About the role
About Mariana Minerals Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We’re reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making. Through its Copper One platform, Mariana Minerals owns and operates the Lisbon Valley Mining Company , a producing open-pit copper mine located in southeastern Utah. Lisbon Valley Mining Company utilizes modern surface mining methods—including drilling, blasting, loading, and hauling—to deliver ore to its crushing and heap leach processing facilities. Our success depends on safe, reliable equipment performance, supported by a skilled and safety-focused maintenance team.
The Role The Heavy Equipment Operator plays a critical operational role in supporting mine production through the safe and efficient operation of mobile heavy equipment, including loaders, dozers, excavators, graders, water trucks, and drill rigs. This position is responsible for conducting equipment inspections, maintaining safe working conditions, contributing to production targets, supporting operational and maintenance teams, and ensuring compliance with MSHA standards and company procedures. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong situational awareness, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work effectively in a dynamic mining environment. What You’ll Do Operational
Responsibilities Safely operate heavy equipment including loaders, bulldozers, excavators, graders, water trucks, and blasthole drill rigs. Work across all mine areas as needed, including active pits, dumps, haul roads, and process areas. Operate equipment in a manner that maximizes productivity while minimizing downtime, fuel use, and equipment wear. Perform and document accurate preshift and postshift inspections on all assigned equipment. Conduct ground support tasks such as shoveling, spotting, barricading, and general labor when required. Assist maintenance personnel by communicating equipment issues, supporting troubleshooting, and performing basic servicing. Maintain clean, safe, and organized operating areas. Safety & Compliance Always follow MSHA, OSHA, and company safety procedures, including lockout/tagout, hazard reporting, and traffic rules. Demonstrate strong hazard recognition skills and actively participate in daily safety meetings. Ensure equipment operation and ground activities comply with environmental and regulatory expectations. Report unsafe conditions, equipment damage, and near misses immediately. Collaboration & Communication Communicate effectively with supervisors, maintenance, and fellow operators. Provide clear shift handover notes to ensure continuity between crews. Participate in task training for new operators and support continuous improvement initiatives. Desired