Wet Plant Operator
U.S. Silica is seeking a dependable and safety-focused Wet Plant Operator to join our team at our Lamesa, Texas plant. In this role, you will operate, monitor, and maintain wet plant processing equipment to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable production of high-quality silica products. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, committed to safety, and thrives in a fast-paced industrial environment.
Man camp accommodations are available for qualified out-of-area employees.
Location: Lamesa, TX
Schedule: Rotating 12-hour shifts (7:00 AM – 7:00 PM / 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM), 7 days on / 7 days off
Responsibilities
- Safely operate and monitor wet plant processing equipment in accordance with established operating procedures.
- Conduct pre-shift inspections of work areas and equipment to identify and address potential safety hazards.
- Start up, monitor, adjust, and shut down plant equipment, including crushers, screens, conveyor systems, pumps, hydrosizers, filter belts, dryers, elevators, and other processing equipment.
- Monitor plant operations and make process adjustments to optimize production, product quality, and equipment performance.
- Perform routine operational troubleshooting and minor equipment adjustments as needed.
- Report equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or process issues promptly to supervision.
- Maintain accurate operating logs and complete required production documentation.
- Maintain a clean and organized work area while supporting housekeeping standards throughout the plant.
- Follow all company safety policies, environmental regulations, and operating procedures.
- Participate in safety meetings, training, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or GED.
- Ability to work a rotating 12-hour schedule (7:00 AM–7:00 PM / 7:00 PM–7:00 AM) on a 7-on/7-off rotation.
- Strong commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.
- Basic mechanical aptitude and the ability to learn industrial processing equipment.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and in an industrial environment.
- Ability to climb stairs and ladders, work from elevated platforms, and perform physically demanding tasks.
- Ability to use basic hand tools, including shovels, hammers, and wrenches.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Preferred
- Previous experience operating equipment in a mining, aggregate, industrial manufacturing, or processing facility.
- Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) knowledge or experience.
- Forklift operating experience.
- Experience with industrial process controls or basic computer systems.
- Warehouse or material handling experience.
About Us
U.S. Silica is a leading producer of industrial minerals essential to modern life. With $1B+ in annual revenue, 26 production facilities, and industry-leading last-mile logistics for the oil & gas sector, we supply high-quality silica, diatomaceous earth, clay, and other materials to industries ranging from energy and construction to food & beverage.
As a portfolio company of Apollo Global Management, we are positioned for strategic growth in both our Oil & Gas and Industrial segments. For more than 100 years, our products and innovations have helped make the world cleaner, safer, and more energy-efficient.
U.S. Silica is an equal opportunity employer for all without regard to race, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. U.S. Silica is a smoke- and drug-free workplace.