Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Quarry Operative

🎯 Role Definition

A Quarry Operative is a skilled professional responsible for the safe and efficient day-to-day running of a quarry site. This involves operating a range of heavy mobile and fixed plant machinery to extract, crush, screen, and stockpile aggregates like stone, sand, and gravel. The role is fundamental to the construction supply chain, ensuring a steady flow of quality materials for projects ranging from road building to new home construction. The ideal candidate is a proactive team player who prioritizes health and safety above all else, possesses a strong mechanical aptitude, and thrives in an outdoor, physically active environment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

General Labourer
Construction Site Worker
Agricultural Worker / Farm Hand
Forklift Operator

Advancement To:

Quarry Supervisor / Foreman
Mobile Plant Lead
Quarry Manager
Health & Safety Advisor

Lateral Moves:

Asphalt Plant Operative
Concrete Batching Plant Operative
Heavy Equipment Operator (Civil Construction)

Core Responsibilities

Plant & Machinery Operation

Safely and proficiently operate heavy mobile plant, including articulated dump trucks, loading shovels, excavators, and bulldozers, for extraction and material handling.
Manage the operation of fixed plant machinery, such as primary and secondary crushers, screens, and conveyor systems, to process raw materials to specification.
Conduct daily pre-start checks and walk-around inspections on all assigned machinery, reporting any defects or issues immediately through the proper channels.
Monitor plant performance during operation, making necessary adjustments to feed rates and settings to maintain production efficiency and product quality.
Operate the site weighbridge, ensuring all vehicles are weighed correctly (in and out) and that all ticketing and compliance paperwork is completed accurately.
Load customer and company vehicles with the correct product and quantity in a safe and timely manner, ensuring adherence to legal weight limits.
Efficiently manage stockpiles, ensuring proper segregation of different aggregate products and assisting with regular stock measurement surveys.
Maximize equipment utilization and productivity while minimizing fuel consumption and unnecessary wear and tear.

Safety & Compliance

Adhere strictly to all company health, safety, and environmental policies, as well as MSHA/QNJAC regulations and site-specific rules.
Actively participate in daily safety briefings, toolbox talks, and training sessions to maintain a high level of safety awareness.
Maintain a high standard of housekeeping in all work areas, including mobile plant cabs, fixed plant structures, and general site grounds.
Proactively identify and report any potential hazards, unsafe conditions, near misses, or environmental incidents to the site supervisor.
Wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times and ensure it is maintained in good condition.
Ensure the effective use of dust suppression systems (e.g., water sprays) to minimize airborne particles and environmental impact.
Conduct visual inspections of quarry faces, haul roads, and tipping areas to identify and report any stability or safety concerns.
Champion a culture of safety by leading by example and encouraging safe work practices among colleagues.

Site & Maintenance Duties

Assist the maintenance and fitting teams with routine servicing, repairs, and inspections of both mobile and fixed plant equipment.
Perform basic preventative maintenance tasks, such as greasing, lubricating, and cleaning equipment as per schedules.
Carry out general site maintenance duties as required, which may include shoveling spillages, clearing walkways, and maintaining site signage.
Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and drivers to ensure a coordinated and efficient workflow across the site.
Complete all necessary operational paperwork and digital records accurately and promptly, including pre-start checks, production logs, and defect reports.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proven experience and certification/licensing for operating heavy mobile plant such as Loading Shovels, Articulated Dump Trucks, or 360 Excavators.
Experience operating fixed processing plant, including crushers, screeners, and conveyors.
Knowledge of basic mechanical principles and ability to perform routine preventative maintenance.
Familiarity with weighbridge systems and procedures for vehicle loading.
Understanding of aggregate products, quality specifications, and sampling.
A valid driver's license is essential.

Soft Skills

An unwavering commitment to health and safety protocols and a "safety-first" mindset.
Strong communication skills for coordinating with team members, supervisors, and hauliers.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team while also being self-motivated to complete tasks independently.
Excellent problem-solving skills to identify and address operational issues as they arise.
A proactive and flexible attitude, with a willingness to learn new skills and assist wherever needed.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

Preferred Education:

Vocational qualification or accredited certification in Heavy Plant Operation or Mining Operations.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Heavy Equipment Operation
Mining Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5 years of experience in a similar role.

Preferred: Direct experience working within a hard rock quarry, sand & gravel pit, or heavy industrial environment. Experience with specific brands of equipment (e.g., CAT, Volvo, Komatsu) is highly advantageous.