Automated Saw Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Overnight Lumber Operator

The Overnight Lumber Operator plays a key role in safely and efficiently processing lumber during night-shift operations. This position focuses on selecting and loading the correct materials, setting up and operating saws, monitoring cuts and measurements, and organizing completed products for production crews. The role requires strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work independently and as part of a two-person team in a fast-paced, automated environment.

Responsibilities

• Select and load the correct dimensional lumber into the saw and related machinery according to production requirements and computerized cut lists.
• Set up and operate the saw safely and accurately, ensuring all settings, measurements, and labels meet specified standards.
• Monitor cuts, measurements, and labels throughout the shift to maintain quality and consistency in finished materials.
• Keep different materials, wall bundles, sizes, grades, and treatments properly separated to prevent mix-ups and ensure accurate inventory.
• Organize completed material for production crews so that downstream operations can run smoothly and on schedule.
• Track completed work, document production output, and promptly communicate any shortages, issues, or equipment problems to the appropriate contacts.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area around the saw and associated equipment, following all safety procedures.
• Meet production requirements and complete scheduled workloads without continuous or direct supervision.
• Safely move lumber and completed material using indoor and outdoor forklifts, following safe operating practices at all times.
• Use computers and computerized cut lists comfortably to access production information, enter data, and verify work orders.
• Read and interpret measurements accurately to ensure precise cutting and material handling.
• Apply good mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills to address minor equipment issues and improve workflow.
• Work safely around automated equipment, following lockout/tagout and other safety protocols as required.
• Lift, handle, and maneuver dimensional lumber throughout the shift, maintaining safe body mechanics and awareness of surroundings.
• Obtain and maintain forklift certification and operate forklifts in both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Work effectively as part of a two-person team, coordinating tasks and communicating clearly to meet production goals.
• Be dependable and consistently available for night-shift work, maintaining reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Be available for overtime when production demands require additional hours.

Essential Skills

• Ability to safely set up and operate saws and related lumber-processing equipment.
• Comfort using computers and computerized cut lists to follow production instructions and record work.
• Strong ability to read measurements accurately and apply them to cutting and material handling tasks.
• Good mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills to support equipment operation and troubleshooting.
• Capability to work safely around automated equipment and follow established safety procedures.
• Physical ability to lift, handle, and move dimensional lumber throughout an entire shift.
• Willingness and ability to obtain forklift certification and operate forklifts in indoor and outdoor settings.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a two-person team, with clear communication and coordination.
• Dependability and consistent availability for night-shift work, including Sunday through Thursday schedules.
• Willingness to work overtime when production requires additional coverage.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Ability to identify dimensional lumber sizes such as 2×4, 2×6, 2×8, 2×10, and 2×12.
• Knowledge of standard SPF lumber, treated lumber, FRT/fire-treated material, and specialty products.
• Skill in reading lumber stamps, labels, and material descriptions to verify correct materials.
• Understanding of common lumber lengths and measurements used in construction and manufacturing.
• Attention to detail in keeping different sizes, grades, and treatments separated and properly organized.
• Experience operating saws and forklifts in a production or warehouse environment is beneficial.

Why Work Here?

Join a stable night-shift operation where your attention to detail and mechanical skills directly support efficient production. You will work in a structured environment with clear schedules, consistent weekly hours, and the opportunity to develop valuable equipment-handling and lumber-processing experience. The role offers a team-oriented atmosphere, the chance to build technical skills with automated equipment and forklifts, and the ability to take pride in producing high-quality materials that support downstream construction and manufacturing work.

Work Environment

This is a night-shift role operating Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 p.m. to 4:30 a.m., with a 30-minute unpaid lunch and eight paid hours per shift, totaling 40 hours per week. Work takes place in a lumber production environment with automated saw equipment, computers for accessing cut lists, and both indoor and outdoor forklift operations. The setting involves regular lifting and handling of dimensional lumber, working around machinery, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace. Employees should expect a hands-on, industrial environment where safety procedures, proper equipment use, and clear organization of materials are essential throughout the shift.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Lonsdale, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $23.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Lonsdale, MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 17, 2026.