Kiln Forklift Operator

About This Role

Operate large forklifts and continuous drying kilns at a lumber manufacturing facility to process green and dried lumber. This role requires a commitment to safety, teamwork, and maintaining quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate large forklift to move packs of green lumber from the sawmill to the Planer mill
• Correctly stack lumber on kiln cars for drying
• Breakdown cars of dried lumber
• Place packs of dried lumber onto the track system to feed the lumber to the planer mill
• Operate and maintain Continuous Drying Kilns (CDK kilns), including troubleshooting and instrument calibration
• Clean kilns and maintain housekeeping standards in the area
• Manage lumber rotation (green and dry) and follow QC guidelines
• Perform preventive maintenance (PM) on equipment and forklifts

Requirements

• Ability to work safely and follow all company policies and procedures
• Experience operating a large forklift in a production environment
• Demonstrated leadership and team skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Good computer skills (Strong Excel skills)
• Self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision
• Good decision making skills
• Ability to conduct visual equipment inspections and perform basic preventive maintenance
• Ability to assist maintenance in troubleshooting/improving equipment
• Ability to do basic math, read dials, and insert data into spreadsheets
• Flexibility to work a 12-hour, rotating/variable shift, including weekends, overtime, and holidays
• Ability to work in extreme temperatures, dusty, and noisy conditions while wearing safety equipment
• Ability to lift 2-20 pounds regularly, up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Ability to climb steps and ladders, work from heights, and work in tight spaces

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience operating a large forklift in a production environment

Nice to Have

• Previous experience drying lumber

Skills

* Required skills