Beam and Column Sawline Operator (I and II)

Freres Engineered Wood; Lyons (OR); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wage

PTO

Health insurance

401(k)

Profit-sharing

Employee discounts

Job summary

Freres Engineered Wood in Lyons, Oregon is seeking Beam and Column Sawline Operators (I and II) responsible for operating CNC equipment in wood manufacturing. Entry-level Operators focus on learning while senior Operators troubleshoot and mentor.

The position comes with competitive wages, PTO, health, and retirement benefits, including 401(k) and profit-sharing. Employee discounts with select vendors are also offered.

Qualifications

• Basic understanding of industrial math and safety procedures.
• 1–3 years of experience in wood fabrication preferred.
• Advanced ability to read blueprints and perform complex calculations.

Responsibilities

• Operate CNC beam saws and related equipment efficiently.
• Mentor and train Level I operators.
• Assist with downloading and managing CNC programs.

Skills

CNC beam saw operation

Wood fabrication

Troubleshooting

Blueprint reading

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Forklifts

CNC machinery

Job description

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 is an entry‑level position focused on learning machine operation, basic setup, material handling, and quality checks under supervision.

Operator II is a senior‑level position that requires greater independence, advanced troubleshooting, complex setup, and the ability to mentor others.

Essential Functions

• Operate, load, and unload CNC beam saws and related equipment.
  • Read a 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 a 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, etc.)
  • 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 (tape measure, calipers) 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

• Operator I (Entry Level)
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Basic understanding of industrial math and safety procedures
  • Ability to read a tape measure and perform simple calculations
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions
  • Demonstrated ability to work safely at all times
  • Good vision (close, distance, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus)
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision after training
• Operator II (Experienced/Senior Level)
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 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
• Both Levels
  • Previous experience in a plywood, lumber, or engineered wood facility is preferred

Benefits

We offer a highly competitive wage, PTO, health, dental and life insurance, Section 125, 401(k), profit‑sharing, holiday pay, and discretionary profit‑sharing quarterly bonuses.

Employee discounts are available, including Columbia Sportswear, Carhartt, and other vendors.