The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) owns and operates the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). The Hoist Operator Trainee works in the Operations Division under Facility Maintenance in the Hoists & Shafts Department and maintains and operates surface hoists.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

The following reflects SDSTA’s definition of essential functions for this position and does not restrict other tasks that may be assigned. SDSTA retains the right to re-evaluate the duties of the position when considering a reasonable accommodation or at other appropriate times. The essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

Hoist Operation

• Controls hoisting machinery to raise and lower cages for moving equipment and personnel.
• Moves levers and pedals to operate hoist in response to telephone and radio communications, notification bells, and alarm signals.
• Observes dial indicator and marks on cable or drum to ascertain that desired position has been reached.
• Applies hand or foot brake and moves lever to lock hoist.
• Operates and understands digital hoisting controls and trouble shoots codes when they occur.

Inspections and Maintenance

• Conducts daily pre-operational inspections.
• Inspects, lubricates, and adjusts brakes, clutches and other hoisting equipment equipment.
• Performs regular preventive maintenance inspections on hoist and reports maintenance needs.
• Performs all oiling and greasing needs for all hoists.
• Performs clean-up involved at all hoists.
• Performs trouble shooting on high and low pressure hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
• Operates large bridge cranes to assist in hoist maintenance.
• Reads blue prints, diagrams and drawings to determine work procedures.
• Assists facility technicians as needed.

Other Essential Functions

• Maintains consistent and reliable attendance.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education

• High school diploma or GED equivalent and mechanical aptitude are required.

Certifications and Licenses

• N/A.

Experience

• Hoist operator experience is desired.

Competencies, Knowledge and Skills

• Attention to Detail—Ability to maintain constant awareness of surroundings and ensure tasks are completed carefully and accurately.
• Composure—Ability to function effectively under pressure and work independently.
• Customer Service—Ability to discover and address customers’ needs, interact courteously and work cooperatively with others, and keep others informed.
• Organization—Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time, and keep order and coordinate numerous activities.
• Reliable— Dependable in performing work-related duties and prioritizing assigned projects to ensure deadlines are met. Keeps absences to a minimum and is punctual.
• Safety—Ability to learn, understand and comply with SDSTA's safety programs.

Working Conditions

The working conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. When applicable and appropriate, consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations.

• This position may require working in both surface and underground environments at depths up to 5000 feet, which may include exposure to extreme conditions, confined spaces, and varying temperatures.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet while in the office, or moderately loud when on the surface or underground, and may require hearing protection.
• The company is committed to providing a safe working environment and adheres to all relevant health and safety regulations.
• Employees are expected to comply with SDSTA’s ESH Manual safety program.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety Standards protocols are mandatory.
• Act in accordance with SDSTA’s core values: Safety Focused, Care for Others, Professionalism and Being a Team Player.

Mental and Physical Demands

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to follow safety protocols and procedures.
• High level of alertness to maintain compliance with safety protocols, especially in high-risk environments involving heavy equipment, electricity, or gas lines.
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods.
• Capacity to lift and carry items up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to operate forklifts and other warehouse machinery.
• Good hand-eye coordination.
• Repetitive movement of hands, arms and legs, sweeping, vacuuming, mopping, pushing, wiping.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods

Job Information

Supervisory Duties: No

Direct Reports: N/A.

Work Arrangements: On-Site

Hours: 7-on 7-off; 12.5hrs shifts

Travel Required: 0%

Mission/Vision/Core Values

Mission: We advance world-class science and inspire learning across generations.

Vision: The world’s preferred location for underground science and education.

Core Values:

• Safety Focused: We do not compromise safety or endanger the environment.
• Care for Others: We embrace and honor the fundamental value and dignity of all individuals. We listen knowing everyone has something to offer and to learn.
• Professional: What we do is important to our community and the world. We sweat the details to achieve big things. Our behavior and ethics exemplify our best.
• Team Players: We provide unmatched service. We are respectful and deliver for our customers and partners. We build trust not barriers.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

The South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) is an equal opportunity employer committed to the development of a diverse workforce. We foster a work community where every individual feels welcomed, valued, respected and heard and discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, ancestry, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or political affiliation is prohibited.