Operations Assistant

About the role

Build your career at US Aggregates!

The Operations Assistant is an entry-level management role designed to identify, develop, and train future Plant Managers for U.S. Aggregates. This position reports directly to the Area Manager and works closely with Plant Managers and Assistant Plant Managers across multiple aggregate operations within an assigned geographic territory.

Through hands-on exposure, the role builds experience in plant operations, production, maintenance, quality, safety, environmental compliance, aggregate processing, drilling, blasting, and quarry operations, while developing the knowledge, skills, and leadership capabilities needed to advance into plant management.

Essential Functions

• Promotes and supports Safety & Environmental compliance with all State, Federal, Company, and MSHA rules and regulations, participating in weekly safety meetings, workplace examinations, and incident reviews, and model safe job planning and procedures
• Assisting Plant Managers in planning, scheduling, and directing daily operations, including crushing, screening, washing, equipment operations, and material handling processes, to maintain production and aggregate processing efficiency and meet established sales forecasts
• Assists in scheduling and monitoring preventive maintenance programs for fixed and mobile equipment, reviewing daily equipment inspection reports, and ensuring proper replacement and repair parts are on hand to minimize downtime and maximize production
• Supports quality control activities in coordination with the Quality Manager, including sampling and testing of aggregate products to ensure compliance with customer and regulatory specifications, and assisting with identifying and resolving product quality issues
• Develops working knowledge of drilling and blasting operations, including shot planning, coordination with blasting contractors, safety and regulatory requirements, and the cost impact on downstream production
• Provides coaching, mentoring, and direction to plant employees, partnering with Plant Managers and the HR Business Partners on training, staffing, and personnel matters, including steps in the progressive discipline policy
• Assist the Plant manager with tracking and reporting key performance indicators such as tons per operating hour, uptime, delays, fuel and electrical consumption, and drilling and blasting cost, as well as maintaining production and inventory data and supporting budget targets
• Uses plant production data to identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce cost, and optimize overall plant performance
• Fills in for Plant Managers, Assistant Plant Managers, and other plant positions as needed to support coverage across assigned territory
• Participates in monthly production and planning meetings and communicates openly with Area Managers and senior leadership on plant goals, progress, and development
• Additional duties and responsibilities as assigned, including but not limited to continuously growing in alignment with the Company's core values, competencies, and skills

Education Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor's Degree preferred, or an equivalent combination of training and work experience

Experience Qualifications

• 3+ years of supervisory or lead experience within the aggregate industry required
• Exposure to preventive maintenance, aggregate processing, quality control, and drilling and blasting preferred

Skills and Abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical and operational information clearly to employees, peers, and management in both formal and informal settings
• Demonstrated ability to build effective working relationships and collaborate across multiple plant sites with diverse teams, plant managers, and functional partners
• Demonstrated ability to set goals, stay self-motivated, and maintain a consistent commitment to professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement within aggregate operations
• Working knowledge of MSHA and environmental rules and regulations applicable to aggregate operations, with awareness of site hazards and a commitment to safety and compliance
• Working knowledge of mechanical components, plant equipment, and procedures applicable to aggregate production and maintenance environments
• Strong skill in organization, planning, time management, and problem-solving, with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook and Excel, and other software tools relevant to plant operations, reporting, and performance tracking
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, adapting quickly to shifting priorities and evolving operational needs
• Skilled in welding, torching, and maintenance processes preferred

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid driver's license and a clean driving record required
• Current MSHA Part 46 training preferred

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry at least 50 pounds
• Ability to continuously stand or walk on level or uneven ground for extended periods
• Ability to ascend and descend ladders, stairways, and incline catwalks and work safely at elevated heights as required
• Ability to bend, crouch, and/or kneel at the waist or knees
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, including pickup trucks, within plant sites, on public roads, and between multiple locations daily
• Work is performed in both office and outdoor environments, including quarries and plants, around moving machinery, at various heights, and in varying weather conditions
• Must wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with all site safety standards at all times
• Position requires regular travel among 4 to 6 sites within the assigned territory, with flexibility to work long hours and weekends as business needs require