Lathe Operator

Columbia Forest Products; Bonfield Township; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia Forest Products in Ontario is seeking a Lathe Operator to run veneer lathe equipment, adjust speeds, and optimize veneer quality while meeting production targets.

You will perform setup, monitor quality, perform routine maintenance, and rotate with other teams as needed, all within a safety-first environment and with hands-on training to become fully qualified.

Qualifications

• Commitment to safety and PPE use.
• Ability to work in a production manufacturing environment.
• Ability to learn technical operating procedures and equipment adjustments.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Ability to rotate into other positions as required.

Responsibilities

• Operate veneer lathe equipment and control operating speeds.
• Produce optimum veneer quality while meeting production targets.
• Monitor veneer quality and stop equipment to identify and correct issues that affect production or grade recovery.
• Set up and adjust the lathe to achieve required veneer thickness specifications.
• Identify mechanical and electrical deficiencies and report concerns promptly.
• Perform routine lathe maintenance and equipment inspections.
• Assist with knife changes, nose bar changes, and machine adjustments.
• Cross‑train and rotate with Reeler Operators and other team members as required.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Follow all company safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Report equipment malfunctions and safety concerns to the Supervisor.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Safety compliance

Production environment familiarity

Procedural learning

Reliability & attendance

Team flexibility

Job description

The Lathe Operator is responsible for operating and adjusting veneer lathe equipment to maximize veneer quality and production while maintaining a safe work environment. Successful candidates will receive extensive hands‑on training and progressively develop the skills required to become a fully qualified Lathe Operator.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate veneer lathe equipment and control operating speeds.
• Produce optimum veneer quality while meeting production targets.
• Monitor veneer quality and stop equipment to identify and correct issues that affect production or grade recovery.
• Set up and adjust the lathe to achieve required veneer thickness specifications.
• Identify mechanical and electrical deficiencies and report concerns promptly.
• Perform routine lathe maintenance and equipment inspections.
• Assist with knife changes, nose bar changes, and machine adjustments.
• Cross‑train and rotate with Reeler Operators and other team members as required.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Follow all company safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Report equipment malfunctions and safety concerns to the Supervisor.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• Strong commitment to safety.
• Ability to work in a production manufacturing environment.
• Ability to learn technical operating procedures and equipment adjustments.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Ability to rotate into other positions as required.

Preferred

• Mechanical aptitude.
• Prior manufacturing, industrial, equipment operation, or maintenance experience.
• Experience working with precision equipment where accuracy and consistency are essential.