Dispatcher/Batch Operator

WELCOME TO VCNA!

Prairie Materials is looking to hire a Batch Plant Operator

ABOUT PRAIRIE MATERIALS

Prairie Materials owns and operates a network of concrete plants and aggregate facilities in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. From our very first yards in Bridgeview, Illinois, we've expanded steadily to become the region's foremost provider of ready-mixed, decorative, and high-performance concrete, as well as aggregate construction materials. Though the business of construction has changed dramatically, our promise to customers remains constant - Prairie delivers quality materials with exceptional service at the best possible price.

Today, Prairie employs 1,800 professionals in nearly 100 locations in the three-state area. We value our employees who help us continue to bring quality products to our customers. In addition to excellent benefits and perks, we offer a supportive work environment!

Every day, we have the chance to accomplish something new and you're invited to be part of it.

Summary/Job Scope:

The Batch Plant Operator executes daily plan utilizing COMMANDdispatch achieving the highest level of customer satisfaction and maximizing productivity. Communicates directly with drivers and customers using landline, two-way radio, and internet-based platforms. Direct and coordinate production operations for a ready-mix plant. Act independently and with general direction to carry out the plan established by the operations supervisor while adhering to company policies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Accurately and timely tickets/dispatches trucks at proper rate and plant, ensure trucks are statusing properly, that GPS is properly functioning, verifies instructions for drivers and provides general directions/jobsite references, communicates to the drivers 'extra products' when applicable.
• Reviews upcoming loads within district to ensure accuracy and timeliness, minimizes lateness within district, modifies existing orders. Assists in managing start of day and end of day, minimizing 'slack' time. Assist with exceptions and re-route suggestions within district. Modifies existing orders.
• Coordinates all aspects of the delivery of raw materials to the plant, ensures necessary raw materials are at the plant to produce required concrete mixes, may perform monthly raw material inventory counts.
• Batches concrete and ensures trucks are loaded with the proper volume and has the loads delivered per specifications. Communicates and coordinates with QC regarding slumps and air and makes necessary adjustments to moisture contents and air dosages.
• Problem solves when the plant breaks down and assists Maintenance to assure minimal break down time and will perform maintenance duties to repair plant if capable. Schedules and assures completion of routine and preventive maintenance on plants. Performs routine maintenance if capable including greasing, oiling, etc.
• Maintains daily, monthly and yearly reports. Reports all issues to the Operations and Plant Maintenance Manager. Assures proper housekeeping at the plant.
• Drives district's KPIs and compliance within district, follow best practices to meet the goals of the district.
• Employ the COMMANDtrack dispatch software to ensure that service level, productivity and material costs are balanced in an optimal fashion across district. Consider system tuning parameters, diagnose configuration issues, and provide feedback on tuning the system. Ensure dispatch and batch systems are used to their highest potential and employees are fully engaged.

Note:

This job description may not cover all duties and requirements and may include additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Skills: Ability to read, interpret technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from a group of managers. Knowledge of concrete terminology a must. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, proportions, averages and standard deviations to everyday business situations.

Experience: A minimum of two (2) years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of concrete properties and performance (required).
• Knowledge of concrete placement methods (required).
• Knowledge of concrete production facilities and delivery equipment (required).
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with multiple variables.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with changing situations.
• To perform this job successfully, individual should have knowledge of Internet software, including email (Outlook); Spreadsheet (Excel) software; Expertise in COMMANDdispatch software package (required); Knowledge COMMANDtrack software package (preferred).

Salary Range: $ 21.93 to $ 30.61 per hour

This posting is for a vacant position.

*Please fill out an application on our direct website at https://www.prairie.com/career/

OUR PEOPLE

We care about people - all people. At VCNA, we take safety, health, and wellness seriously. We're dedicated to giving our employees a safe workplace, our neighbors a safe environment and our customers a high-quality and safe product. Safety first -and always! Our VC Way reflects who we are, inspiring us to unite our culture and be our best: Our Way of Being: ethical and respectful, Our Way of Working: together with excellence and Our Way of Thriving: with the courage to transform.

INCLUSION AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT

We have a results-oriented culture that values being open, honest, and authentic. It's part of our DNA. We are continually expanding our diverse and inclusive team by providing opportunities for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, or economic status - a workplace where you can express your individuality and be your best self.