Wood Machinist

Johnson Bros Group; Newcastle-Maitland; On-site; AUD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Johnson Bros Group in Thornton is seeking an experienced Wood Machinist (A Grade, Level 5) to expertly set up, operate and maintain complex woodworking machinery. You will produce high-precision timber profiles from technical drawings, and grind tooling to match architectural specifications.

The ideal candidate will have 3–5 years post-apprenticeship timber manufacturing experience, be skilled in tool grinding, and capable of mentoring apprentices while upholding safety standards in a busy mill

Qualifications

• 3–5 years post-apprenticeship experience in industrial timber manufacturing.
• Advanced proficiency in tool and cutter grinding.
• Ability to read architectural blueprints and CAD drawings.
• Trade-qualified with Certificate III in Wood Machining.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and maintain complex woodworking machinery end-to-end.
• Interpret technical drawings to produce high-precision timber profiles.
• Grind custom tooling to match profiles.
• Mentor and guide junior machinists and apprentices.
• Ensure safety compliance and quality produce.

Skills

High-precision timber machining

CAD interpretation

Tool & cutter grinding

Safety compliance

Quality focus

Education

Certificate III in Wood Machining

Tools

Multi-head moulders

5-axis CNC machines

Double-end tenoners

Spindle moulders

Routers

Shapers

Job description

Wood Machinist – A Grade (Level 5) – Thornton Maitland Location

Fulltime MONDAY - FRIDAY (early finish Fridays)

• Join one of Australia’s most reputable and longstanding Timber Mills


• Join a dynamic, professional and young minded team in our brand new site in Thornton


• Rare opportunity to become a key player in a fast growing business

We’re Growing — Join Our Award-Winning Team!

Our brand new site in Thornton is now up and running! Be part of the Johnson Bros Group and join our thriving, family-owned business, employing over 160 staff across multiple locations and brands. As we continue to grow and expand, we’re looking for an experienced and professional A Grade Wood Machinist to join our busy Mill team. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a well-established, award-winning company that values teamwork, customer service, and a results driven culture.

About the Role

As a Trade Qualified specialist you will be responsible for the end-to-end setup, operation, and technical maintenance of complex woodworking machinery. This role requires the ability to produce high-precision, custom timber profiles by interpreting technical drawings and grinding custom tooling. Must have proven experience in similar role and sound knowledge of timber industry, safety compliance and wood machine operation.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Tooling & Grinding: Design, grind, and sharpen custom steel knives and cutters to match specific architectural profiles or heritage moldings.


• Complex Setup: Perform full \"from scratch\" setups on multi-head moulders, 5-axis CNC machines, and double-end tenoners.


• Freehand Operations: Safely perform high-risk freehand work on spindle moulders, routers, and shapers without the use of fixed jigs.


• Technical Interpretation: Read and interpret complex architectural blueprints and CAD drawings to determine cutting sequences.


• Mentorship: Provide technical guidance and safety oversight to B Grade Machinists and Apprentices.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Mandatory: Certificate III in Wood machining (or equivalent Trade Qualification).


• Experience: Minimum 3–5 years post-apprenticeship experience in industrial timber manufacturing.


• Technical Skill: Advanced proficiency in tool and cutter grinding.

Immediate Start - the right person will be a seasoned young minded professional who takes pride in their quality of work and contributions to the team. You will have the ability to meet deadlines and possess a strong customer focus.