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Lumber Drying Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

John A Biewer Co Inc

BOILER OPERATOR

Prentice, WI · On-site

Ensure consistent, precise heat and steam delivery to each active lumber drying kiln. Monitor kiln ... Boiler Operator Basic Qualifications: Language skills to read and interpret documents such as ...

Weyerhaeuser

CDK Forklift Operator

Holden, LA

$49/hr

CDK Forklift Operator The Holden, LA lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large ...

Weyerhauser Co

Kiln Forklift Operator

Dierks, AR · On-site

$22.53/hr

The Dierks, AR lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation and the ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Kiln Forklift Operator

Dierks, AR

$22.53/hr

The Dierks, AR lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation and the ...

Weyerhauser Co

CDK Forklift Operator

Holden, LA · On-site

$49/hr

The Holden, LA lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation and the ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

CDK Forklift Operator

Holden, LA

$49/hr

The Holden, LA lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation and the ...

Weyerhauser Co

CDK Forklift Operator

Holden, LA

$49/hr

The Holden, LA lumber manufacturing facility is looking for skilled Continuous Drying Kiln Operator/Forklift Operator with a thorough and comprehensive knowledge of large forklift operation and the ...

Canfor

Dry Kiln Operator

El Dorado, AR · On-site

Step into the role of a Dry Kiln Operator , you'll be responsible for operating and maintaining the kilns that dry our lumber to the right moisture content. You'll monitor the drying process, adjust ...

Collins

Assistant Operator Trainee I

Chester, CA

$23.53/hr

The Powerhouse Assistant Operator Trainee is in the beginning phases of learning to operate and ... lumber drying and generating power for sales. Duties/Responsibilities*: * Comply with safety ...

Collins

Assistant Operator Trainee I

Chester, CA · On-site

The Powerhouse Assistant Operator Trainee is in the beginning phases of learning to operate and ... lumber drying and generating power for sales. Duties/Responsibilities*: * Comply with safety ...

Baillie Lumber Co.

Yard Manager

West Point, VA · On-site

... manufacturing, drying and distribution facilities. The West Point Lumber Yard Manager is ... operators, dry kiln and boiler operators, lumber graders, material handlers and a shipping ...

Weyerhaeuser

Industrial Forklift

Grifton, NC · On-site

$20.97/hr

Minimum of one year of experience operating a large forklift. * Able to work safely and follow all company policies and procedures. * Previous experience drying lumber preferred Must have ...

John A Biewer Co Inc

RELIEF OPERATOR

Newton, MS · On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Manage the mechanical stacking of lumber for drying or further processing, ensuring stable and ... Previous machine operator experience in a sawmill or lumber treating facility or manufacturing ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Industrial Forklift

Grifton, NC

$20.97/hr

Minimum of one year of experience operating a large forklift. * Able to work safely and follow all company policies and procedures. * Previous experience drying lumber preferred * Must have ...

Weyerhauser Co

Industrial Forklift

Grifton, NC

$20.97/hr

Minimum of one year of experience operating a large forklift. * Able to work safely and follow all company policies and procedures. * Previous experience drying lumber preferred * Must have ...

Weyerhauser Co

Industrial Forklift

Grifton, NC · On-site

$20.97/hr

Minimum of one year of experience operating a large forklift. * Able to work safely and follow all company policies and procedures. * Previous experience drying lumber preferred * Must have ...

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Lumber Drying Operator information

See salary details

$5

$18

$19

How much do lumber drying operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for lumber drying operator in the United States is $18.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Lumber Drying Operator, and how can they be managed effectively?

Lumber Drying Operators often face challenges such as monitoring moisture levels to prevent over- or under-drying, maintaining kiln equipment, and ensuring safety standards are met. Managing these challenges requires attention to detail, regular equipment maintenance, and strong communication with the production and quality control teams. Staying updated on kiln technology and best practices can also help operators troubleshoot issues efficiently and maintain consistent product quality.

What does a Lumber Drying Operator do?

A Lumber Drying Operator is responsible for overseeing the process of drying lumber in kilns or dryers to achieve the desired moisture content. They monitor and control temperature, humidity, and ventilation settings to ensure the wood dries evenly and efficiently. Operators also inspect the lumber for quality, make adjustments to machinery as needed, and maintain records of the drying process. Their work is essential for producing high-quality wood that is suitable for construction, furniture making, and other uses.

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

To thrive as a Lumber Drying Operator, you need a solid understanding of wood properties, kiln drying processes, and general mechanical aptitude, often gained through on-the-job training or vocational courses. Familiarity with kiln control systems, moisture meters, and temperature monitoring tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help operators ensure product quality and maintain safety standards. These abilities are crucial for efficiently producing high-quality lumber, minimizing waste, and preventing operational hazards.

What is the difference between Lumber Drying Operator vs Lumber Grader?

AspectLumber Drying OperatorLumber Grader
CredentialsTypically requires OSHA safety training, on-the-job trainingUsually requires certification or training in grading standards
Work EnvironmentIndoor kiln facilities, industrial settingsMill floors, grading stations, indoor and outdoor
Industry UsageOperates drying kilns to reduce moisture contentAssesses and grades lumber quality

The Lumber Drying Operator focuses on controlling and operating drying kilns to ensure lumber is properly dried, while the Lumber Grader evaluates lumber quality and assigns grades. Both roles are essential in lumber processing but differ in their primary responsibilities and skill requirements.

What job categories do people searching Lumber Drying Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lumber Drying Operator jobs are:
Lumber Drying Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lumber Drying Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Full Time, 92% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,000 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Kiln Maintenance / Operator

Kiln Maintenance / Operator

Northwest Hardwoods

Longview, WA

$31.77 - $41.62/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Northwest Hardwoods rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Millwright
Location: Longview, WA
Pay Range:  $31.77-41.62 per hour DOE
Background:

Northwest Hardwoods is the leading manufacturer of hardwood lumber in North America, as well as a leading supplier of panel products from around the world. A fully integrated, global supplier of wood products, NWH serves the furniture, flooring, cabinet, molding, and millwork industries. We are committed to safety, quality, and continuous improvement in everything we do.

We are currently seeking a full-time Kiln Operator / Maintenance Technician for our Longview, WA facility.

Position Summary:

The Kiln Operator / Maintenance Technician is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining lumber dry kilns and associated equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality lumber drying operations. This role supports production goals by monitoring kiln schedules, maintaining proper drying conditions, troubleshooting equipment issues, and performing preventative maintenance activities.

This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in a manufacturing environment while maintaining quality and safety standards throughout the drying process.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:Kiln Operations
  • Operate and monitor lumber dry kilns in accordance with established drying schedules and operating procedures
  • Monitor kiln temperatures, humidity levels, airflow, and moisture content throughout drying cycles
  • Adjust kiln settings as necessary to maintain proper drying conditions and product quality
  • Inspect lumber charges and identify potential drying defects or quality concerns
  • Track and document kiln performance, drying schedules, and moisture readings
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
  • Perform preventative maintenance on kilns, fans, motors, valves, steam systems, and related equipment
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical issues associated with kiln operations
  • Assist with repairs and replacement of motors, bearings, belts, chains, and other components
  • Identify equipment concerns before failures occur to minimize downtime and maintain production flow
  • Coordinate with maintenance and production teams regarding operational issues and repairs
Safety & Compliance
  • Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including lockout/tagout practices
  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment in kiln and mechanical areas
  • Ensure safe operation of kiln systems, steam systems, and related equipment
  • Report safety hazards, equipment concerns, or operational issues promptly
Quality & Continuous Improvement
  • Support consistent lumber quality by maintaining proper drying schedules and kiln conditions
  • Assist with continuous improvement initiatives focused on drying efficiency, product quality, and equipment reliability
  • Monitor moisture content and drying performance to reduce degrade and improve recovery
  • Support operational improvements to increase uptime and production efficiency
Required Qualifications:
  • Industrial maintenance or manufacturing experience preferred
  • Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability required
  • Experience with industrial equipment, motors, bearings, chains, and conveyors preferred
  • Basic understanding of electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems
  • Ability to read gauges, meters, and operational controls accurately
  • Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks effectively
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality
  • Ability to work flexible hours, overtime, and weekends as needed
  • Lumber drying or kiln operation experience preferred but not required  

Northwest Hardwoods provides competitive wages, comprehensive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision health care coverage, paid vacation/holidays, and company matching 401(k) retirement plan.

Candidates who meet these qualifications will be considered further.

Northwest Hardwoods, Inc is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. 

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