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Lumber Grader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Quanex

Lumber Grader- Day Shift

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Quanex is looking for Lumber Grader - Day Shift to join our team located in St. Cloud , Minnesota . In this role, you will be responsible for inspecting and grading lumber in accordance with NHLA ...

Jones Capital

Lumber Trader

Hattiesburg, MS · On-site

Source lumber products that meet client specifications for grade, species, volume, and delivery timelines. * Negotiate pricing, contracts, freight logistics, and terms to maximize profitability while ...

John A Biewer Co Inc

LUMBER TRADER

Saint Clair, MI · On-site

Extensive knowledge of lumber species such as SYP, DF, SPF, grades, markets, and industry terminology. Certifications, Education, and Experience: Bachelor's degree preferred but not required. Work ...

John A Biewer Co Inc

LUMBER TRADER

Jackson, MS · On-site

Extensive knowledge of lumber species such as SYP, DF, SPF, grades, markets, and industry terminology. Certifications, Education, and Experience: Bachelor's degree preferred but not required. Work ...

John A Biewer Co Inc

LUMBER TRADER

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Extensive knowledge of lumber species such as SYP, DF, SPF, grades, markets, and industry terminology. Certifications, Education, and Experience: Bachelor's degree preferred but not required. Work ...

John A Biewer Co Inc

LUMBER TRADER

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

Extensive knowledge of lumber species such as SYP, DF, SPF, grades, markets, and industry terminology. Certifications, Education, and Experience: Bachelor's degree preferred but not required. Work ...

JM Hunter Group

Lumber Trader

Atlanta, GA

Lumber Trader We are looking for a driven and self-motivated Lumber Trader to join our team. This role focuses on cold calling and building strong relationships with manufacturers to source and trade ...

Staffworks CNY

Lumber Piler

Smyrna, NY

$16.25/hr

Staffwork is hiring for Full-Time Lumber Pilers for a Lumber Company in Smyrna, NY! WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?! * Excellent starting pay! * Guaranteed Overtime! * Immediately on a track towards long-term ...

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Lumber Grader information

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How much do lumber grader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lumber grader in the United States is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lumber Grader vs Lumber Inspector?

AspectLumber GraderLumber Inspector
CertificationsOften requires grading certifications and trainingMay require inspection certifications, depending on jurisdiction
Work EnvironmentIndoor grading facilities, lumber yardsInspection sites, lumber mills, construction sites
Industry UsageUsed primarily in lumber processing and manufacturingUsed in quality control and compliance checks
Job FocusAssessing lumber quality and grading according to standardsInspecting lumber for defects, compliance, and safety

While both roles involve evaluating lumber quality, Lumber Graders focus on grading lumber based on standards, whereas Lumber Inspectors primarily verify compliance and defect identification. The roles often overlap but serve distinct functions within the lumber industry.

What does a lumber grader do?

A lumber grader works at a sawmill, lumber yard, or commercial establishment grading lumber. As a lumber grader, you inspect hardwood and softwood species to determine dimension, grade, and other qualities. Your responsibilities include working with inspectors and other mill workers to ascertain whether logs become pulp or lumber. Other duties involve scanning lumber for defects and imperfections, labeling them for appropriate sale. You have skills in visually assessing minute details in wood grain and a thorough working knowledge of all typical hardwood and softwood lumber species. Travel is sometimes part of your job, as you travel to mills to grade lumber.

What is a lumber grader?

Lumber Graders are skilled professionals responsible for inspecting and assessing pieces of lumber to determine their quality, grade, and usability based on industry standards. They look for defects such as knots, splits, or warping, and classify lumber accordingly to ensure it meets the requirements for different construction or manufacturing purposes. Their work helps maintain safety and quality in wood products by ensuring only appropriate materials are used for each application.

What are some common challenges faced by lumber graders on the job?

Lumber Graders often face challenges such as maintaining accuracy and consistency while inspecting large volumes of lumber in fast-paced environments. They need to quickly identify defects, such as knots or splits, and classify wood according to stringent industry standards, which requires sharp attention to detail. Working conditions may include exposure to sawdust, noise, and varying temperatures, so adaptability and adherence to safety protocols are important. Collaboration with sawmill operators and other production staff is also essential to ensure quality and meet production goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lumber grader?

To thrive as a Lumber Grader, you need a solid understanding of wood types, grading standards, and defect identification, often supported by on-the-job training or certification programs. Familiarity with lumber grading rules, calipers, moisture meters, and computerized grading systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure accurate grading, maximize product value, and maintain safety and efficiency in lumber production operations.
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Lumber Grader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lumber Grader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,741 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Hardwood Lumber Grader / Inspector Summary

Northland Forest Products Inc.

Kingston, NH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description:

Northland Forest Products is hiring for a hardwood lumber grader / inspector. This is a great opportunity for an individual with prior lumber grading experience. This person would be grading green and dry hardwood lumber with an emphasis on quality assurance. This is a full-time opportunity working for a world class hardwood lumber manufacturer.


Responsibilities Include

  • Applies NHLA grading rules to inspect lumber at production rates, while maintaining the required grading accuracy
  • Communicates with sawyers, machine operators and maintenance to ensure a consistent flow of quality lumber
  • Work safely and help maintain a safe work environment

Benefits Offered:

  • 401(K)
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • AD&D Insurance
  • Short & Long Term Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
Requirements:
  • NHLA certified or equivalent experience
  • Possess ability to accurately apply NHLA rules
  • Minimum of one (1) year experience grading green and kiln dried domestic lumber - this is not an entry level position
  • Experience and ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with a focus on safety and quality