Lead Sawmill Operator -1st shift

Job Description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Lead Operator – Sawmill is responsible for leading the daily operation of the sawmill production process while ensuring the safe, efficient, and high-quality processing of logs into lumber. This position provides direction and support to sawmill operators, coordinates workflow, monitors equipment performance, and assists with troubleshooting operational issues to maximize production, optimize lumber recovery, and minimize downtime. The Lead Operator serves as the primary point of contact for the shift, promotes compliance with safety, quality, and production standards, and works closely with supervisors, maintenance, and other departments to ensure efficient mill operations. This role is expected to lead by example, reinforce company policies, develop team members, and foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate, set up, and monitor the head rig, band saw, gang saw, edger, trimmer, and associated sawmill equipment during production runs to meet target recovery, dimensions, and throughput.

• Perform and verify machine setups for each log run and species; confirm settings against the run sheet before production begins and adjust as needed throughout the run.

• Monitor saw guides, blade tension, feed speed, and carriage settings throughout the shift; make in-run adjustments to maintain recovery and dimensional accuracy.

• Coordinate product flow from the log deck through the head rig, edger, trimmer, and onto the green chain; maintain a smooth, continuous production pace.

• Visually and dimensionally inspect sawn lumber throughout the run; verify that output meets target thickness, width, and length specifications per the run sheet; pull or flag off-specification product immediately.

• Maintain accurate tally records, run logs, and shift production documentation; conduct end-of-run and end-of-shift equipment checks and communicate findings to the oncoming shift Lead or Supervisor.

• Serve as the first point of contact for crew members when the Sawmill Supervisor is unavailable; communicate issues up the chain without delay; assist in orienting and training new operators in coordination with the Supervisor.

• Model and enforce all PPE requirements without exception, including safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed boots, and high-visibility vest; ensure LOTO procedures are properly followed before any operator-level maintenance on sawmill equipment.

• Communicate all equipment issues, wear indicators, and observations to the Maintenance department promptly; coordinate with maintenance during planned and unplanned downtime to minimize production impact.

• Maintain line communication upstream with the log yard and loader operators and downstream with the green chain, edger, and trimmer crews; enforce housekeeping and debris-management standards throughout the shift.

• Identify and immediately report all safety hazards, near-misses, and incidents to the Sawmill Supervisor; never perform electrical repairs or maintenance tasks outside the authorized scope of the Lead Operator role.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Sawmill Supervisor.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Minimum 2–3 years of experience as a machine operator in a sawmill or lumber manufacturing environment required.

• Direct hands-on experience operating a head rig, band saw, edger, or trimmer in a production sawmill strongly preferred.

• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to recognize saw drift, equipment wear, and performance deviations; working knowledge of lumber recovery principles and sawmill dimensional specifications.

• Clear and effective verbal communication skills; comfortable holding crew members accountable to production pace and safety standards in a professional and respectful manner.

• Demonstrated ability to read run sheets, interpret lumber dimensions and grade specifications, and maintain accurate tally records.

• Ability to work independently and make sound in-the-moment production decisions within established guidelines; reliable and punctual with the ability to set the example for the crew.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience in an informal lead or senior operator capacity on a production line.

• Experience with log deck organization and log selection to maximize recovery.

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills a plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position works in an active sawmill production environment with regular exposure to moving saw blades, carriage equipment, high noise levels, sawdust, vibration, and varying outdoor temperature conditions. The incumbent must be able to stand and walk for the full shift, lift and carry materials up to 60 lbs frequently, and bend, reach, and kneel during equipment checks and setups. All required PPE — including safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed boots, and high-visibility vest — must be worn at all times in the production area. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

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.