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Sawmill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mueller Pallet

Sawmill Operator

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Duties /Requirements:Operate small mobile sawmill Set up, operate, or tend saws or machines that cut or trim wood to specified dimensions Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications ...

Mueller Pallet

Sawmill Operator

Sioux Falls, SD

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Operate small mobile sawmill Set up, operate, or tend saws or machines that cut or trim wood to specified dimensions. Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications Skid loader and forklift ...

Foxfactory

Sawmill Operator

Punxsutawney, PA

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

What We Do FOX Factory designs, engineers, manufactures and markets performance-defining products and systems for customers worldwide. Our premium brand, performance-defining products and systems are ...

Fox Factory

Sawmill Operator

Punxsutawney, PA

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

What We Do FOX Factory designs, engineers, manufactures and markets performance-defining products and systems for customers worldwide. Our premium brand, performance-defining products and systems are ...

FOX Factory, Inc.

Sawmill Operator

Punxsutawney, PA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

What We Do FOX Factory designs, engineers, manufactures and markets performance-defining products and systems for customers worldwide. Our premium brand, performance-defining products and systems are ...

Marathon Staffing

General Labor

Bowling Green, VA

$18 - $19/hr

This is an entry-level production position with opportunities for advancement into sawmill operator positions for employees who demonstrate strong safety habits, attendance, work ethic, and the ...

Marathon Staffing

Saw operators POV

Bowling Green, VA

$25 - $26/hr

Saw Operator is responsible for safely operating the circle saw in a pine sawmill production environment. This is a skilled production sawyer position, not a grade-sawing position. The primary focus ...

UFP Industries

Sawmill Machine Operator

Bowling Green, VA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Sawmill Machine Operator Location: Bowling Green, VA Employment Type: Full-Time Pay Range: $22.00-$28.00 per hour, depending on experience Position Summary The Sawmill Machine Operator is responsible ...

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Sawmill Operator information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do sawmill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for sawmill operator in the United States is $18.18, 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sawmill Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sawmill Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of wood processing, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial saws, conveyor systems, forklifts, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help operators stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient production, maintaining safety standards, and minimizing equipment downtime in a fast-paced environment.

How much do sawmills pay?

Sawmill operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000 depending on experience, location, and shift. Skilled operators who use machinery and safety certifications may earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for lumber processing.

What is the difference between Sawmill Operator vs Lumber Mill Worker?

AspectSawmill OperatorLumber Mill Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentOperate machinery in sawmill facilitiesAssist in lumber processing, general labor
Industry UsagePrimary role in sawmill operationsSupport role in lumber production

The main difference is that Sawmill Operators are responsible for operating and maintaining sawmill machinery, while Lumber Mill Workers typically perform supporting tasks in the lumber processing environment. Sawmill Operators require specific certifications and have more technical responsibilities, whereas Lumber Mill Workers focus on manual labor and assistance within the same industry.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Sawmill operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, especially in high-demand facilities or with overtime. These roles typically require technical skills, safety training, and knowledge of machinery but do not usually require a college degree. High-paying positions in skilled trades or industrial settings often offer such wages based on experience and shift differentials.

What does a Sawmill Operator do?

A Sawmill Operator is responsible for operating machinery that cuts logs into lumber and other wood products. They monitor equipment, adjust settings for different types of wood, and ensure the quality and dimensions of the finished products meet specifications. Operators also perform routine maintenance on machines, troubleshoot issues, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. Their role is essential in supplying raw materials for construction, furniture making, and other wood-related industries.

How to become a sawmill operator?

To become a sawmill operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain experience operating machinery and understanding safety procedures. On-the-job training is common, and some employers may require certification in equipment operation or safety standards. Physical stamina and attention to detail are important for working in a sawmill environment.

What are the most common challenges a Sawmill Operator faces during daily operations?

Sawmill Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining safety in a fast-paced environment, handling heavy machinery, and ensuring precision in cutting to minimize waste. They must also adapt to fluctuating workloads due to supply and demand changes and address equipment maintenance issues promptly to avoid downtime. Collaboration with team members, including supervisors and maintenance staff, is essential to keep production running smoothly and efficiently.

How much do sawmill operators make?

Sawmill operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment they operate. Skilled operators with certifications and experience can earn higher wages, often exceeding $60,000 annually in some regions.
More about Sawmill Operator jobs
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What job categories do people searching Sawmill Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sawmill Operator jobs are:
Sawmill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sawmill Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,805 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Sawmill Operator and Tender

Sawmill Operator and Tender

Treeline, Inc.

Lincoln, ME • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description:

Treeline offers competitive wages and GREAT benefits! Some of those include:

  • Family-Focused Business Model
  • Teamwork Mindset
  • Health Benefits (Employee & Family)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(K) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off, Vacation Time, and Holidays
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Employee Discounts
  • Safety/Tool Allowance
  • Uniform Option

About Us

Treeline, Inc. is a diversified company with its core business rooted in Maine's forest product industry. We take pride in a job well done and in our strong commitment as a family and community focused business. Treeline's Sawmill team produces a variety of standard lumber products and mill by-products. Additionally, the sawmill team is capable of producing custom lumber orders sawn to client specifications. Treeline values exceptional, teachable, and positive team players as part of their team!


Position Summary

Treeline's Sawmill Operators and Tenders are the team members who operate the mill and related equipment during day-to-day operations. The Sawmill Operator and Tender position is cross trained for all sawmill related roles and the responsibilities encompass those in the Sawyer, Front End Loader Operator, and Mat Assembler roles. This allows for maximum efficiency and production of the sawmill, wood processing process, and the Treeline woodyard. The Sawmill Operator & Tender is a professional minded, equipment-oriented role in an uplifting and positive teamwork environment.

Sawmill Operators & Tenders operate a head band saw and/or a Baker sawmill to cut planks, timbers, and boards to maximum value by following daily cutting orders and achieving superior log yield. They use a front-end loader and other powered lift equipment to both load the mill and move finished products from the end of the mill to the lumber and mat yards. They operate the Mat Drill safely and used metal ties to assemble mats for heavy equipment use. Mats are built to customer specifications. The Sawmill Operator & Tender Team works closely with the Lumber Sales & Customer Service Person, the Treeline Woodyard, and Treeline's Project Manager ensuring efficient sawmill operation and excellent customer satisfaction.


Requirements:

Qualifications & Experience

Required

  • Valid Driver's License
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Eligible to work in the US

Strongly Preferred

  • General Equipment Operator Experience
  • Joystick Controlled Equipment Experience


Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Overtime

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Chester, ME 04457: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:

  • Sawmill: 1 year (Preferred)


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