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Sawmill Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Swift Lumber

Sawmill Relief Machine Operator

Atmore, AL · On-site

$18/hr

The sawmill machine operator trainee will learn the skills to control automated equipment in the sawmill to process timber into lumber, which involves monitoring machinery, ensuring optimal cuts ...

Wise Staffing Group

Be Seen First

Knuckleboom Operator

Lafayette, AL · On-site

$1/hr

The Knuckleboom Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating a knuckleboom loader to load, unload, sort, and move logs and wood materials throughout the sawmill or wood-processing ...

New

Abbeville Fiber LLC

Machine Operator

Abbeville, AL · On-site

$2/hr

Abbeville Fiber is seeking a Machine Operators for day and night shift. The second shift position ... Operate equipment that feeds lumber and materials through the sawmill * Perform clean-up duties ...

Abbeville Fiber LLC

Machine Operator

Abbeville, AL · On-site

$2/hr

Abbeville Fiber is seeking a Machine Operators for day and night shift. The second shift position ... Operate equipment that feeds lumber and materials through the sawmill * Perform clean-up duties ...

West Fraser

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, Inc

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

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.

Rex Lumber, LLC.

Quality Control Technician

Troy, AL · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Sawmill / Planer Mill About Rex Lumber Rex Lumber has been family-owned and operated for over 90 years and is an industry leader in Southern Yellow Pine manufacturing . With operations across Alabama ...

REX LUMBER,TROY,LLC

Operator-Machine

Troy, AL · On-site

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

... yard, sawmill, kilns, and planer mill--are safe, clean, and free of trash, debris, and waste ... Visually inspect equipment and work areas before operating * Eliminate unsafe conditions whenever ...

Koch Industries

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

This role creates value by learning multiple operator functions in our woodyard and/or sawmill areas. GP employees think critically, demonstrate initiative, work as a collaborative team member, and ...

Interfor

Sawmill Production Team

Belk, AL

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The successful candidate will be reliable, committed, and eager to grow into various positions, including general labor, machine operators, and forklift operators. The starting rate for this position ...

Interfor Us

Sawmill Production Team

Belk, AL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The successful candidate will be reliable, committed, and eager to grow into various positions, including general labor, machine operators, and forklift operators. The starting rate for this position ...

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All JobsSawmill Operator JobsSawmill Operator Jobs in Alabama

Sawmill Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do sawmill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for sawmill operator in Alabama is $16.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $17.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

How do you become a sawmill operator?

To become a sawmill operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training to learn equipment operation and safety procedures. Some employers prefer candidates with experience in woodworking or machinery, and certifications in forklift or heavy equipment operation can be beneficial.

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, especially in regions with high demand for timber processing. Wages may also include benefits such as health insurance and overtime pay.

What are popular job titles related to Sawmill Operator jobs in Alabama?

For Sawmill Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sawmill Operator jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Sawmill Operator jobs in Alabama are:

Sawmill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sawmill Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,266 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Sawmill Utility Operator

The Westervelt Company

Thomasville, AL • On-site

$22.23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Sawmill Utility Operator
Introduction

Westervelt Lumber manufactures high quality wood products using only sustainably sourced wood from our own land and other privately held land to ensure we are responsibly managing our natural resources. With more than 50 years of lumber manufacturing experience, Westervelt Lumber produces a wide variety of high-performance products for customers in both domestic and international markets. Providing high quality Southern yellow pine lumber is what we do best.

When you join our team, you join a company that cares about its employees. We offer excellent wages and an exceptional benefits package including: Blue Cross Blue Shield Health and Dental Insurance, Long Term and Short Term Disability Insurance, Life Insurance, 401k, Paid Vacation, and a Flexible Spending Account.

If you are an experienced Sawmill Utility we would love to talk to you about joining our Thomasville, AL team.
Day in the Life

As a Utility team member, you’ll play a vital role in keeping our operations running smoothly. Your day will include general cleanup around the mill and equipment using tools like brooms, shovels, and rakes. You’ll learn various jobs within the planer mill, sawmill, shipping, or kilns giving you opportunities to advance and support operators when needed. You’ll also operate mobile equipment and help maintain the waste system to ensure efficient production.

Key Responsibilities
  • Perform daily cleanup tasks around equipment in sawmill and other mill areas.
  • Utilize tools such as brooms, shovels, and rakes for general cleanup.
  • Learn multiple roles within the mill to provide coverage and advancement opportunities.
  • Operate mobile equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Understand and maintain the waste system to keep operations running smoothly.
What We Are Looking For

Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Willingness to work any shift, including weekends, holidays, or overtime.
  • Commitment to safety and excellent attendance record.
  • Good communication skills and ability to work in a team environment.
  • Ability to learn and adapt to change.
  • Ability to adhere to all safety policies and regulations, including wearing safety equipment.
  • Ability to work in a noisy industrial environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience operating mobile equipment (front-end loader, skid steer, forklift) in an industrial or manufacturing setting.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Experience in lumber or wood products industry and/or manufacturing.
  • Experience troubleshooting equipment.
  • Sawmill experience preferred.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift at least 40 pounds.
  • Ability to work from elevated positions using required safety gear.
  • Ability to perform tasks such as lifting, walking, climbing, stooping, standing, pushing, and pulling for extended periods.
  • Able to work in a variety of environmental conditions.
Ready to Apply?

If you’re passionate about safety and ready to grow your career in production operations, we’d love to hear from you. The starting rate of pay for this position is $22.23 per hour.

**We Are An Equal Opportunity Employer**

Apply