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Lumber Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Performs daily work area inspections * Operates equipment safely * Consistently follows all company safety protocols * Stacks/stores lumber and scrap lumber properly so they are stable, secure, and ...

Be Seen First

Inspect the vehicle before starting that day's deliveries to ensure the vehicle is in proper ... Lumber Safety Handbook

Be Seen First

Inspect the vehicle before starting that day's deliveries to ensure the vehicle is in proper ... Lumber Safety Handbook

Position Summary: The Certified Lumber Grader holds grading certification(s) and applies the ... Cooperate with the inspection of completed units to ensure accuracy and profitability. * Assist in ...

Lumber Yard Associate

Skiatook, OK · On-site

$13.75 - $18/hr

... Inspect equipment daily • Assist customers in the yard with loading material • Maintain a clean and safe work environment Requirements: • Ability to lift and move 80# • Good understanding of ...

Position Summary: The Certified Lumber Grader holds grading certification(s) and applies the ... Cooperate with the inspection of completed units to ensure accuracy and profitability. * Assist in ...

Lumber Yard Associate Pay: $18.47- $20.45 hourly Schedule: Monday- Friday 8:00am-5:00pm with ... Performs daily lift inspections * Always looks behind/honks horn when backing/rounding blind ...

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Lumber Inspector information

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$5

$18

$23

How much do lumber inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lumber inspector in the United States is $18.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lumber Inspector vs Wood Quality Analyst?

AspectLumber InspectorWood Quality Analyst
CertificationsTypically required certifications in lumber grading and safetyOften requires certifications in wood testing and quality control
Work EnvironmentInspecting lumber at sawmills, lumber yards, or manufacturing plantsAnalyzing wood samples in laboratories or quality control settings
Industry UsageCommonly employed in lumber production and processing industriesFound in wood product manufacturing, testing labs, and quality assurance roles

While both roles focus on wood quality, Lumber Inspectors primarily evaluate lumber at production sites, ensuring it meets grading standards. Wood Quality Analysts typically perform detailed testing and analysis in labs to assess wood properties. Both roles require knowledge of wood standards and safety protocols, but their work environments and specific responsibilities differ.

What does a lumber inspector do?

A lumber inspector is responsible for examining lumber to ensure it meets specific quality, size, and grade standards set by industry regulations or customer requirements. They assess the wood for defects, such as knots, splits, or warping, and use measurement tools to verify dimensions. Lumber inspectors often work in sawmills, lumberyards, or manufacturing facilities, helping maintain quality control and safety standards. Their work ensures that only lumber meeting quality criteria is used in construction or manufacturing projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Lumber Inspectors in their daily work?

Lumber Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining focus during repetitive inspections, and accurately identifying defects that may not be immediately visible. They must also stay updated on grading standards and safety regulations, as these can change frequently in the lumber industry. Additionally, effective communication with mill workers and supervisors is crucial to ensure that any issues with lumber quality are addressed promptly and production remains smooth.

What Is a Lumber Inspector?

A lumber inspector, also called a lumber grader, uses visual evaluation and measurements to grade lumber products based on the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) Hardwood Lumber Grading Rules standards. As a lumber inspector, your overall responsibilities include examining the lumber after cuts for knots, holes, splits, and other defects, measuring the lumber for thickness, length, and width to ensure they meet specifications, and sort the pieces based on grade and wood type. The lumber grades determine the value of the wood for distribution.

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

To thrive as a Lumber Inspector, you need a strong understanding of wood species, grading rules, and quality standards, often supported by industry certifications such as those from the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA). Familiarity with measuring tools, moisture meters, and grading manuals is typically required. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate grading, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of high-quality lumber to customers.
What cities are hiring for Lumber Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Lumber Inspector job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Lumber Inspector jobs? The most popular types of Lumber Inspector jobs are:
What states have the most Lumber Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Lumber Inspector jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Lumber Inspector jobs? For Lumber Inspector jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Lumber Inspector job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,750 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Maintenance 3 3rd Shift

$26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 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

Northwest Hardwoods Inc.

Marienville, PA

Immediate Multiple Job Openings 2nd and 3rd shifts

Maintenance Electrician, Lumber Inspector, and Clean-up person

Background: Northwest Hardwoods is a world-class, integrated, global supplier of wood products to the furniture, cabinet, molding, and millwork industries. We serve the industrial market segment worldwide. We are searching for a team player with a can-do attitude who enjoys challenges.

Open Positions Overview:

Maintenance Electrician (Manufacturing Exp.) 3rd Shift 11:00 pm to 7:30 am

Pay starting at $22.00/hr. (Based on experience) + Shift Differential

Skills & Requirements:

  • 3 – 5 years of electrical maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.
  • Follow all NWH Attendance policies.
  • Must follow all Lock Out / Tag Out procedures
  • Work as part of the maintenance team to correct and enhance plant operations for the continued success of NWH.
  • Capable of fabricating from drawings and sketches for the rebuilding of existing parts.
  • Follow all established safety policies. Having a good safety record and a positive can-do attitude.
  • Continually improve skills through various educational opportunities offered.
  • Willingness to ask questions if there is a lack of understanding.
  • Willing and able to work any shift – overtime, weekends, and holidays as required and in all conditions.
  • Possess a strong working understanding of electricity, 480v systems, hydraulics, and small hand tools.
  • Capable of doing required documentation legibly, e.g., downtime reports.
  • Able to work as a team, get along with team members; give and take advice and criticism from other team members; good team attitude
  • Strong desire, dedication, and determination to succeed.

 

 

 

Lumber Grader, level 2 or 3 (2nd shift)

Pay starting at $26.00/hr. (Based on experience)

Skills & Requirements:

  • Have a minimum of 3 years of Hardwoods Lumber Grading experience
  • Ability to inspect lumber for defects like knots, holes, splits, stains, decay, and other imperfections. 
  • Ability to measure lumber for thickness, length, and width to ensure adherence to specifications. 
  • Ability to sort lumber into different grades based on defects and wood type, utilizing standard grading rules like those from the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA). 
  • Contribute to the overall quality control of lumber products. 
  • Communicate with sawyers, machine operators, and maintenance personnel to ensure consistent quality and production flow. 
  • Maintain accurate records of inspections and grading. 
  • Maintain a safe work environment. 
  • Any additional duties assigned by the manager.
  • Must follow all NWH policies, including the NWH attendance policy

General Labor Production & Clean-up person, 2nd and 3rd shift (4:00 pm to 1:30 am and 11:00 pm to 7:00 am) + Shift Differential

Pay starting at $15.91/hr. (Based on experience)

Skills & Requirements

  • Self-motivated, stay focused on the task until completed
  • Must follow all NWH policies, including the NWH attendance policy 
  • Stay alert and always be aware of your surroundings.
  • Ability to understand direction.
  • Sweep and shovel sawdust and debris into the convers.
  • Watch chipper, converse to ensure they are running when using.
  • Keep chutes and converse clear.
  • Watch levels in chip and sawdust trailers and switch before overflowing.
  • Empty trash cans around the facility.
  • Stoop, stand, and bend over to reach areas around production machines
  • Vacuum offices as needed
  • Work with Maintenance when needed.

 

 

All positions must accept the following conditions of employment:

  • Agree to work to the NWH safety standard
  • Always wear appropriate PPE
  • Following all NWH work guidelines and policies
  • Follow NWH Attendance guidelines
  • Complete RADAR / Near Miss reporting
  • Effective communication with site and shift leadership
  • Overtime could be mandatory with notice
  • Promote good housekeeping practices daily

Benefits:

  • 401(k) plus matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance

Northwest Hardwoods provides a highly competitive compensation program with a profit-sharing plan. Our comprehensive benefit package includes medical, dental, prescription, and vision care coverage. Pre-tax Health Savings Account and 401(K) Retirement Plan with company match. The company provides life insurance and offers short-term disability, paid vacation and holidays, and an Employee Assistance Program.

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