Beam and Column Sawline Operator (I or II)

Freres Lumber Co.; Independence (KS); On-site; USD 33,751 - 36,919; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401K

Profit-sharing

PTO

Employee discounts

Job summary

Freres Lumber Co. in Independence, Kansas, is hiring a Beam and Column Sawline Operator (I or II). This position requires operating CNC machinery for wood cutting with responsibilities including quality checks, documentation, and maintaining equipment. Entry-level applicants are welcomed, while experienced candidates are preferred for higher responsibilities. Company offers competitive wages starting at $24.50, health benefits, PTO, and quarterly bonuses. Open to candidates with strong attention to detail and safety compliance.

Qualifications

• Basic understanding of industrial math and safety procedures.
• Ability to read a tape measure and perform simple calculations.
• Demonstrated ability to work safely at all times.
• Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Previous experience in wood fabrication or similar is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate, load, and unload CNC beam saws and related equipment.
• Inspect materials and finished pieces for quality issues.
• Complete required paperwork and maintain documentation.
• Mentor and train Level I operators.
• Optimize cutting techniques for improved efficiency.

Skills

Machine operation

Attention to detail

CNC machinery proficiency

Troubleshooting skills

Blueprint reading

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CNC saws

Forklift

Job description

The Beam and Column Sawline Operator (I or 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 the experienced/senior level, requiring greater independence, advanced troubleshooting, complex setup, and the ability to mentor others.

Job Title Beam and Column Sawline Operator (I or II) Branch Plant 6 Report To Plant Manager Schedule Day, Swing Status Full-time Wage Range $24.50 - $26.80 (depending on experience and level)

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.

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