Production Utility Operator
Paulden, Arizona•Full-time
About the Job
Role Summary
Supports production activities through the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment. Responsible for mining and handling raw materials, loading trucks, managing stockpiles, and supporting operational requirements to ensure a consistent supply of materials for plant operations. Works closely with Production, Maintenance, and Operations teams to maintain productivity, safety, and operational reliability.
Work Location: Paulden, Arizona & Williams, Arizona
Assignment Duration
This position supports seasonal pozzolan production activities near Williams, Arizona, with operations currently planned through November 2026. During periods when pozzolan operations are inactive, the incumbent will support cement plant operations in Paulden, Arizona. Pozzolan production activities are expected to resume in March 2027, subject to operational requirements and business needs.
Purpose
Support raw material production and plant operations by operating heavy equipment and performing material handling activities necessary to mine, load, stockpile, and manage raw material inventory. Ensure operational efficiency while maintaining compliance with safety, environmental, and company standards.
Key Accountabilities
• Operate front-end loaders and other heavy equipment to support mining, material handling, stockpile management, and production activities.
• Load customer and internal haul trucks with raw materials in a safe and efficient manner.
• Manage raw material stockpiles and support inventory control activities.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance concerns.
• Support continuous material availability for plant operations.
• Follow all safety procedures, environmental requirements, and operating standards.
• Maintain housekeeping and safe working conditions within assigned areas.
• Complete operational inspections, logs, and required documentation.
• Coordinate with Production and Maintenance personnel to support daily operational priorities.
• Assist with general production and material handling activities as required.
• Support operational efficiency through safe and reliable equipment operation.
Knowledge
• Knowledge of heavy equipment operation and material handling practices.
• Understanding of mining, quarry, aggregate, cement, or industrial operations preferred.
• Familiarity with multiple types of heavy equipment and safe operating practices.
• Knowledge of workplace safety requirements and hazard identification.
• Understanding of material stockpile management and production support activities.
Problem Solving
• Identifies operational issues that may impact material availability or production.
• Recognizes equipment performance concerns and communicates maintenance needs.
• Adjusts to changing production priorities while maintaining safety and efficiency.
• Responds effectively to operational challenges in a heavy industrial environment.
Interactions and Influence
• Frequent interaction with Production Supervisors, Plant Operators, and Maintenance personnel.
• Coordinates daily activities to support production requirements.
• Promotes safe work practices through consistent adherence to company procedures.
• Supports team objectives through effective communication and collaboration.
Impact
Direct: Supports raw material production targets and material availability for plant operations.
Indirect: Contributes to operational efficiency, equipment reliability, workplace safety, and overall production performance.
Experience and Education
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience operating front-end loaders and other heavy equipment required.
• Experience in mining, aggregate, quarry, cement, construction materials, or industrial environments preferred.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Full proficiency in English. Spanish desirable.
Success Profile
• Safety focused and dependable.
• Demonstrates sound judgment and equipment operating skills.
• Reliable, accountable, and team oriented.
• Strong work ethic and commitment to operational excellence.
• Adaptable in a fast-paced industrial environment.
• Role model of UNA Culture values.
About UNACEM North America
UNACEM North America is part of the international Grupo UNACEM family. Our parent company, Grupo UNACEM, has a rich legacy that stretches back over 100 years, marked by technological innovation and a commitment to building a sustainable world. Headquartered in Lima, Peru, Grupo UNACEM was formed by merging leading cement companies and is now a reference point in the global construction materials industry. We have steadily grown our presence throughout Latin America, and today, our North American division is an integrated business leading the way for sustainable cement manufacturing in the US. In the United States, UNACEM North America operates two major cement plants—Drake Cement in Paulden, Arizona, and Tehachapi Cement in California. These facilities are recognized for their state-of-the-art technology and have established our company as a leader in the Southwest region. The Drake Cement facility was the first of its kind to be built in Arizona in 2008, and full production began in 2011. The Tehachapi cement plant has a rich history dating back to 1906. Our company culture is anchored in the UNA Values—nine guiding principles that are woven through every aspect of our business. At UNACEM, we: Collaborate as one team, fostering an environment built on trust and respect. Take responsibility for our actions, driven by a deep conviction to fulfill our purpose. Own our professional development, cultivating growth in a challenging environment. Live by the highest standards, as outlined in our Code of Ethics and Conduct. Prioritize health and safety, considering life to be our most important asset. Commit to creating economic, environmental, and social value for current and future generations. Strive to exceed expectations through continuous improvement and efficiency. Lead change by encouraging innovation and adaptability. Put the customer at the center of all our actions, working to provide sustainable solutions. As we look ahead, UNACEM North America is dedicated to ambitious sustainability goals. Grupo UNACEM’s global roadmap calls for all operations to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. We are making large-scale investments to modernize our plants, improve energy efficiency, adopt alternative fuels, and implement carbon capture technology. These efforts align with our broader purpose—to grow together and build a sustainable world for everyone. Joining UNACEM North America means being part of a forward-thinking company—one where each team member plays a pivotal role in building a more sustainable future. If you share our values and passion for innovation, we look forward to learning more about your background and how you could contribute to our mission.