Beam and Column Sawline Operator (I and II)

Freres Wood; Lyons (OR); On-site; USD 33,751 - 36,919; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

Health, dental and life insurance

401K and profit-sharing

Employee discounts

Job summary

Freres Wood in Lyons, Oregon is seeking a Beam and Column Sawline Operator (I and II) to ensure safe and efficient operations at their Mass Plywood Panel Manufacturing facility. The role involves operating CNC beam saws and handling materials to precise specifications. Operators I focus on basic operation, while Operators II take on advanced responsibilities. Competitive wages and comprehensive benefits including health insurance and 401K are offered.

Preferred qualifications include a high school diploma and up to 3 years of experience in wood fabrication.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years of experience in wood fabrication or similar manufacturing environment preferred.
• Basic understanding of industrial math and safety procedures.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision after training.

Responsibilities

• Operate, load, and unload CNC beam saws and related equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance such as cleaning and lubrication.
• Set up and monitor complex automated beamline equipment.

Skills

CNC machinery operation

Blueprint reading

Mathematical calculations

Troubleshooting skills

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CNC interfaces

Forklifts

Nesting software

Job description

Job Title

Beam and Column Sawline Operator (I and II)

Branch

Plant 6

Report To

Plant Manager

Schedule

Day, Swing

Employment Status

Full-time

Wage

$24.50 - $26.80 (depending on experience and level)

Job Summary

The Beam and Column Sawline Operator (I and II) is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the Beam and Column Sawline in our Mass Plywood Panel Manufacturing facility. This role involves using saws and automated equipment to cut wood and related materials to precise specifications. Operator I focuses on learning machine operation, basic setup, material handling, and quality checks under supervision, while Operator II requires advanced troubleshooting, complex setup, and mentoring.

Essential Functions

• Operate, load, and unload CNC beam saws and related equipment
• Read tape measure and perform basic math to set up saws and guides to job specifications
• Inspect materials and finished pieces for defects or quality issues
• Assist with packing and transporting finished pieces
• Complete all required paperwork and production documentation accurately
• Maintain clean and safe work area at all times
• Perform routine cleaning, greasing, and basic maintenance on equipment
• Adhere to all safety protocols, including Lock Out/Tag Out procedures
• Wear required PPE (hearing protection, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hard hat)
• Work in a dusty, loud industrial environment

Operator I (Entry Level)

• Start/stop machines, clear basic jams, and perform simple automated tasks
• Load and unload raw materials using forklifts or overhead cranes
• Use basic measuring tools to verify cut accuracy
• Perform routine maintenance such as cleaning and lubrication
• Record basic production counts and maintain accurate scrap reports

Operator II (Experienced/Senior Level)

• Set up, and monitor complex automated beamline equipment with minimal supervision
• Adjust advanced machine parameters (feed rates, tension, pressure) based on material type and thickness
• Troubleshoot mechanical, software, or technical issues beyond basic jams
• Independently read and interpret complex blueprints, engineering drawings, and job travelers
• Assist with downloading and managing CNC programs and nesting software
• Optimize cutting techniques for improved efficiency and yield
• Mentor and train Level I operators
• Help manage production flow to meet daily deadlines

Other Responsibilities

• May be required to perform duties in other areas of the facility as needed
• Forklift experience is a plus

Physical Demands

• Stand for long periods of time
• Occasional lifting up to 50 pounds
• Regularly go up and down stairs
• Good physical stamina required
• Work five days per week, with occasional sixth days
• Ability to work in dusty, loud industrial environments while wearing proper PPE

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Basic understanding of industrial math and safety procedures
• Ability to read tape measure and perform simple calculations (Operator I)
• High school diploma or equivalent (Operator II)
• 1–3 years of experience in wood fabrication, lumber, plywood, or similar manufacturing environment (preferred)
• 2+ years of experience using CNC machinery (preferred)
• Advanced ability to read blueprints and perform complex calculations
• Proficiency with CNC interfaces, nesting software, or ERP systems (preferred)
• Proven troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills
• Previous experience training or mentoring others is a plus
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions
• Demonstrated ability to work safely at all times
• Good vision (close, distance, peripheral, depth perception)
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision after training
• Previous experience in a plywood, lumber, or engineered wood facility is preferred

Benefits

Highly competitive wage, PTO, health, dental and life insurance, Section 125, 401K, profit‑sharing, Holiday Pay, and discretionary profit‑sharing quarterly bonuses. Employee discounts available, including Columbia Sportswear, Carhartt, and other vendors.