Plant Operator/Maintainer When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics, you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment, supporting environmental stewardship and generating value for all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesota's mining history: Mesabi Metallics' cutting-edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Once completed, it will mark the first new mine and pellet plant in Minnesota in nearly 50 years. More importantly, you'll be immersed in a positive, supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values which are sustainability, integrity, inclusivity, innovation, teamwork, determination and performance, and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day. At Mesabi Metallics, you are part of a legacy of excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.
Position Overview:
The Plant Operator/Maintainer is responsible for the safe operation, inspection, troubleshooting, and minor maintenance of equipment throughout the Crusher, Concentrator, and Pellet Plant. This hybrid role is designed to support operational reliability by combining plant operations responsibilities with hands-on maintenance activities. Employees in this position are expected to operate and monitor plant systems while proactively identifying and correcting minor equipment issues before they impact production. The Plant Operator/Maintainer works closely with Operations, Maintenance, and Reliability teams to maximize plant availability, maintain product quality, and ensure safe and efficient production. This position is ideal for individuals with a strong mechanical aptitude who enjoy both operating equipment and performing light mechanical work in a continuous 24/7 mining environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Reporting to the Operations Shift Leader Plant Operator/Maintainer will be responsible for the following:
Safety & Environmental:
Follow all company, MSHA and environmental policies and procedures.
Conduct workplace examinations and identify unsafe conditions.
Exercise Stop Work Authority when necessary.
Maintain high housekeeping standards throughout the plant.
Support dust control, spill prevention, and environmental compliance activities.
Participate in safety meetings, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Plant Operations:- Operate and monitor equipment within the Crusher, Concentrator, and Pellet Plant.
- Conduct routine inspections of process equipment and document findings.
- Monitor control systems and respond to alarms or abnormal operating conditions.
- Assist with plant startups, shutdowns, and process adjustments.
- Record production data, shift activities, and equipment observations.
- Maintain communication with control room personnel, supervisors, and maintenance teams.
- Support production objectives while ensuring quality specifications are achieved.
- Minor Maintenance Responsibilities
- Perform minor mechanical maintenance activities, including:
- Belt tracking and adjustments.
- Screen panel replacement.
- Hose, fitting, and gasket replacement.
- Greasing and lubrication activities.
- Changing filters and strainers.
- Tightening and replacing guards, handrails, and hardware.
- Replacing rollers, idlers, and minor conveyor components.
- Basic pump and valve maintenance.
- Assisting with lockout/tagout activities.
- Cleaning and servicing equipment during scheduled downtime.
- Utilize hand and power tools safely and effectively.
- Identify equipment deficiencies and generate maintenance notifications/work requests.
- Assist maintenance personnel during outages, shutdowns, and major repairs.
- Participate in preventative and predictive maintenance programs.
- Crusher ResponsibilitiesMonitor crushers, feeders, screens, and conveyor systems.
- Inspect for plugging, wear, leaks, and abnormal equipment conditions.
- Perform minor repairs and adjustments as required.
- Support ore handling and blending activities.
- Concentrator ResponsibilitiesMonitor grinding circuits, pumps, separators, thickeners, and filtration systems.
- Collect process samples and support process optimization efforts.
- Conduct equipment inspections and complete minor maintenance tasks.
- Pellet Plant ResponsibilitiesMonitor balling discs/drums, furnaces, conveyors, and pellet handling systems.
- Perform inspections and minor maintenance on process equipment.
- Support pellet quality objectives and material handling activities.
- Assist during planned shutdowns and equipment change-outs.
Qualifications:
High School Diploma or GED required.
Previous experience in mining, mineral processing, manufacturing, or heavy industrial operations preferred.
Mechanical aptitude with experience using hand and power tools.
Experience performing minor mechanical maintenance activities preferred.
Ability to read and understand equipment manuals, procedures, and work instructions.
Physical Requirements:
Frequent heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling of components up to 50 lbs independently; team lifts for components over 50 lbs.
Ability to work in confined spaces, at heights, in pits, and under raised equipment (with proper blocking and safety protocols).Extended standing, kneeling, crouching, and working overhead throughout the shift.
Ability to work safely in outdoor conditions year-round including extreme cold (?30F) and heat (100F+).
Salary: $30.00 per hour
Overtime:
Paid at 1.5x the regular hourly rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek (SundaySaturday) Winners Circle Incentive: A biweekly incentive calculated as a percentage of biweekly wages (base pay + overtime), paid in the same paycheck and tied to the production of safe, quality tonnes. Guaranteed at the 70% target level through September 30, 2026 (Construction Phase); calculated against achievable, hourly-measured production targets during the Ramp Up Phase (through March 31, 2027); and tied to biweekly production targets thereafter (Optimization Phase).Triple Crown Incentive: A discretionary annual profit-sharing opportunity of up to $22,750, with a portion tied to safety and ESG performance. Paid only during outstanding company performance years; full plan details are shared before the first performance period. $110,000 - $145,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits:
Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage with an HSA option.
Retirement Plan: 401(k) with 4% company match.
Lincoln STD, LTD, & Life Insurance: Coverage provided by Mesabi Metallics.
Paid Time Off (PTO): 0-3 Years: 96 hours per year.
Plus 9 paid holidays and 2 floating holidays.
Mesabi Metallics Company LLC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to our success.
