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Sawmill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sawmill Utility Operator

Thomasville, AL ยท On-site

$22.23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Sawmill SupervisorPosition Summary The Sawmill Supervisor is responsible for leading the safe and ... Ensure machinery is properly adjusted and operating at optimum settings for quality and recovery.

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 ...

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Sawmill Laborer

Coffeyville, KS ยท On-site

$17 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • PTO

The Sawmill Laborer is responsible for operating general saw line, moulder/millwork line, and kiln operations related equipment as well as direct material handling. OSHA Forklift certification is ...

POSITION SUMMARY The Sawmill Supervisor leads the team responsible for all operations in the log ... General understanding of OSHA requirements, LOTO procedures and standard operating procedures

Log Cleaner - Sawmill

Smyrna, NY ยท On-site

$15 - $16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Our Smyrna, NY sawmill is seeking a Log Cleaner to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity ... Follow proper safety practices when operating chainsaws and handling logs. * Assist with log yard ...

Sawmill Maintenance Manager

Chase City, VA

$30 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Sawmill Maintenance Manager Location: Bowling Green, VA Employment Type: Full-Time Pay: $30.00-$35 ... Respond to production downtime issues and work efficiently to return equipment to safe operating ...

Log Cleaner - Sawmill

Smyrna, NY ยท On-site

$15 - $16/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Our Smyrna, NY sawmill is seeking a Log Cleaner to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity ... Follow proper safety practices when operating chainsaws and handling logs. * Assist with log yard ...

Sawmill Production Team

Baxley, GA ยท On-site

$28.38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operators, and forklift operators. The starting rate for this position is $18.95 per hour with the ... Sawmill (5:30 pm to 5:30 am) Planer Mill (4:30pm to 3:30 am) What You'll Do * Complete clean-up and ...

Sawmill Production Team Member

Swainsboro, GA ยท On-site

$28.38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Working as part of our operations team, you'll learn various aspects of sawmill production while developing the skills needed to grow into positions such as machine operator, mobile equipment ...

Sawmill Production Team Member

Monticello, AR ยท On-site

$19.23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As part of our operations team, you'll gain hands-on experience across multiple areas of the sawmill while developing the skills needed to grow into positions such as machine operator, mobile ...

Showing results 21-40

Sawmill Operator information

See salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do sawmill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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?

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 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 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, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with sawmill machinery, safety procedures, and physical stamina are important, and some employers may require certification in equipment operation or safety standards.

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

Who are the top companies hiring for Sawmill Operator jobs?

The top employers for Sawmill Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Sawmill Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sawmill Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Sawmill 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 $37,805 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Sawmill Utility Operator

The Westervelt Company

Thomasville, AL โ€ข On-site

$22.23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 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**