Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice/Construction Laborer

Company Overview

Aggregate Resource Industries, Inc. (ARI) is a leading mining and construction services contractor headquartered in Springfield, Oregon. We specialize in providing comprehensive solutions for the mining and construction industries, including rock drilling, blasting, and crushing operations throughout the Pacific Northwest. Our commitment to safety, innovation, and quality has established ARI as a trusted partner for mining and construction projects — and earned us recognition as one of Oregon’s Top Workplaces for our dedication to employees and culture.

We are looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice/Construction Laborer to support the production of high-quality rock materials for construction and infrastructure projects! This entry-level role plays a key part in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of portable rock crushing equipment in the field. In this position, you will gain hands-on experience and cross-train on heavy equipment such as wheel loaders, excavators, and dozers—building valuable skills that support long-term career growth. This position travels with our portable crushing plant, typically operating in the Creswell, Salem, Silverton, or Roseburg, Oregon areas. Ideal candidates are mechanically inclined, dependable, team-oriented, and eager to learn and grow with the company.

If you bring a strong work ethic and want to be part of a team that values integrity, grit, teamwork, and the drive to elevate—we encourage you to apply!

- Full-time; frequent travel required, typically Monday through Friday with lodging provided near job sites.

Compensation

- Wage Range: $20.00–$24.00 per hour depending on experience and qualifications.

- Benefits: Generous benefits package including per diem, comprehensive health insurance, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, holiday pay and more.

Job Requirements/ Qualifications

- Industry Experience: Previous experience working in construction or equivalent industry required.

- Mechanically inclined: Demonstrates interest and aptitude in learning mechanical systems.

- Minimum age: Must be at least 18 years old.

- Education: High School Degree or equivalent

- Driver License: Valid driver’s license with a driving record that includes no more than 3 moving violations and/or chargeable accidents in the last 3 years and no DUIIs.

- ATF clearance: Must pass a background check through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in compliance with federal explosive handling regulations.

- Drug Test and Physical Screening: Pre-employment drug test and physical required. We conduct random drug tests and post-accident testing. ARI maintains a zero-tolerance drug policy, including marijuana.

- Travel commitment: Regular travel away from home is required. This position travels and follows the company’s portable rock crushing plant, which is typically stationed in the Creswell, Salem, Silverton, or Roseburg, Oregon area.

- Physical requirements: Physical stamina with the ability to lift 75 pounds and remain on feet for long hours.

Additional Skills Required

- Values-Driven: Embodies ARI’s values of integrity, teamwork, grit, and continuous improvement

- Willingness to learn: Eager to pursue ongoing training and development.

- Safety awareness: Committed to safe work practices and adhering to procedures.

- Team-Oriented: Collaborates effectively with coworkers in fast-paced outdoor job sites.

- Adaptable: Able to handle changing jobsite conditions, weather, and schedules.

- Strong Work Ethic: Dependable, punctual, and focused on high-quality work.

- Communication: Strong verbal communication and active listening skills.

Job Responsibilities

- Crushing Operations Support: Assists in the safe and efficient operation of portable rock crushing equipment.

- Safety Inspections & Documentation: Completes required safety documentation, including pre-operation inspections and workplace examinations, in compliance with company policies.

- Routine Maintenance: Performs daily maintenance tasks on equipment to support safe, continuous operations.

- Troubleshooting: Monitors equipment for malfunctions and supports basic troubleshooting and repairs.

- Heavy Equipment Operation: Cross-trains and operates heavy equipment including loaders, excavators, and dozers.

- Plant Mobilization: Supports plant relocation and setup at new sites.

- Safety Meetings & Communication: Actively participates in safety and scheduling meetings to support a shared understanding of jobsite hazards, daily goals, and safe work practices.

- Housekeeping: Maintains worksite cleanliness and performs general housekeeping duties.

- Additional Duties: Performs other duties as needed to support crushing and quarry operations.

Safety

- Safety commitment: Maintains a safety-first mindset and consistently follows all safety policies, procedures, and regulations to help ensure a safe work environment for self and others.

BENEFITS

- Paid Time Off

- Paid Holidays

- Company Paid Lodging When working on jobs requiring more than 1.5 hours one-way travel time, we arrange and pay 100 percent of lodging accomodations.

- Paid Travel Time

- Health Insurance We offer health insurance at a cost of $54/month for the employee portion of the basic plan. We also offer buy up plan options that have lower deductibles.

- Vision Insurance We pay 100% of employee premiums

- Dental Insurance We offer Dental insurance through Cigna and cover a portion of the employee premium for dental benefits.

- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Employees are given the option to contribute a portion of their earnings, pre-tax, into a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). They can use the funds contributed to their account to pay for qualified medical or dependent care expenses that are not covered by insurance.

- Voluntary Insurance We offer a voluntary insurance program for Critical Illness, Accident Protection, Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance.

- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) With this benefit program, employees and members of their household can receive free, confidential counseling servicesto help work through both personal and professional issues.

- 401k We match 100% of the first 3% of your salary that you contribute, and 50% of the amount that exceeds 3%, up to 5% of your annual earnings. In addition, ARI may make a profit-sharing contribution to your account at the end of the plan year.

ARI is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, genetic information, veteran status, or on the basis of disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or other bases prohibited by applicable law.