Co-Op Student – Aggregate Operations

The Olen Corporation and Area Aggregates, one of the largest construction aggregates producers in the Midwest, has been a leader in the industry for over 50 years. With multiple locations serving Central, Northeast, and Northwest Ohio, Olen is dedicated to providing top-quality aggregate products, including natural sand, gravel, and limestone, to a diverse range of customers. As an ODOT 1069 prequalified aggregates supplier, Olen sets the standard for quality and service in the industry. Producing over 8 million tons of construction materials each year, Olen is a top thirty-five national producer of quality construction aggregates. Since 1986, Olen has partnered with Kokosing to be one of their top suppliers of construction materials. Committed to excellence, Olen is focused on delivering exceptional customer service while being responsible stewards of the environment and respectful neighbors in the communities we serve.

Job Description:

About Olen Corporation

Olen Corporation, a division of Kokosing, is one of Ohio's leading aggregate producers, supplying high-quality construction materials that support critical infrastructure and development projects throughout the state. Operating multiple limestone quarry and aggregate facilities, Olen produces more than 8 million tons of aggregate annually, serving a diverse range of customers and projects.

Our co-op program offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in quarry and mining operations while working alongside industry professionals dedicated to safety, innovation, and operational excellence.

Position Summary

The Aggregate Operations Co-Op provides students with comprehensive exposure to all aspects of the aggregate production business. This hands-on learning experience is designed to develop future industry leaders by immersing participants in quarry operations, production processes, safety management, quality control, equipment maintenance, and construction material applications.

Students will work directly with operations managers, supervisors, engineers, maintenance personnel, and production teams to gain practical experience in mining and aggregate production while supporting projects that drive

continuous improvement and operational performance.

Key Learning Opportunities & Responsibilities

Production & Quarry Operations

• Gain exposure to daily quarry and plant operations.
• Learn various surface mining and extraction methods.
• Observe and assist with drilling and blasting activities.
• Participate in production planning and material flow management.
• Assist in monitoring production efficiency and operational performance.

Safety & Environmental Stewardship

• Participate in safety meetings, audits, and field inspections.
• Develop an understanding of MSHA regulations and safety best practices.
• Assist with hazard identification and corrective action processes.
• Learn environmental compliance and sustainable mining practices.

Quality Control & Materials Testing

• Assist with aggregate sampling, testing, and quality assurance procedures.
• Learn industry specifications and standards for construction materials.
• Support quality control initiatives to ensure customer and project requirements are met.
• Gain experience with laboratory testing equipment and reporting.

Engineering & Continuous Improvement

• Support process improvement initiatives that enhance production, safety, and efficiency.
• Participate in data collection and operational analysis projects.
• Learn plant automation systems and production monitoring technology.
• Assist with project planning and capital improvement activities.

Maintenance & Equipment Reliability

• Gain hands-on experience with preventive and corrective maintenance activities.
• Assist in troubleshooting mechanical breakdowns and operational challenges.
• Develop an understanding of equipment reliability and maintenance planning.
• Learn the operation and function of crushing, screening, conveying, and mobile equipment systems.

Equipment Operation & Field Experience

• Observe and gain exposure to heavy equipment operation.
• Learn the role and capabilities of various mining and construction equipment.
• Assist operational teams in supporting daily production activities.

Business & Customer Operations

• Gain exposure to aggregate sales and customer service operations.
• Learn how construction materials are integrated into major infrastructure and construction projects throughout Ohio.
• Develop an understanding of production forecasting, inventory management, and market demand.

Qualifications

Required

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in:
  • Mining Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Construction Management
  • Or a related field
• Strong interest in mining, aggregate production, construction materials, or heavy industrial operations.
• Ability to work safely in a quarry and industrial environment.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions.

Preferred

• Prior internship, co-op, or construction experience.
• Familiarity with engineering principles, equipment systems, or industrial operations.
• Interest in pursuing a career in the mining, aggregates, construction materials, or heavy civil construction industries.

What You Will Gain

Through this co-op experience, students will:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of aggregate production and mining operations.
• Gain hands-on field experience in one of Ohio's largest aggregate operations.
• Work alongside experienced managers, engineers, mechanics, and operators.
• Learn how quality construction materials support major infrastructure and building projects.
• Build technical, operational, and leadership skills applicable to careers in engineering, construction, mining, and operations management.
• Participate in meaningful projects that contribute directly to operational success and continuous improvement.

Why Olen Corporation?

At Olen Corporation, we believe our people are our greatest asset. This co-op program is designed to provide students with real-world experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to the diverse opportunities available within the aggregate and construction materials industry. Students will leave the program with a strong foundation in mining operations and a broader understanding of how aggregates support the infrastructure that keeps Ohio moving.

Olen offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, vision, company paid life, and disability insurance. We also provide competitive incentives to eligible team members, like paid time off and 401K plus match to reward our team members for staying committed to our customers and keeping safety a priority.

Olen is an equal employment opportunity employer. The company does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.