Boiler/Kiln Operator Trainee - Hands-On Growth

Stimson Lumber Company; Gaston (OR); On-site; USD 39,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Overtime eligible

Healthcare coverage (80% premium)

401(k) match (6%)

Profit Sharing

Discretionary bonus potential

Paid time off: 9 holidays + 2 weeks

Sick leave: 40 hours/year

Employee referral program: $2500–$5000

Wellness program

Tuition reimbursement

Career development opportunities

Access to company-owned land for rec.

Job summary

Stimson Lumber Company in Gaston, OR is seeking a Boiler/Kiln Operator Trainee to learn safe operation and maintenance of high‑pressure wood-fired boilers. You will work with seasoned operators in a team‑oriented environment focused on safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Starting pay is $28.00-$31.00 per hour with overtime eligibility, rotating day schedule, benefits, and opportunities to advance within our Gaston mill. Must be able to work outdoors around heavy equipment.

Qualifications

• Understanding of environmental compliance related to boiler and kiln operation
• Experience operating rolling stock: D-6 Cat, 950 Cat Loader, forklifts, Bobcat
• Mechanically inclined with interest to develop technical skills
• Flexible as the schedule can vary from day to day, including weekends and overtime
• Must be comfortable in year-round outdoor temperatures, loud conditions, sawdust
• Intermediate computer skills; ability to learn software applications
• Ability to understand and analyze operational data to improve operation
• Candidate must have been employed by Stimson for 6 months prior to applying

Responsibilities

• Operate high-pressure wood-fired boilers safely and efficiently.
• Load and change kiln charges and operate controls.
• Maintain environmental compliance related to boiler operations.
• Perform minor repairs and maintenance on boilers and equipment.
• Communicate with other departments to align boiler operations with goals.
• Suggest improvements to foster continuous improvement mentality.
• Monitor moisture content in each charge and ensure consistency.
• Coordinate with Planer personnel to ensure moisture consistency.
• Clear boiler ash and debris.
• Fill in for other positions when qualified.

Skills

Environmental compliance

Rolling stock operation

Mechanical aptitude

Flexibility

Outdoor tolerance

Computer skills

Data analysis

Safety awareness

Tools

D-6 Cat

950 Cat Loader

Forklift

Bobcat

Job description

Stimson Lumber Company in Gaston, OR is seeking a Boiler/Kiln Operator Trainee to learn safe operation and maintenance of high‑pressure wood-fired boilers. You will work with seasoned operators in a team‑oriented environment focused on safety, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Starting pay is $28.00-$31.00 per hour with overtime eligibility, rotating day schedule, benefits, and opportunities to advance within our Gaston mill. Must be able to work outdoors around heavy equipment.