Tailings Basin - Operator/Maintainer

About Mesabi Metallics:

When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics, you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment, supporting environmental stewardship, and generating value for all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesota’s mining history: Mesabi Metallics’ cutting-edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Once completed, it will mark the first new mine and pellet plant in Minnesota in nearly 50 years.

More importantly, you'll be immersed in a positive, supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values of teamwork, agility, and ownership, and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day.

At Mesabi Metallics, you are part of a legacy of excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.

Position Overview:

The Tailings Basin Operator/Maintainer is responsible for the safe operation, inspection, troubleshooting, and minor maintenance of equipment throughout the Tailings Basin. This hybrid role is designed to support operational reliability by combining Tailings Basin operations responsibilities with hands-on maintenance activities.

Employees in this position are expected to operate and monitor tailings systems while proactively identifying and correcting minor equipment issues before they impact production. The Tailings Basin Operator/Maintainer works closely with Operations, Maintenance, and Reliability teams to maximize tailings pipeline availability and ensure safe and efficient production.

This position is ideal for individuals with a strong mechanical aptitude who enjoy both operating equipment and performing light mechanical work in a continuous 24/7 mining environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Reporting to the Tailings Basin Supervisor, the Tailings Basin Operator/Maintainer will be responsible for the following:

Safety & Environmental

• Follow all company, MSHA, and environmental policies and procedures.

• Conduct workplace examinations and identify unsafe conditions.

• Exercise Stop Work Authority when necessary.

• Maintain high housekeeping standards throughout the site.

• Support dust control, spill prevention, and environmental compliance activities.

• Participate in safety meetings, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Tailings Operations

• Operate and monitor equipment within the Tailings Basin.

• Conduct routine inspections of Tailings Basin equipment and document findings.

• Monitor systems and respond to alarms or abnormal operating conditions.

• Assist with plant startups, shutdowns, and process adjustments.

• Record production data, shift activities, and equipment observations.

• Maintain communication with control room personnel, supervisors, and maintenance teams.

• Support production objectives while ensuring quality specifications are achieved.

• Monitor tailings pipeline and pumping operations.

Minor Mechanical Maintenance Activities

• Replace hoses, fittings, and gaskets.

• Perform greasing and lubrication activities.

• Tighten and replace guards, handrails, and hardware.

• Perform basic pump and valve maintenance.

• Assist with lockout/tagout activities.

• Perform basic carpentry jobs.

• Clean and service equipment during scheduled downtime.

• Utilize hand and power tools safely and effectively.

• Identify equipment deficiencies and generate maintenance notifications/work requests.

• Assist during outages, shutdowns, pipeline change-outs, and major repairs.

• Participate in preventive and predictive maintenance programs.

• Inspect for plugging, wear, leaks, and abnormal equipment conditions.

• Perform minor repairs and adjustments as required.

• Conduct equipment inspections and complete minor maintenance tasks.

Tailings Pipeline & Heavy Equipment Responsibilities

• Monitor tailings pipeline and pumping operations.

• Perform inspections and minor maintenance on the tailings pipeline.

• Operate heavy equipment to support Tailings Basin activities, including pipe handlers, bulldozers, excavators, graders, and other equipment as needed.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required.

• Previous experience in mining, mineral processing, manufacturing, or heavy industrial operations preferred.

• Mechanical aptitude with experience using hand and power tools.

• Experience performing minor mechanical maintenance activities preferred.

• Ability to read and understand equipment manuals, procedures, and work instructions.

Physical Requirements:

• Frequent heavy lifting, pushing, and pulling of components up to 50 lbs independently; team lifts are required for components over 50 lbs.

• Ability to work in confined spaces, at heights, in pits, and under raised equipment, following proper blocking and safety protocols.

• Extended standing, kneeling, crouching, and working overhead throughout the shift.

• Ability to work safely in outdoor conditions year-round, including extreme cold (-30°F) and heat (100°F+).

Salary:

• Base Pay: $30.00 per hour.

• Overtime: Paid at 1.5x the regular hourly rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek (Sunday–Saturday).

• Winners Circle Incentive: A biweekly incentive calculated as a percentage of biweekly wages (base pay + overtime), paid in the same paycheck and tied to the production of safe, quality tonnes. Guaranteed at the 70% target level through October 30, 2026 (Construction Phase); calculated against achievable, hourly-measured production targets during the Ramp Up Phase (through March 31, 2027); and tied to biweekly production targets thereafter (Optimization Phase).

• Triple Crown Incentive: A discretionary annual profit-sharing opportunity of up to $22,750, with a portion tied to safety and ESG performance. Paid only during outstanding company performance years; full plan details are shared before the first performance period.

• Annual Compensation Reference: $110,000–$145,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage with an HSA option.

• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with 4% company match.

• Lincoln STD, LTD, & Life Insurance: Coverage provided by Mesabi Metallics.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): 0–3 years of service: 96 hours per year.

• Paid Holidays: Nine paid holidays and two floating holidays.

Mesabi Metallics Company LLC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to our success.