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Sawmill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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, 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 ...

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 ...

Accounting Assistant

Dublin, OH

$18.75 - $24.50/hr

Family-owned and operated since 1968, Tansky Sawmill Toyota has gained a prominent reputation for unmatched community involvement and the honest approach we take with our customers. We strive to ...

SORTER BIN OPERATOR

Hazlehurst, GA · On-site

$10.75 - $13.50/hr

The Sorter Bin Operator is responsible for managing and operating the lumber sorting system to ... Communicate with sawmill team to maintain consistent production flow * Clear jams, remove debris ...

Accounting Assistant

Dublin, OH

$18.75 - $24.50/hr

Family-owned and operated since 1968, Tansky Sawmill Toyota has gained a prominent reputation for unmatched community involvement and the honest approach we take with our customers. We strive to ...

$15 - $17.50/hr

As a Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and products throughout our sawmill. You'll operate our powerful forklifts and other equipment to move, stack, and organize ...

$15 - $17.50/hr

As a Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and products throughout our sawmill. You'll operate our powerful forklifts and other equipment to move, stack, and organize ...

Forklift Operator

El Dorado, AR · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

As a Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and products throughout our sawmill. You'll operate our powerful forklifts and other equipment to move, stack, and organize ...

$15 - $17.50/hr

As a Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and products throughout our sawmill. You'll operate our powerful forklifts and other equipment to move, stack, and organize ...

Accounting Assistant

Dublin, OH

$18.75 - $24.50/hr

Family-owned and operated since 1968, Tansky Sawmill Toyota has gained a prominent reputation for unmatched community involvement and the honest approach we take with our customers. We strive to ...

Heavy Duty Mechanic

Deridder, LA · On-site

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

You'll perform everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs, helping to keep our sawmill operating efficiently. If you love getting your hands dirty, solving mechanical puzzles, and being a ...

$15 - $17.50/hr

As a Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and products throughout our sawmill. You'll operate our powerful forklifts and other equipment to move, stack, and organize ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Production Team Member

Interfor

Thomaston, GA • On-site

$28.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Interfor rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Sawmill Production Team Member, Thomaston, Georgia
At Interfor, we're more than a lumber company - we're helping build the homes, businesses, schools, and communities that people rely on every day. As a Sawmill Production Team Member in Thomaston, Georgia, you'll be part of a team that safely produces high-quality lumber products in a manufacturing environment. This is an entry-level opportunity with on-the-job training, making it a great fit for individuals who are safety-focused, dependable, and eager to grow their careers with a leading forest products company.
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 operator, and other skilled roles.
The starting rate for this position is $19.14 per hour with the potential to grow to $28.65 per hour based on skill level and experience.
What You'll Do
  • Support daily sawmill operations and production activities.
  • Maintain housekeeping and clean-up in assigned work areas.
  • Assist with keeping lumber moving efficiently throughout the mill.
  • Follow all safety procedures and operational guidelines.
  • Learn and develop skills across multiple production areas.
  • Work collaboratively with team members to meet production goals.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by leadership.

What You'll Bring
  • Strong commitment to safety.
  • Reliable attendance and a positive work ethic.
  • Willingness to learn and take on new responsibilities.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced industrial environment.
  • Ability to work in varying weather and seasonal conditions.
  • High School Diploma or GED preferred but not required.

Physical Requirements
  • Walking, standing, climbing, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work around moving equipment and machinery.
  • Ability to work extended shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed.

What We Offer
  • Group Benefit Programs (Employee Medical, Dental, Vision Plans)
  • HSA Medical Plan
  • 401(k) Matching Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & Paid Holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Training & Development Opportunities
  • Instant access to your wages ahead of payday

Interfor is one of the largest forest products companies in the world and we're growing in exciting directions. We want you to grow your career with Interfor. With our industry leading training programs and track record of promotion from within, you'll have plenty of opportunities to #StartHereGoFar.
We appreciate the interest of all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. All applicants offered a position must successfully complete a pre-employment drug test and background check. Interfor is an Equal Opportunity Employer building a capable, committed, diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual identity, gender, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

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