Block Plant Operator

Block Plant Operator

Watkins, a NEBCO Company, provides high-quality concrete and masonry building materials to residential and commercial markets across Nebraska and the surrounding region. With decades of experience serving the construction industry, Watkins is fundamental to building Nebraska, with operations in Omaha, Lincoln, Grand Island, and Kearney.

Watkins manufactures and distributes standard and architectural concrete block, segmental retaining wall systems, concrete pavers, and a wide range of related building materials, including brick, stone, exterior finishes, fabricated rebar, sealers, tools, and other construction essentials. Through automated manufacturing facilities, multiple distribution locations, and indoor and outdoor showrooms, Watkins supports contractors, commercial builders, and do-it-yourself customers alike.

Built on a foundation of quality products and dependable service, Watkins is committed to meeting the needs of today's builders and the future of construction.

Position Summary: Watkins - Omaha is looking for a Block Plant Operator to perform shift operations of daily concrete block production with focus on block machine operations. Must abide by Company Safety Program and Policies, while performing duties safely. Reliable attendance required.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Set up, adjust and operate machines to mix concrete and produce product according to specifications.
• Set up, adjust and operate machines to split, cube and package product according to specifications.
• Manually cube, split and package product as needed. Perform inventory as needed.
• Inspect product and remove product from production that does not meet quality control standards.
• Perform adjustments and preventive maintenance on equipment as necessary.
• Rebuild mold boxes and other wearing parts.
• Assure safety devices are in proper working order, used and in place.
• Perform job according to safety/environmental rules and regulations.
• Move block via forklift.
• Maintain the block area in a clean and orderly manner.
• Perform daily clean-up tasks to work area and equipment as needed.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) equivalent; and
• Experience in a block plant; mechanical, hydraulic and/or electrical aptitude, experience operating construction machinery or equipment--forklift, pallet loaders, lift truck and a front-end loader; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• Valid NE driver's license and be insurable under the company insurance program.
• Forklift certification or must be capable to completing requirements of the program and passing the test.

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to read and understand written, verbal or diagrammatic instructions, including instructions, manuals, rules, regulations, SDS sheets and the company safety manual.
• Must understand basic numbers and math to count inventory or complete orders.
• Must be able to work overtime and weekends according to business needs.
• Must be able to use appropriate tools to repair equipment.
• Good physical skills to do the overall requirements of the job.
• Must have a good sense of detail and work to maintain a clean and safe block environment.
• Must be able to distinguish between safe and unsafe conditions in the plant and safely perform job on and around machinery that could cause bodily harm if proper procedures are not followed.
• Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 70 pounds to waist height and frequent lifting up to 75 pounds.

Benefits Include

• Retirement Plans
• PAID Holidays
• Insurance Benefits
• Wellness Program - with the opportunity to earn five additional days off
• PAID Time Off
• On the Job Training

Condition of Employment: Candidate is required to meet the above qualifications, task frequency and PPE requirements. Approval of pre-employment reference & background checks, and post offer drug/alcohol testing with fit for employment screening (if required) are conditions of employment.