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Floater Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Act as a floater to learn multiple positions in the mill as needed on a daily basis. * Learn and perform operator roles and responsibilities as assigned. * Learn and perform startup and shut down ...

General Laborer

Lakeview, OR · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Act as a floater to learn multiple positions in the mill as needed on a daily basis. * Learn and perform operator roles and responsibilities as assigned. * Learn and perform startup and shut down ...

Floater Operator information

What is the difference between Floater Operator vs Drilling Operator?

AspectFloater OperatorDrilling Operator
CredentialsRelevant certifications, such as BOSIET, HUET, and offshore safety trainingSimilar certifications, often including IWCF or Well Control certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates on offshore floating platforms or vesselsWorks primarily on drilling rigs, either onshore or offshore
Employer & IndustryOil and gas companies, offshore drilling contractorsOil and gas companies, drilling service providers
Work FocusMaintains and operates equipment on floating platformsHandles drilling operations and equipment on rigs

While both roles involve offshore oil and gas operations, a Floater Operator specializes in operating equipment on floating platforms, whereas a Drilling Operator focuses on the drilling process itself. The certifications and work environments overlap, but their daily tasks differ based on their specific operational focus.

What is a floater operator position?

A floater operator is a worker responsible for operating and maintaining equipment on offshore oil and gas platforms or vessels, often moving between different locations as needed. They typically need technical skills, safety certifications, and the ability to work in challenging environments, often on a rotating schedule.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a floater operator?

To thrive as a Floater Operator, you generally need mechanical aptitude, a high school diploma or GED, and experience in industrial or manufacturing environments. Familiarity with production machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes forklift certification or specific equipment training is often required. Strong attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication help operators efficiently handle multiple tasks and shifts. These skills are crucial to ensure safe operations, maintain productivity, and quickly address issues across different roles on the manufacturing floor.

What is a floater operator?

A floater operator is a worker responsible for operating and maintaining equipment on floating platforms, such as oil rigs or offshore vessels. They typically need technical skills, safety training, and certifications like HAZWOPER or BOSIET, and may work in rotating shifts in offshore environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by a floater operator and how can they be addressed?

Floater Operators often encounter the challenge of quickly adapting to different workstations and processes, as they are required to fill in for various roles across the production floor. This demands a strong ability to learn new tasks efficiently and maintain consistent performance despite frequent changes. Building strong communication skills and proactively seeking clarification or training can help Floater Operators overcome these challenges and ensure smooth workflow transitions. Additionally, being adaptable and organized are key traits that contribute to success in this dynamic role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Floater Operator jobs in Oregon?

For Floater Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Floater Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

$18.10/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 hours ago


Job description

At Collins, we’re committed to building a better world. As a family-owned company founded in 1855, that starts with responsible stewardship of our 370,000 acres of FSC®-certified forestlands. We operate in Chester, California; Lakeview, Oregon; and Kane, Pennsylvania, producing softwood and hardwood lumber. Our Chester location also includes the Builders Supply retail hardware and building materials store.

Position Summary:

The General Laborer position introduces the employee to the basic components of either the green or dry end of the sawmill.  The General Laborer gains experience by performing duties in the assigned mill, including cleanup duties and the operation of one or of various pieces of equipment. This individual performs these duties as assigned until the General Laborer bids into an open position, when available.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Comply with safety standards at all times and correct/report any observed safety hazards.
  • Act as a floater to learn multiple positions in the mill as needed on a daily basis.
  • Learn and perform operator roles and responsibilities as assigned.
  • Learn and perform startup and shut down procedures for specific equipment and department requirements.
  • Sweep and shovel including debris, wood pieces, broken boards, and sawdust.
  • Lift, flip, pull, and push lumber.
  • Operate a full wheelbarrow to clean and haul waste materials and use air to blow the floor and equipment.
  • Maintain waste systems (hog/chipper/conveyors) by identifying clogs and clearing clogged waste.
  • Use hand and power tools such as a circular saw and/or chainsaw to break up materials for removal.
  • Perform additional duties as required by supervisor.
  • On-site attendance is essential to effectively perform the listed duties and responsibilities.

Position Requirements: Must meet position requirements to be considered a candidate for this position.

  • Must be eighteen (18) years of age or older.
  • Knowledge and ability to operate hand and power tools preferred.
  • Ability to follow all company, state and federal safety rules when performing required job duties.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment criminal history check and a pre-employment drug screening.

Environmental Conditions:

May be exposed to dust, noise, trip hazards, and variable temperature and weather conditions. 

Required Personal Protective Equipment:

Individuals must be willing to wear the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times. Positions may require additional PPE at specific times. Examples of PPE which may be required include high visibility garments, hand protection, eye protection, hearing protection, a hard hat, foot protection, and a face shield.