Drop Ball Crane Operator-Heavy Equipment

Job Description

$29.62 per hour

Position Summary

The Drop Ball Operator is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment used to break down oversized slag, scrap metal, refractory materials, and other steelmaking by-products through the use of a drop ball crane system. Working in an industrial steel mill environment, the operator supports Harsco Environmental's mission of providing safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible mill services to steel manufacturing customers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate drop ball cranes and related heavy equipment to reduce oversized materials to manageable sizes.
• Inspect equipment before, during, and after operation to ensure safe and efficient performance.
• Conduct daily pre-operational inspections and report any mechanical defects or safety concerns.
• Follow established operating procedures for handling slag, scrap, refractory, and other steel mill by-products.
• Coordinate with laborers, equipment operators, supervisors, and steel mill personnel to maintain safe work zones.
• Monitor work areas for hazards and immediately report unsafe conditions.
• Maintain production targets while adhering to all safety and environmental requirements.
• Assist with housekeeping activities to keep work areas clean and free of hazards.
• Complete operational reports, inspection forms, and production documentation as required.
• Participate in safety meetings, training programs, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support additional mill service operations as assigned.

Work Environment

• Heavy industrial steel mill setting with exposure to:
  • Heat, dust, noise, and vibration
  • Moving machinery and heavy equipment
  • Elevated work areas
  • Outdoor weather conditions year-round
• Safety-sensitive position requiring strict compliance with company and customer safety rules.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience operating heavy equipment in industrial, construction, mining, demolition, or steel mill environments preferred.
• Ability to safely operate cranes, excavators, loaders, or similar heavy equipment.
• Strong understanding of industrial safety practices.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must be able to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.

Preferred Skills

• Steel mill or slag processing experience.
• Mobile crane or heavy equipment operating experience.
• Industrial maintenance knowledge.
• OSHA and industrial safety awareness.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions and industrial environments.
• Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and equipment access points.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed boots, respirator, and fire-resistant clothing where required.

Additional Information

We offer competitive benefits, including health insurance, life insurance and disability plans, as well as a 401k with company matching.

Harsco Environmental is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Disclaimer:
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position.