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Sawmill Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ashton Lewis Lumber Company

Machine Operator

Gatesville, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Operate equipment that feeds lumber and materials through the sawmill * Perform clean-up duties daily around machines * Other duties as assigned Benefits: • 401(k) • 401(k) matching • Dental ...

Canfor

$15 - $17.75/hr

If this speaks to you, this opportunity at our sawmill in Urbana, AR, might just be your calling ... What you will do as a Machine Operator: * Rotate through various job responsibilities and tasks ...

Canfor

$15 - $17.75/hr

If this speaks to you, this opportunity at our sawmill in Urbana, AR, might just be your calling ... What you will do as a Machine Operator: * Rotate through various job responsibilities and tasks ...

West Fraser

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

West Fraser's Opelika sawmill is hiring for a Machine Operator role. In the machine operator role the expectation is that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

West Fraser, Inc

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

West Fraser's Opelika sawmill is hiring for a Machine Operator role. In the machine operator role the expectation is that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

West Fraser

Machine Operator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

West Fraser's Opelika sawmill is hiring for a Machine Operator role. In the machine operator role the expectation is that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

GB Packaging

Asst Machine Operator

Fort Atkinson, WI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Minimize material sheet, ink and adhesive waste. * Assist Machine Operator in the operation of ... sawmill facility. Headquartered in Green Bay, Wis., Green Bay Packaging Inc. employs over 4,600 ...

Hood Lumber

Relief Operator - Sawmill

Bogalusa, LA · On-site

$19.70/hr

The skilled Sawmill Relief Operator personnel play a vital role in plant safety and production by operating machinery throughout the sawmill to meet and exceed quality and production goals. Duties ...

Hood Lumber

Relief Operator - Sawmill

Bogalusa, LA

$19.70/hr

The skilled Sawmill Relief Operator personnel play a vital role in plant safety and production by operating machinery throughout the sawmill to meet and exceed quality and production goals. Duties ...

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Sawmill Machine Operator information

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How much do sawmill machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for sawmill machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by sawmill machine operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Sawmill machine operators often encounter challenges such as ensuring consistent machine performance and maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced, noisy environment. Managing frequent equipment adjustments and troubleshooting minor mechanical issues are routine parts of the job. Effective communication with team members is crucial, especially when coordinating the flow of raw materials and finished lumber. Regular maintenance checks and adherence to safety protocols help minimize downtime and prevent accidents, contributing to a more productive and secure work environment.

What is the difference between Sawmill Machine Operator vs Sawmill Worker?

AspectSawmill Machine OperatorSawmill Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training on machineryHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentOperating heavy machinery in sawmillsAssisting with various tasks in sawmills
Job DutiesSet up, operate, and monitor sawmill machinesPerforming manual labor, assisting machine operators

The main difference is that Sawmill Machine Operators focus on operating and maintaining sawmill machinery, requiring specific training, while Sawmill Workers typically perform manual tasks and support roles within the sawmill environment. Both roles are essential in the lumber industry but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

How to become a sawmill machine operator?

To become a sawmill machine operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain experience operating heavy machinery. Training is often provided on the job, and familiarity with safety protocols and tools like saws and conveyors is important; some positions may require certification in equipment operation or safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sawmill machine operator?

To thrive as a Sawmill Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial saws, material handling equipment, and safety systems is crucial, and OSHA safety certification is often beneficial. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to workplace safety help operators excel in team environments. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize workplace accidents, and maintain product quality in a physically demanding setting.

How much do sawmill machine operators make?

Sawmill machine operators typically earn an average annual salary between $35,000 and $50,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the machinery operated. Skilled operators with certifications or specialized training may earn higher wages, especially in regions with a high demand for lumber processing. Wages can also vary based on the shift worked and the size of the employer.

What does a sawmill machine operator do?

A Sawmill Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery that cuts logs into lumber and other wood products. Their duties include setting up sawmill equipment, monitoring the cutting process, adjusting machines for different wood sizes, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They also inspect finished products for quality and may perform basic machine maintenance. Attention to detail and mechanical aptitude are important skills for this role.
More about Sawmill Machine Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Sawmill Machine Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sawmill Machine Operator jobs are:
Sawmill Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sawmill Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Machine Operator

Ashton Lewis Lumber Company

Gatesville, NC • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Essential Duties:
  • Load and unload products and materials
  • Monitor machines to ensure the continued movement of lumber and materials through the plant
  • Operate equipment that feeds lumber and materials through the sawmill
  • Perform clean-up duties daily around machines
  • Other duties as assigned

Benefits:
• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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