Ground Sand Operator at U.S. Silica in Pacific, MO

The Grand Sand Operator assists in the operation of grinding mills and material handling equipment to support safe, efficient, and high-quality production. Learns milling processes, equipment operation, preventative maintenance, and quality control procedures while working under close supervision. Performs inspections, operates processing equipment, completes production documentation, and supports environmental and safety compliance.

Responsibilities

• Operate grinding mills, material handling, and processing equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform pre-shift inspections and document workplace examinations.
• Monitor equipment performance and report maintenance or operational issues.
• Conduct product sampling and testing in accordance with quality standards.
• Perform minor maintenance on milling and processing equipment using proper Lockout/Tagout procedures.
• Complete daily production reports, including equipment settings, silo levels, product grades, and downtime documentation.
• Use computer software to monitor equipment performance and record production data.
• Load live-feed railcars and tanker trucks.
• Operate a forklift as needed.
• Maintain clean, organized work areas and support housekeeping standards.
• Follow all company safety, health, and environmental policies and report unsafe conditions, incidents, or environmental events immediately.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED) required.
• 1+ years of industrial process equipment experience preferred.
• Mine Safety and Health (MSHA) knowledge preferred.
• Forklift experience preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft Office, WonderWare (or similar process software), and JD Edwards (JDE) preferred.
• Warehouse or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced industrial environment while maintaining a high level of safety and quality.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, climb stairs and ladders, work from elevated platforms, use hand tools, and wear required PPE, including a hard hat, steel-toe boots, safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves, for extended periods.

About the Company

U.S. Silica is a leading producer of industrial minerals essential to modern life. With $1B+ in annual revenue, 26 production facilities, and industry-leading last-mile logistics for the oil & gas sector, we supply high-quality silica, diatomaceous earth, clay, and other materials to industries ranging from energy and construction to food & beverage.

As a portfolio company of Apollo Global Management, we are positioned for strategic growth in both our Oil & Gas and Industrial segments. For more than 100 years, our products and innovations have helped make the world cleaner, safer, and more energy-efficient.

U.S. Silica is an equal opportunity employer for all without regard to race, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. U.S. Silica is a smoke- and drug-free workplace.