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Lumber Drying Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rex Lumber, Troy, LLC

Operator-Dry Kiln Forklift

Troy, AL · On-site

$13.75 - $16/hr

The operator will monitor the drying process and report any issues to the supervisory team, ensuring that quality standards are met. Additionally, the role involves adhering to safety protocols and ...

baillielumberco

Log Yard Technician

Trempealeau, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

We utilize a modern sawmill and drying facility, producing high quality lumber, timbers and other ... Experience operating front-end loader and/or knuckle boom preferred * A degree from a two year ...

Marathon Staffing

Shift Supervisor PAL

Hartselle, AL

$24 - $25/hr

You will lead a team of machine operators and laborers, managing everything from raw material ... Monitor various stages of processing--including sawing, drying, planing, and treatment--to ensure ...

Woodgrain

Boiler Attendant - 3rd Shift

Independence, VA

$17 - $19/hr

... owned and operated. Job Summary: The Boiler Attendant maintains pressure set points and chemicals to keep the boiler steam at the correct level for drying lumber properly. The position reports ...

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Lumber Drying Operator information

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How much do lumber drying operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 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.

More about Lumber Drying Operator jobs
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

General Laborer

Northern Hardwoods Lumber LLC

Atlantic Mine, MI • On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Northern Hardwoods in Atlantic Mine, Michigan is hiring General Laborers. We offer a Sign on Bonus, Monthly Production Bonus, Competitive Wage, Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Short Term Disability, 4% 401K Company Match, Vacation and Holidays.

About the Role

Responsible for providing efficient, effective assistance in the stacking of lumber packs and dropping bins.

Essential Function / Duties

  • Sticker lumber during the stacking process.
  • Removes broken stickers.
  • Cuts ends off boards.
  • Staples tags to packs and sprays tag information on packs
  • Put bolsters on packs.
  • Removes lumber from chain and places on carts.
  • Checks lumber thickness, length, and grade, piling accordingly.
  • Sorts out defects improperly manufactured lumber and notifies grader of them.
  • Removes tags from packs and records tag information.
  • Cleans work area and keeps free of hazards.
  • Assist in banding of packs; bolster placement and change over.
  • May monitor sticker bin.
  • May use chop saw and rip saw for re-manufacturing.
  • Commitment to working as a team to ensure all tasks, duties and projects are completed.
  • Cuts lumber pack ends.
  • Removes straps and crossers from packs, puts crossers on packs.
  • Bands truck pack.
  • Operates forklift to load and unload wood bins and haul banding.
  • Removes snow in the winter.
  • Cuts bolsters and crossers to length.
  • Repairs bolsters and sticker racks
  • Follows standard operating procedures.
  • Drops Lumber bins in stacker.
  • May use computer skills to report production, maintenance, or help needed.
  • Performs all other duties assigned by supervisor.


Minimum Qualifications

Education: High School or equivalent
Experience: None

Please see the attached job description for more details.

About Northern Hardwoods

Northern Hardwoods is an integrated hardwoods products company that manages the entire forest-to-products process, from harvesting timber to the production of hardwood lumber, pulpwood, and veneer logs in a State-Of-The-Art Hardwood Sawmill. Northern Hardwoods prides itself on its one-of-a-kind white hard maple. The company has capabilities to Surface 2 Sides (S2S) all its products, along with Straight Line Rip One Edge and Rip to Width. Northern Hardwoods specializes in slow drying pre-dry and kiln operation, sustainable forest management, and ripped to width lumber strips. Please visit our website www.northernhardwoods.com to learn more about the company.

Northern Hardwoods is a portfolio organization of the J.M. Longyear family of companies. Headquartered in Marquette, Michigan, J.M. Longyear is a privately held asset-based manager with 150 years of experience growing long-term value. Longyear's interests span a vast spectrum of markets that include forestry and land management, mining & metals, hardwood products, manufacturing, real estate, and medical device products. Please visit www.jmlongyear.com for more information.

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