Job Title: Plant Operations Lead

Department: Shop / Plant Operations

Full-Time

direct hire

Location: San Diego County

Compensation Range: $30-$40 per hour, DOE

Position Summary

The Plant Operations Lead is a hands-on role responsible for performing daily plant, shop, and equipment maintenance tasks to support safe and efficient operations. This position focuses on mechanical repairs, equipment upkeep, and day-to-day operational duties. While the role may involve guiding other employees during tasks, full supervisory responsibility is not required initially. Future leadership responsibilities may be added as experience and proficiency grow.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform mechanical maintenance and repairs on conveyors, shop equipment, and plant systems.
• Safely operate acetylene and oxygen torches.
• Apply stick and wire-feed welding techniques for repairs and fabrication.
• Conduct routine maintenance on trucks, loaders, forklifts, and related equipment.
• Assist with material handling, equipment setup, and plant operational needs.
• Troubleshoot equipment and plant processes.
• Record daily work activities, labor hours, and maintenance tasks.
• Communicate effectively with operations and office personnel.

Operational Support:

• Assist with workflow coordination and monitor production activities.
• Provide guidance to crew members during tasks when needed (without formal supervisory authority).

Safety & Compliance:

• Follow all safety, environmental, and housekeeping standards.
• Participate in safety meetings and report hazards or incidents.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA and company EHS policies.

Equipment & Maintenance:

• Perform preventive maintenance and report repair needs promptly.
• Maintain parts, tools, and materials inventory.

other info:

• All required PPE provided.
• Standard hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m., with overtime as needed.
• Valid CA driver's license required for operating company vehicles (or willingness to obtain).

Qualifications - Required

• Minimum 5+ years of hands-on maintenance experience in industrial, aggregate, or plant operations.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with welding, fabrication, and heavy equipment experience.
• Understanding of safety protocols and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Reliable attendance and ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred:

• Experience providing direction or training to coworkers.
• OSHA 30 General Industry certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Forklift, loader, or equipment operation certifications.
• Basic computer literacy for reporting and documentation.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Work in shop and outdoor plant environments with exposure to heat, dust, and weather.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., climb ladders/stairs, and stand or walk for long periods.
• Willingness to work extended hours during peak production seasons.

Additional Information

• Competitive pay and benefits package, including health and dental insurance (after 60 days), 401(k) with potential profit-sharing (eligibility after one year), PTO, and 8 paid holidays.
• Potential performance bonuses.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Safe, supportive work environment with a strong commitment to safety.
• Opportunity to grow into a leadership role over time.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance. For unincorporated Los Angeles county, to the extent our customers require a background check for certain positions, the Company faces a significant risk to its business operations and business reputation unless a review of criminal history is conducted for those specific job positions.