Lumber Procurement Specialist

Element5; St. Thomas; Hybrid; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits package

Professional growth opportunities

Collaborative team culture

Job summary

Element5 in St. Thomas, Ontario, seeks an experienced Lumber Procurement Specialist to optimize lumber supply for mass-timber construction. This hybrid role focuses on building partnerships with sawmills, analyzing data to improve production efficiency, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years in the lumber industry and strong technical expertise. Element5 offers a competitive salary and benefits while promoting a diverse workforce.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in the lumber industry.
• Background in lumber processing, grading, or procurement.
• Knowledge of Canadian wood species and grading standards.

Responsibilities

• Build and manage partnerships with sawmills and traders.
• Analyze lumber sorting data to optimize grading.
• Lead supplier evaluations and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with Production, Engineering, and Quality teams.
• Conduct supplier negotiations and audits.
• Provide on-site support in the manufacturing plant.

Skills

Technical knowledge of lumber processing

Supplier negotiations

Data analysis tools

Communication skills

Analytical problem-solving

Education

Post-secondary education in Forestry, Wood Science, Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Power BI

MS Teams

Job description

Help build the future of mass-timber construction!

Element5 designs and manufactures sustainable timber components for commercial and residential projects. We’re looking for an experienced Lumber Procurement Specialist to play a critical role in supporting our mass timber operations by building and strengthening strategic partnerships with sawmills across Canada.

Current Vacancy: 1 Position Available

Employment Type: Hybrid (based in Ontario)

Role Summary

This role ensures a reliable supply of high-quality lumber specifically tailored for CLT and glulam applications. Working closely with Production, Engineering, and Quality teams, the Lumber Procurement Specialist helps drive production efficiency, product performance, and continuous improvement. This is a hands‑on, collaborative role that blends supplier relationship management, technical lumber expertise, and on‑site operational support to optimize material utilization and long‑term supply reliability.

Responsibilities

• Build, manage, and strengthen long‑term strategic partnerships with sawmills and lumber traders across Canada to ensure consistent supply, quality, and performance.
• Analyze scanner‑ and frequency‑based lumber sorting data to optimize grading outcomes in alignment with established quality and performance standards.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives in supplier evaluation and rating systems, leveraging performance metrics and quality outcomes to drive results.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with Production, Engineering, and Quality teams to maximize yield, efficiency, and effective material utilization.
• Conduct supplier negotiations, audits, and on‑site visits to review lumber specifications, pricing, volumes, and identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Provide on‑site support in the manufacturing plant, including floor presence, coaching, and training, to enhance quality outcomes and operational effectiveness.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by management to support departmental and organizational goals.

Qualifications and Skills

• Strong technical knowledge of lumber processing, drying, grading, and sorting practices, including quality control workflows.
• Familiarity with Canadian wood species and NLGA grading standards.
• Knowledge of applicable CSA (O86, O122, O177), ANSI (117, 190.1), and PRG 320 standards is considered an asset.
• Proven experience in purchasing, supplier negotiations, and managing lumber specifications.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data analysis tools, including Excel, Power BI, and MS Teams.
• Ability to work closely with engineering and quality teams to adjust grading parameters and optimize outcomes.
• Clear and effective communicator with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a practical, solutions‑focused approach.

Experience and Education

• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in the lumber industry.
• Background in lumber processing, grading, quality control, procurement, or a related function.
• Post‑secondary education in Forestry, Wood Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Continuing education or industry‑related certifications are considered an asset.

What We Offer

• A chance to shape the future of sustainable construction and be part of the growing mass timber movement.
• A collaborative team culture where your expertise is valued, and your ideas help shape product innovation.
• Professional growth through exposure to cutting‑edge technologies, industry education, and leadership opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including RRSPs and employer‑paid health & dental coverage.

Apply Today

To apply for this position, submit your application through this LinkedIn posting!

Element5 is committed to employing a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.

Element5 is an equal opportunity employer and compliant with AODA/ADA legislation. Should you require accommodations during the recruitment and selection process, please reach out to [e-mail].