Utility Operator

Located in Hope, AR

Salary: $18-20.00

Position: Utility Operator

Location: Hope, AR

Shift: Day and night shift available 12hrs 2-2-3 schedule

Pay: $18-20.00 DOE

Benefits: Full Benefits package offered 

 

#Skilled1125

 

The Utility Operator is a multi-skilled, hands-on support role responsible for plant inspections, yard and equipment checks, housekeeping, and assisting Maintenance and Operations in troubleshooting and resolving issues. This position is also cross trained in all departments and serves as backup coverage when employees are absent. This role is critical to plant safety, reliability, and production continuity.

 

 Core Responsibilities

1. Yard & Equipment Inspections • Perform yard walk-downs each shift and complete inspection sheets • Inspect mobile and stationary equipment for: o Leaks (oil, grease, hydraulic, air, water) o Abnormal noise, vibration, heat, or odors o Loose guards, belts, chains, and fasteners o Dust buildup and fire hazards • Report all abnormal conditions immediately to Supervisor and Maintenance • Tag unsafe equipment and document findings
2. Shift Walk-Downs & Documentation • Complete shift walk-down sheets accurately and on time • Verify: o Safety devices and emergency stops o Guards and covers in place o Clean work areas and access paths • Enter issues into the downtime or work order system • Follow up on previous shift issues
3. Maintenance Support & Troubleshooting • Assist Maintenance with: o Lockout/Tagout o Equipment disassembly and reassembly o Belt, chain, roller, and bearing replacement o Lubrication and cleaning • Support electrical and mechanical troubleshooting • Gather tools, parts, and materials • Perform basic mechanical adjustments under supervision
4. Cross-Training & Coverage Support • Be cross trained in all departments, including: o Pellet Mills o Hammermills o Dryer operations o Bagging & Palletizing o Yard & Material Handling • Provide on-shift coverage when employees call out or during labor shortages • Step into trained roles to maintain production flow • Assist supervisors in keeping lines running
5. Plant Operations Support • Support operators during changeovers, startups, and shutdowns • Clear material jams and blockages safely • Monitor conveyors, screens, dryers, pellet mills, bag lines, and dust systems • Respond to alarms and abnormal conditions
6. Housekeeping & Fire Prevention • Maintain clean and safe work areas • Control dust buildup and material spills • Empty trash, scrap, and wood waste • Keep fire lanes, exits, and access points clear
7. Safety & Compliance • Follow all safety rules, PPE, and Lockout/Tagout procedures • Report near misses, hazards, and incidents immediately • Participate in safety meetings and training • Stop unsafe work and notify Supervisor

Required Skills & Competencies

• Mechanical aptitude • Ability to identify abnormal equipment conditions • Basic hand and power tool use • Willingness to work in hot, dusty, noisy environments • Ability to lift 50+ lbs. and climb stairs/ladders • Strong communication and teamwork • Flexibility to work in any department as needed Key Performance Expectations • 100% completion of walk-downs • Fast and accurate issue reporting • Safe and productive coverage of open positions • Strong teamwork across departments • Zero tolerance for unsafe act

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