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Debarker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Equipment may include the debarker, multi-trim saw, gang box saw, double arbor gang saw, edger, or other related sawmill machinery. This position requires mechanical aptitude, strong safety awareness ...

Equipment may include the debarker, multi-trim saw, gang box saw, double arbor gang saw, edger, or other related sawmill machinery. This position requires mechanical aptitude, strong safety awareness ...

Communicate with sawyers, debarker operators, and yard personnel to maintain steady production * Inspect logs for visible hazards (metal, excessive debris, irregular size) * Maintain proper log ...

Chip Mill Operator

Epes, AL

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Troubleshooting and operation of all woodyard equipment i.e. debarker, chipper, bark hog, all chains, and conveyance systems * Operate computers and HMI screens to monitor and correct operational ...

Chip Mill Operator

Garysburg, NC

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Troubleshooting and operation of all woodyard equipment i.e. debarker, chipper, bark hog, all chains, and conveyance systems * Operate computers and HMI screens to monitor and correct operational ...

General Labor $17.85-$19

Emmett, ID

$15.25 - $19/hr

Edger Resaw Trimmer Sorter/Stacker Stacker outfeed Small/Large Debarker Bin Tender • Maintains a clean and organized work area. • Performs other duties as assigned. Company Values • Safety • ...

Operates, lubricates, cleans, and inspects strander, debarker and other associated in feed and out feed conveyors for proper operation. * Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying ...

Industrial Equipment Operator

Petoskey, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

We are currently seeking an Industrial Equipment Operator to operate various equipment such as a lathe, knife grinder, debarker, jointer, splicer and plywood press. You will need to have a ...

Operates, lubricates, cleans, and inspects strander, debarker and other associated in feed and out feed conveyors for proper operation. * Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying ...

Monitor logs being fed into the debarker drum and notify chipper operator of any problems (i.e. hung up logs, jams, etc.). * Escalate visual issues and remove eject in-feed logs for embedded rocks or ...

General Labor $17.85-$19

Emmett, ID · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Edger Resaw Trimmer Sorter/Stacker Stacker outfeed Small/Large Debarker Bin Tender • Maintains a clean and organized work area. • Performs other duties as assigned. Company Values • Safety • ...

Chip Mill Operator

Garysburg, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Troubleshooting and operation of all woodyard equipment i.e. debarker, chipper, bark hog, all chains, and conveyance systems * Operate computers and HMI screens to monitor and correct operational ...

Woodyard Operator I

Newbern, AL · On-site

$13 - $17/hr

Demopolis, AL In this role, you will be responsible for operation of a log crane, chipper/debarker and/or mobile equipment at a wood pellet manufacturing facility.  It also requires maintenance of ...

Woodyard Operator I

Pineville, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

So, what will you be doing?    In this role, you will be responsible for operation of a log crane, chipper/debarker and/or mobile equipment at a wood pellet manufacturing facility.  It also ...

Woodyard Operator I

Cuba, AL · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Demopolis, AL In this role, you will be responsible for operation of a log crane, chipper/debarker and/or mobile equipment at a wood pellet manufacturing facility.  It also requires maintenance of ...

Woodyard Operator I

Jonesboro, LA · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

So, what will you be doing?    In this role, you will be responsible for operation of a log crane, chipper/debarker and/or mobile equipment at a wood pellet manufacturing facility.  It also ...

Woodyard Operator I

Sicily Island, LA · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

So, what will you be doing?    In this role, you will be responsible for operation of a log crane, chipper/debarker and/or mobile equipment at a wood pellet manufacturing facility.  It also ...

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Debarker information

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How much do debarker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for debarker in the United States is $20.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are debarkers and what do they do?

Debarkers are machines or professionals responsible for removing the bark from logs before they are processed further in lumber mills or wood production facilities. This process helps prepare the wood for sawing, reduces wear on saws and other equipment, and improves the quality of the final wood products. Debarker operators typically monitor and adjust machinery, inspect logs for defects, and ensure safe and efficient operation throughout the process.

What are some typical safety challenges faced by Debarkers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Debarkers often work with heavy machinery and moving parts, which presents specific safety challenges such as potential for injury from rotating blades and exposure to wood dust. To manage these risks, it is essential to follow strict safety protocols, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, eye protection, and masks, and participate in regular safety training sessions. Many facilities also implement lockout/tagout procedures and routine equipment inspections to further reduce hazards. Maintaining awareness and adhering to established safety guidelines is crucial for anyone considering a role as a Debarker.

What is the difference between Debarker vs Saw Filer?

AspectDebarkerSaw Filer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in machinery operationHigh school diploma; specialized training in saw blade sharpening and maintenance
Work EnvironmentWood processing plants, sawmillsSawmills, woodworking facilities
Job RoleRemoves bark from logs to prepare for processingMaintains and sharpens saw blades for cutting equipment

While both roles are essential in wood processing, a Debarker focuses on removing bark from logs to facilitate further processing, whereas a Saw Filer specializes in maintaining and sharpening saw blades to ensure efficient cutting. Both jobs require technical skills and are commonly found in sawmills and wood manufacturing facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Debarker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Debarker, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a basic understanding of wood processing, often acquired through on-the-job training or relevant experience in lumber mills. Familiarity with industrial debarking machines, safety protocols, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills for this position. These skills ensure efficient operation, minimize downtime, and maintain safety and quality standards in timber processing environments.
More about Debarker jobs
What job categories do people searching Debarker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Debarker jobs are:
Infographic showing various Debarker job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,885 per year, or $20.6 per hour.
Sawmill Machine Operator

Sawmill Machine Operator

UFP Industries

Bowling Green, VA • On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


UFP Industries rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

283rd of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Title: Sawmill Machine Operator
Location: Bowling Green, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $22.00-$28.00 per hour, depending on experience
Position Summary
The Sawmill Machine Operator is responsible for safely operating production equipment in a pine sawmill environment. Equipment may include the debarker, multi-trim saw, gang box saw, double arbor gang saw, edger, or other related sawmill machinery.
This position requires mechanical aptitude, strong safety awareness, good communication, and the ability to make quick production decisions that help maintain material flow, reduce waste, and support overall mill performance. Operators must be able to monitor equipment, watch lumber flow, recognize problems, and work as part of a team to keep the mill running safely and efficiently.
Essential Functions
  • Safely operate assigned sawmill production equipment, which may include the debarker, multi-trim saw, gang box saw, double arbor gang saw, edger, or similar machinery.
  • Monitor material flow before, through, and after the machine to help maintain steady production.
  • Make quick, production-focused decisions to avoid waste, reduce jams, and keep lumber or logs moving properly.
  • Watch for equipment issues, poor cuts, misalignment, jams, abnormal sounds, vibration, hydraulic issues, or other signs of trouble.
  • Make basic adjustments within authorized limits to support safe operation, production flow, and product quality.
  • Communicate clearly with sawyers, forklift operators, maintenance employees, supervisors, and other machine operators.
  • Work with team members to prevent bottlenecks, clear issues safely, and maintain efficient production flow.
  • Perform routine operator checks, cleanup, and basic housekeeping in the assigned work area.
  • Report mechanical issues, safety concerns, quality problems, material flow issues, and downtime causes to the supervisor or maintenance team.
  • Follow all company safety procedures, including PPE, lockout/tagout, machine guarding, and safe work practices around sawmill equipment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support sawmill operations.

Safety Responsibilities
  • Operate equipment only when guards, controls, emergency stops, and safety devices are functioning properly.
  • Never bypass safety devices or reach into moving equipment.
  • Follow lockout/tagout and energy-control procedures before clearing jams, making adjustments, or entering restricted areas when required.
  • Maintain awareness of moving logs, lumber, conveyors, saws, forklifts, and other employees.
  • Stop and report unsafe conditions, equipment issues, jams, or abnormal machine operation immediately.
  • Help maintain a clean and organized work area to reduce trip hazards, debris buildup, and unsafe conditions.

Required Qualifications
  • Prior experience in a sawmill, lumber operation, manufacturing, equipment operation, farming, construction, warehouse, or similar hands-on work environment.
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to recognize when equipment is not operating correctly.
  • Strong attention to safety, production flow, and quality.
  • Ability to make quick decisions in a fast-paced production environment.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and work well as part of a team.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Reliable attendance and willingness to learn multiple sawmill machine positions.
  • Must be at least 18 years old.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous sawmill, pallet, lumber, or wood products experience.
  • Experience operating equipment such as a debarker, trim saw, gang saw, edger, resaw, stacker, sorter, or similar machinery.
  • Experience with conveyors, hydraulic systems, saws, motors, chains, belts, sensors, or other industrial equipment.
  • Forklift, loader, maintenance, welding, or fabrication experience.
  • Ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues and communicate clearly with maintenance.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment
This position works in an industrial pine sawmill environment with exposure to noise, sawdust, moving equipment, logs, lumber, sharp cutting equipment, vibration, weather conditions, and varying temperatures. The primary physical requirements of this role involve operating machine controls, monitoring material flow, communicating with team members, safely accessing the operator area, and performing occasional manual efforts as needed. Some machines may require more manual handling than others. The employee may be required to sit or stand for extended periods, walk, climb steps or platforms, bend, twist, reach, and perform occasional lifting or material handling. Heavy repetitive lifting is not the primary function of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Schedule
This is a full-time position. Overtime, weekends, and schedule flexibility may be required based on production needs, equipment needs, or project work.
Advancement / Cross-Training Opportunity
Employees in this position may have the opportunity to cross-train on multiple sawmill machines and advance based on safety record, attendance, work ethic, mechanical aptitude, communication, and ability to learn additional equipment.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The company is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
on
Pay Range: $22.00-$28.00 per hour, depending on experience. Candidates with strong sawmill experience, proven mechanical aptitude, and the ability to recognize, troubleshoot, and communicate equipment issues may be considered for a higher starting wage.
Currently offered to our employees:
  • Medical insurance
  • Health savings account with company contribution
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Basic and voluntary life insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Stock purchase program with employee discount
  • Educational reimbursement
  • Wellness programs and challenges
  • Other supplemental benefits

The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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About UFP Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Universal Forest Products, Inc., is a U.S.-based global corporation that finds reward in its roots and its hard-earned success. Founded in 1955 as a supplier of lumber to the manufactured housing industry, Universal today is a multibillion-dollar holding company with subsidiaries around the globe that serve three robust markets: retail, industrial and construction. Since 1993, Universal has been publicly traded (Nasdaq: UFPI). We re headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Industry

Wood product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Grand Rapids, MI, US

Year founded

1955

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