BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — West Virginia-based Allegheny Metallurgical forecasts the creation of new high-paying jobs after powering up their state-of-the-art longwall at the Longview Mine in Barbour County.
Chief Operating Officer Eric Lipinski said the company hold a job fair at the Bridgeport Conference Center Friday until 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“We’ve revamped the coal mine from a roof support and equipment standpoint and quite frankly it is a state-of-the-art facility that our owners have invested heavily in,” Lipinski said.
Allegheny Metallurgical officials believe they’ll produce 3.5 million metric tons annually to supply steelmakers. At full-operation the mine is expected to employ up to 500 workers.
“Longwall operators, continuous miner operators, maintenance personnel, we’re looking for some underground surveyors, electricians, and engineering talent,” Lipinski said.
Operations at the mine are based on a 28-day schedule with 14 days on and have 14 days off for workers, with seven of the 14 days off consecutive. The company also offers traditional schedules with a steady day shift, running Monday through Friday and every other Saturday.
“We started our longwall up in September of this year and it’s run exceptionally well,” Lipinski said. It’s actually run better than I ever thought it would.”
Company officials will be meeting with people at the Bridgeport Conference Center during the event to answer any questions.
“If you’re looking for a place you want to call home for the next 25 or 30 years come down and meet our team, you’ll enjoy it,” Lipinski said.
Story by Mike Nolting, WAJR