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Lumber Yard Associate Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Yard Associate- Oskaloosa

Oskaloosa, KS · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

Yard associates are expected to maintain a positive representation of Oskaloosa Lumber by providing an outstanding customer service experience consistent with company values. The main task of a yard ...

Driver Non CDL/Yard Associate

Liberal, KS

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Mead Lumber Company is a leading provider of products for professional contractors, builders, and remodelers. With 50+ operating locations across nine Midwestern states, we are proud to be 100 ...

Driver Non CDL/Yard Associate

Liberal, KS · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Mead Lumber Company is a leading provider of products for professional contractors, builders, and remodelers. With 50+ operating locations across nine Midwestern states, we are proud to be 100 ...

Lumber Yard Associate information

See Kansas salary details

$8

$14

$19

How much do lumber yard associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for lumber yard associate in Kansas is $14.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lumber yard associate do?

A Lumber Yard Associate is responsible for assisting customers, loading and unloading lumber and building materials, maintaining inventory, and ensuring the yard is organized and safe. They may also operate forklifts or other equipment to move heavy items and help customers select the right products for their projects. Good communication skills and physical stamina are important for this role, as it often involves outdoor work in various weather conditions.

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

To thrive as a Lumber Yard Associate, you need basic math and measurement skills, physical stamina, and experience handling building materials, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with forklifts, pallet jacks, inventory management systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. These skills ensure safe and efficient operations, accurate order fulfillment, and positive customer experiences in the lumber yard.

What are some common challenges lumber yard associates face during their shifts, and how can they effectively manage them?

Lumber Yard Associates often encounter challenges such as handling heavy materials, working in varying weather conditions, and maintaining accurate inventory. Effective management involves using proper lifting techniques, wearing appropriate safety gear, and staying organized with inventory tracking. Good communication with team members and customers also helps streamline workflow and ensures a safer, more efficient yard environment.

What is the difference between Lumber Yard Associate vs Hardware Store Associate?

AspectLumber Yard AssociateHardware Store Associate
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require forklift certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic product knowledge
Work EnvironmentOutdoor and indoor lumber yard, heavy equipment useIndoor retail space, customer service focus
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, building supply companiesHome improvement, retail hardware stores
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for retail and warehouse roles in building materialsRelated but more retail-focused

The Lumber Yard Associate and Hardware Store Associate roles share similarities in customer service and basic product knowledge. However, Lumber Yard Associates typically work outdoors with heavy equipment and focus on building materials, while Hardware Store Associates work indoors in retail settings, assisting customers with a variety of hardware products. Both roles require a high school diploma and are common in the construction and retail industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lumber Yard jobs in Kansas?

The most popular types of Lumber Yard jobs in Kansas are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Lumber Yard Associate jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Lumber Yard Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Lumber Yard Associate job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,578 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Yard Associate- Oskaloosa

Oskaloosa, KS • On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • varies by location
  • Locally owned and operated
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Employee discounts

You might be a great fit if
  • You enjoy serving others as we would like to be served.
  • Making the best even better.
  • You enjoy making a difference in your community.
  • You enjoy helping others.
  • You enjoy working in teams.
  • You're motivated to learn new skills.

Job Summary:
Yard associates are expected to maintain a positive representation of Oskaloosa Lumber by providing an outstanding customer service experience consistent with company values. The main task of a yard associate is to assist customers and maintain a clean and efficient lumberyard. They should be willing to continually learn and expand their knowledge of the retail industry. Their job will include, but is not limited to, the following responsibilities:
Responsibilities:
  • Provide excellent customer service by assisting customers, both in person and on the phone, answering their questions, helping them find merchandise, and suggesting add-on sales that will help them complete their project. This may also include processing special orders.
  • Knowledge of point-of-sale systems in order to assist with price lookup, special orders, and order entry.
  • Create an inviting environment for customers by maintaining a clean and orderly lumberyard, which will include housekeeping tasks as needed.
  • Notify customers of upcoming promotions and new products.
  • Assist in taking regular inventory of stock.
  • Assist with loading customer's vehicles. Check invoices to make sure the correct products are loaded.
  • Assist with daily upkeep and straightening of lumber stacks.
  • Help yard staff with other tasks as needed.
  • Be vigilant to identify shoplifters and other types of theft. Respond with appropriate action, according to store policy.
  • Attend all staff meetings.
  • Adhere to all store policies and safety standards.

Qualifications:
  • Outstanding customer service skills and professional attitude.
  • A working knowledge of the products in the store with a willingness to continue to learn.
  • Organized, self-starter who thinks independently and solves problems.
  • Strong math, reading, writing, and communication skills.
  • Knowledge of effective sales methods and techniques.
  • Understand how to safely operate a forklift.
  • Ability to lift up to 80lbs on a regular basis.

Goals:
  • Continually expand knowledge of all departments, both in the lumberyard and retail store.
  • Become a versatile employee, able to help in other areas as needed.
  • After enough experience, become a mentor to new employees and help them understand products and retail concepts.

No matter who you are or where you call home, you add something powerful to any team you're on. Maybe it's a drive to achieve, a need to discover or create, or a desire to help others. As a part of our team, you'll use your unique talents, vision, and passion to help support our communities-through the best of times and the greatest challenges.