmental, and Health & Safety personnel to ensure safe and efficient operations
• Promote a work environment that embraces teamwork, communication, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Follow all company safety procedures, environmental regulations, and operating standards
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, inspections, risk assessments, and emergency response activities
• Remain aware of vehicle traffic, pedestrians, changing ground conditions, and weatherrelated hazards while operating equipment
• Mentor and assist in training other operators as assigned
• Participate in health and safety meetings and risk reviews as required

The above list of required qualifications is not intended as being comprehensive; other duties and priorities will be included and assigned as required.

Experience and Training:
• The Surface Support Operator must be technically proficient with the following attributes:
• High School Diploma or GED required
• Previous experience operating heavy mobile equipment in a mining, construction, industrial, or similar environment preferred
• Experience with pumps, water management systems, dewatering operations, or mechanical maintenance is preferred
• Familiarity with MSHA regulations and safe mining practices preferred
• Ability to successfully complete Southwest Critical Materials equipment certification and task training
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to inspect, troubleshoot, and perform minor repairs on pumps and support equipment
• Commitment to safe work practices and continuous improvement
Skills and Abilities: The Support Surface Operator must demonstrate the following skills:
• Knowledge of surface mining operations, mobile equipment operation, and water management systems
• Basic mechanical troubleshooting and maintenance skills
• Ability to safely operate multiple types of heavy equipment
• Strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship
• Ability to recognize changing site conditions and respond appropriately
• Effective communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a dynamic mining environment
• Willingness to learn new equipment and operational procedures
• Ability to train and mentor fellow operators to support competency development
• Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, and in varying weather conditions
• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, climbing, walking uneven terrain, and working outdoors yearround
Core Value Attributes: The incumbent must demonstrate the following Core Value attributes:
• Build Trust and Respect
• Extreme Ownership take responsibility for your role, outcomes, and the overall success of the team
• Solutions Oriented seeking innovative, safe solutions with initiative
• Effective Communication clear communication to foster teamwork across all departments
Physical Demands:

Check off all physical demands of the position. The following definitions are to be used in completing the frequency of the Physical demands:

Constant (C)67 -100% of task time (40-60 mins. Per hour or 1 lift per 15 seconds

Frequent (F)34-66% of task time (20-40 mins. Per hour or 1 lift every 2 mins)

Occasional (O)6-33% of task time (3-20 mins. Per hour or 1 lift every 30 mins)

Rare (R)0-5% of task time (3 mins. Per hour)

Physical Demands- Frequency (C, F, O, or R)

Lifting _50___ pounds☒R

Sitting☒F

Walking☒C

Standing☒C

Bending neck☒F

Twisting neck☒F

Bending waist (forward or sideways☒F

Balancing☒F

Squatting (crouch or sit on one’s heels)☒F

Climbing☒O

Kneeling☒O

Crawling☒O Reach above shoulder height☒O

Reach below shoulder height☒O

Driving☒F

Stooping☒O

Pushing☒O

Pulling☒O

Talking☒C

Hearing☒C

Repetitive motions☒C

Other: Mine Rescuer_______________☒R

Other: ________________☐

Work Schedule, Personal Protective/Other Equipment:

The incumbent is expected to work a rotating 12-hour day/night shift schedule. Personal Protective Equipment required and to be worn for the field work portion of this position includes, but is not limited to, hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots. All equipment must be MSHA approved as applicable.