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Debarker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chip Mill Operator

Epes, AL · On-site

$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 ...

Perform line balancing and bottleneck analysis across the mill, from the log deck and debarker through the green chain, kiln scheduling, dry mill, and shipping, ensuring equipment utilization is ...

Perform line balancing and bottleneck analysis across the mill, from the log deck and debarker through the green chain, kiln scheduling, dry mill, and shipping, ensuring equipment utilization is ...

Chippers can be equipped with additional features/attachments, such as a loading boom & grapple, debarker, chip screens, or chip conveyor. Duties & Responsibilities: * The operator safely controls ...

Lead line balancing and bottleneck analysis across the mill, from the log deck and debarker through the green chain, kiln scheduling, dry mill, and shipping, ensuring equipment utilization is matched ...

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Debarker information

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$7

$20

$26

How much do debarker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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 is a debarker?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a debarker?

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.

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.

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Infographic showing various Debarker job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,885 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Production Team Member $17.85-$19.00, Day shift & Swing available

Emmett, ID • On-site

Woodgrain, Inc.
Wood Product Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$14 - $17.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Woodgrain rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Production Team Member $17.85-$19.00, Day shift & Swing available
Posting Start Date: 9/9/26
Division: Lumber
Posting Area: Operations + Manufacturing
Job Location: Emmett, ID
Looking for stability? Join Woodgrain! We're growing fast and offering lifetime careers in a supportive work environment.
About Woodgrain:
Woodgrain is one of the top millwork operations in the world, with locations throughout the United States and Chile. With 70 years of quality manufacturing craftsmanship and service, Woodgrain is a top producer of mouldings, doors, and windows, as well as a premier distributor of specialty building products. Woodgrain Inc. is headquartered in Fruitland, Idaho with six divisions and over 45 manufacturing and warehouse facilities in the United States and South America. Since 1954, Woodgrain is proud to be family owned and operated.
Essential Duties, Responsibilities, Expectations and Performance Measures What measures or metrics will the individual be measured on and what level of performance is required? Other duties may be assigned.
• Monitors equipment and lumber flow for issues that would interrupt production.
• Works with maintenance personnel to perform light preventative maintenance.
• Responsible for Operation/Maintenance and cleanliness over assigned equipment to include:
o Edger
o Resaw
o Trimmer
o Sorter/Stacker
o Stacker outfeed
o Small/Large Debarker
o Bin Tender
• Maintains a clean and organized work area.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Company Values
Which company values are critical for the successful performance of this role?
• Safety
• Integrity
• Respect for People
• Customer Focus
• Servant Leadership
Education/Experience/Certification
• High school diploma or GED
• Production experience a plus
• 1 year of experience working in manufacturing preferred.
• Sawmill experience a plus

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Safety oriented
• Ability to learn computer systems
• Must be a safety minded individual who is comfortable working in a production environment.
• Lifting and physical activity is required for this position, must be able to move boards and wood pieces.

Summary of Company Benefits:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • 401(k) with a Company Match
  • Group Term Life Insurance and AD&D
  • Employer Paid Long-Term & Short-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Supplemental Hospital and Accident Plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 8 Company Paid Holidays & 1 Floating Holiday
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)

Woodgrain is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Woodgrain is a drug, alcohol, and tobacco-free workplace. All offers of employment are contingent upon pre-employment background and drug screening, and some positions require a fitness for duty test.

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