Operator/Driver

Kiln Operator

Kiln Operations

• Load and unload kiln charges according to schedules and lumber specifications (species, thickness, grade).

• Monitor kiln temperature, humidity, and airflow throughout drying cycles, adjusting settings as needed to reach target moisture content.

• Test lumber moisture content using moisture meters, and record and log results accurately.

• Follow established drying schedules for different species and lumber thicknesses.

• Inspect kilns regularly for proper operation, mechanical issues, steam or heat leaks, and safety hazards.

• Perform routine kiln maintenance tasks and promptly report equipment malfunctions to the Maintenance team.

• Maintain accurate kiln logs and records, including charge numbers, drying times, temperatures, and moisture readings.

• Coordinate with production and planer supervisors on kiln charge scheduling to support overall production flow.

Forklift & Material Handling

• Safely operate a forklift to load and unload lumber packages into and out of kilns, yard storage, and drying areas.

• Stack and stage lumber packages before and after drying according to grade, species, and destination.

• Perform pre-shift and post-shift forklift inspections; promptly report defects or maintenance needs.

• Follow all safety protocols when operating the forklift, including load capacity limits, speed limits, and pedestrian right-of-way.

• Assist with general kiln yard housekeeping and material handling as needed.

General

• Follow all safety protocols, including required PPE, lockout/tagout when applicable, and heat/steam safety precautions around kiln structures.

• Immediately report accidents, near-misses, and equipment malfunctions to a supervisor.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Kiln/Production Supervisor.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

• Valid forklift operator certification, or ability to obtain PDL forklift certification upon hire (training provided).

• Prior experience operating a forklift and/or kiln equipment preferred.

• Basic understanding of lumber grading, species, and moisture content principles, or a strong willingness to learn.

• Ability to read and accurately record data, including kiln logs and moisture readings.

• Ability to work safely in a hot, humid, industrial environment.

• Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed based on kiln and production schedules.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior kiln operation experience in a sawmill or lumber drying facility.

• Experience with kiln control systems (manual or computerized).

• Experience in a sawmill or lumber yard environment.

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills a plus.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

This position is performed in and around kiln facilities and outdoor yard areas, with regular exposure to high heat, humidity, steam, noise, and moving equipment. The incumbent must be able to safely operate a forklift for extended periods, climb ladders and stairs to access kiln platforms, and lift up to 50 lbs. Required personal protective equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed boots, and heat-resistant gloves as needed) must be worn at all times in kiln and yard areas. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

Performance Expectations

• Kiln charges are dried to target moisture content consistently, minimizing over-drying, under-drying, and related quality defects.

• Kiln logs and moisture readings are recorded accurately and on schedule.

• Forklift operations supporting kiln loading and unloading are performed safely and efficiently, minimizing delays.

• Kiln and forklift equipment issues are identified and reported promptly.

• Maintains a consistent safety-first mindset around heat, steam, and moving equipment hazards.

• Coordinates proactively with production and planer supervisors to keep kiln scheduling aligned with production needs.

• Wears required PPE correctly and consistently without needing reminders.

Maintains regular, dependable attendance given the continuous nature of kiln drying cycles.

Plain Dealing Lumber is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.