Description
Operate and maintain a front-end loader at surface mine sites to excavate, stockpile, and load loose materials into trucks or hoppers safely and efficiently.
- • Maintain and shape ramps, berms, and dump points.
- • Inspect and set up the loader before operation.
- • Operate joysticks, pedals, and controls to scoop, carry, and dump materials.
- • Load haul trucks, hoppers, and crushers to target weights with minimal spillage.
- • Follow hand signals, grade stakes, and radio directions to meet specifications.
- • Review digging plans and know machine capabilities, limits, and safe operating procedures.
- • Backfill, build stockpiles, and perform site cleanup with the loader.
- • Grease, refuel, adjust, and perform minor repairs; replace bucket teeth and cutting edges.
- • Move materials short distances around the pit or plant as directed.
- • Measure and record material levels, loads, and production data.
- • Adjust bucket angles and approaches for varying face heights and material conditions.
- • Drive the loader safely between work areas following mine traffic rules.
- • Coordinate with spotters and truck drivers to position for safe, efficient loading.
- • Respond to wet material, slides, or muddy conditions; assist with pit cleanup and maintenance.
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
