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Sawmill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

baillielumberco

Log Cleaner - Sawmill

Smyrna, NY

$15 - $16/hr

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 ...

Woodgrain

Sawmill Production Associate

Independence, VA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Since 1954, Woodgrain is proud to be family owned and operated. Job Summary: Sawmill Production Associate basic function is the handling, flipping, inspecting, and sorting lumber on a conveyor to ...

Baillie Lumber Co.

Log Cleaner - Sawmill

Smyrna, NY · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

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 ...

John A Biewer Co Inc

RELIEF OPERATOR

Newton, MS · On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Biewer Sawmill located in Newton, MS is looking to hire a Sawmill Relief Operator . As a Sawmill Relief Operator , you are the ultimate utility player. You will cross-train to operate multiple ...

Interfor

Sawmill Production Team

Dequincy, LA · On-site

$18/hr

Sawmill Production Team, DeQuincy, Louisiana Interfor is seeking motivated and safety-conscious ... operators and forklift operators. The startingrate for this position is $18.00 per hour with the ...

Canfor

Forklift Operator

El Dorado, AR · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Iron Mountain Sawmill The hourly wage and bonus opportunities will vary based on position and shift. The Opportunity: As a Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and ...

Interfor

Sawmill Production Team

Perry, GA · On-site

$19.21/hr

Sawmill Production Team, Perry, Georgia Interfor is seeking motivated and safety-conscious ... operators and forklift operators. The starting rate for this position is $19.21 per hour with the ...

Canfor

Forklift Operator

El Dorado, AR

$15 - $17.75/hr

Iron Mountain Sawmill The hourly wage and bonus opportunities will vary based on position and shift. The Opportunity: As a Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and ...

Canfor

Forklift Operator

El Dorado, AR

$15 - $17.75/hr

Iron Mountain Sawmill The hourly wage and bonus opportunities will vary based on position and shift. The Opportunity: As a Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and ...

Canfor

Forklift Operator

El Dorado, AR

$15 - $17.75/hr

Iron Mountain Sawmill The hourly wage and bonus opportunities will vary based on position and shift. The Opportunity: As a Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and ...

Biewer Lumber

SAWMILL GENERAL LABOR

Winona, MS · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Support daily sawmill production by safely operating round table equipment and assisting in various mill operations. This position ensures quality lumber output, maintains production flow, and ...

Hunt Forest Products

General Sawmill Utility

Taylor, LA · On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

This position supports production by removing debris, assisting operators, handling materials, and ... Performs general sawmill cleanup Monitors all waste conveyors to ensure smooth flow of materials to ...

Hunt Forest Products

General Sawmill Utility

Gibsland, LA · On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Sawmill Utility/Cleanup Worker is responsible for maintaining a clean ... This position supports production by removing debris, assisting operators, handling materials, and ...

Interfor

Sawmill Production Team

Swainsboro, GA · On-site

$28.38/hr

Sawmill Production Team, Swainsboro, Georgia Interfor is seeking motivated and safety-conscious ... operators, and forklift operators. The starting rate for this position is $18.58 per hour with the ...

Interfor

Sawmill Production Team

Preston, GA · On-site

$27.82/hr

Sawmill Production Team, Preston, Georgia Interfor is seeking motivated and safety-conscious ... operators, and forklift operators. The starting rate for this position is $17.00 per hour with the ...

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How much do sawmill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 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.

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.

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.
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:
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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,805 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Log Cleaner - Sawmill

baillielumberco

Smyrna, NY

$15 - $16/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

The Baillie Group is a leader in the hardwood lumber industry with operations across North America. Since 1923, we have built our reputation on quality, service, and innovation. Our Smyrna, NY sawmill is seeking a Log Cleaner to join our team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong work ethic, hands-on skills, and chainsaw experience to build a career in the lumber industry.

Position Overview:
The Log Cleaner is responsible for preparing hardwood logs for processing at the sawmill. This role involves using a chainsaw and other hand tools to remove bark, knots, metal, or other obstructions from logs to ensure safe and efficient milling. The position is physically demanding and requires attention to detail, safety awareness, and the ability to work in an outdoor/industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Use a chainsaw and hand tools to clean logs, remove defects, and prepare them for sawing.
  • Inspect logs for foreign materials (e.g., metal, embedded objects) and take corrective action as needed.
  • Follow proper safety practices when operating chainsaws and handling logs.
  • Assist with log yard organization, movement, and staging as directed.
  • Maintain tools and equipment in safe, working condition.
  • Support overall sawmill operations as needed.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Prior chainsaw operation experience required.
  • Previous work in a sawmill, forestry, or other outdoor/industrial setting a plus.
  • Ability to work safely, follow instructions, and maintain attention to detail.
  • Physically capable of lifting, bending, and working on your feet in all weather conditions.
  • Strong work ethic and reliability are essential.

Benefits:

  • Minimum - Anticipated Maximum Salary:$15-$16
  • Full Time Hours + OT available 
  • Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, retirement).
  • Opportunity to gain valuable experience in the lumber industry.

The advertised pay range represents what Baillie Lumber Co. believes and anticipates paying for this position. It is not typical for an individual to be compensated at the top of the range for a position as candidates must possess experience and qualifications that far exceed the requirements.

Federal and NY State Labor Laws https://www.baillie.com/images/NewYorkFederalComboEnglish.pdf

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