Operations Trainee Jobs in Zachary, LA (NOW HIRING)

Weyerhaeuser's Holden Lumber facility is seeking motivated individuals to join our team as Planer Mill Production Trainees. In this role, you will help ensure lumber products are processed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards. This position offers hands-on training, opportunities for advancement, and the chance to be part of a team committed to operational excellence and workplace safety.
Benefits

We offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• Starting pay of $20.41 per hour
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
• Career development, training, and advancement opportunities
• Retirement: Employees are able to enroll in our company's 401k plan, which includes a paid company match in addition to our annual contribution equal to 5% of your eligible pay.

What You'll Do
Equipment Operation & Monitoring

• Operate planer machines and related production equipment.
• Monitor production processes using computer systems, Human Machine Interfaces (HMI), and control panels.
• Feed lumber into equipment and remove finished products from the production line.
• Help maintain smooth production flow by identifying and addressing operational issues.

Quality Control

• Inspect lumber for defects and verify dimensions using measuring tools such as tape measures, calipers, and feeler gauges.
• Ensure finished products meet quality, grade, and customer specifications.
• Communicate quality concerns to supervisors and quality assurance personnel.

Equipment Inspection & Maintenance

• Perform daily equipment inspections and complete required documentation.
• Make routine adjustments to support production efficiency and product quality.
• Assist in maintaining equipment cleanliness and operational readiness.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all company safety policies, operating procedures, and work instructions.
• Verify safety guards and devices are in place before operating equipment.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, hazards, or equipment concerns.

Teamwork & Communication

• Work closely with production, maintenance, and quality teams to support efficient operations.
• Communicate production issues, downtime concerns, and quality observations effectively.
• Support continuous workflow between departments.

Housekeeping & Organization

• Maintain clean and organized work areas, walkways, and equipment stations.
• Properly store tools and work materials.
• Follow housekeeping standards to promote a safe work environment.

Training & Continuous Learning

• Learn and apply lumber grading rules and quality standards.
• Adapt to changing production schedules and operational needs.
• Participate in ongoing training and development opportunities.

• High school diploma or GED
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Basic computer skills, including data entry and reporting
• Ability to work in a physically demanding environment involving:
• Standing and walking for extended periods
• Lifting and handling materials
• Exposure to heat, cold, dust, and noise

Preferred

• Previous experience in a sawmill, lumber mill, or wood products manufacturing environment
  Knowledge of lumber grading rules or quality standards
• Training or certification in lumber inspection or quality control

Skills & Competencies

• Strong commitment to workplace safety
• Quality-focused mindset and keen attention to detail
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment
• Problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities
• Desire to learn and continuously improve

Work Environment

• This position is based in a manufacturing and lumber production facility and may include:
• Exposure to noise, dust, and varying weather conditions
• Operation of industrial equipment and machinery
• Use of hand tools, measuring devices, and quality inspection equipment
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
   

About Wood Products
We've been delivering quality building products and solutions to our customers for more than 100 years. From builders and dealers to specifiers and homeowners, we offer exceptional product performance and unparalleled support.
For more than a century, we've been building our reputation as a leader in sustainable wood products.

About Weyerhaeuser
We sustainably manage forests and manufacture products that make the world a better place. We're serious about safety, driven to achieve excellence, and proud of what we do. With multiple business lines in locations across North America, we offer a range of exciting career opportunities for smart, talented people who are passionate about making a difference. 
We know you have a choice in your career. We want you to choose us. 

Weyerhaeuser is an equal opportunity employer. Inclusion is one of our five core values, and we strive to maintain a culture where all our people feel a sense of belonging, opportunity and shared purpose. We are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce and supporting an equitable and inclusive environment that inspires people of all backgrounds to join, stay and thrive with our team.