Chip Dozer Operator

Clearwater Paper; Lewiston (ID); On-site; USD 48,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Clearwater Paper Lewiston mill is seeking a hard-working operator to run CAT and Wagner Dozers and support wood handling operations. You will load, inspect, and move chips, sawdust, and hog fuel while maintaining stockpile organization and safe practices.

The role requires a High School Diploma or GED, 2+ years in manufacturing, and the ability to lift up to 40 lbs. You’ll work a 12-hour rotating shift including nights and weekends, with a strong emphasis on safety and teamwork.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• 2+ years of continuous work in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Experience operating heavy equipment or industrial machinery preferred.
• Willingness to learn process systems to advance.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety and environmental stewardship.
• Ability to lift 40 lbs and work a 12-hour rotating shift.

Responsibilities

• Operate and service CAT and Wagner Dozers for 3–9 hours per shift to manage piles and support mill operations.
• Work at the Chip Dock to receive, inspect, and process incoming chip and hog fuel deliveries.
• Coordinate unloading with truck drivers following site safety procedures.
• Record inspections, loads, and equipment conditions.
• Monitor wood handling systems to ensure efficient material flow.
• Perform housekeeping and preventive maintenance tasks in the wood handling area.
• Identify and report equipment deficiencies and safety concerns.
• Assist maintenance with minor tasks as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections and activities.
• Participate in safety meetings and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Reliability/Flexibility

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Where you will work

The Lewiston mill is the largest of Clearwater Paper's facilities, producing paperboard and boasting over 700 talented employees. Approximately two hours away from Clearwater Paper's headquarters in Spokane, Washington, the Lewiston paper mill is a key component in Clearwater Paper's business strategy.

Located on the border of Idaho and Washington, Lewiston provides a host of opportunities for those who love the outdoors including fishing, boating, camping, and skiing. There are several social and civic opportunities to participate in including Boys & Girls Club, Twin County United Way, Lewis Clark Partners Habitat for Humanity, and more. Clearwater Paper values involvement with the community and the partnerships created as a result.

Lewiston is in close proximity to the University of Idaho, Washington State University, and Lewis-Clark State College, as well as several strong K-12 school districts.

What you will do

• Operate and service the CAT and Wagner Dozers for approximately 3-9 hours per shift to safely manage chip, sawdust, and hog fuel piles, maintain stockpile organization, and support continuous mill operations.


• Work at the Chip Dock for approximately 3-9 hours per shift to receive, inspect, and process incoming chip, sawdust, and hog fuel truck deliveries.


• Communicate with truck drivers and coordinate unloading activities in accordance with site procedures and safety requirements.


• Verify delivery information, inspect loads for quality concerns, and document receiving activities as required.


• Monitor wood handling systems and equipment to ensure efficient material flow to production processes communicating with downstream customers.


• Perform routine housekeeping and cleanup activities throughout the wood handling area, including all wood fiber piles, conveyors, roadways, and work areas.


• Conduct preventive maintenance tours and equipment inspections using established routes, checklists, and schedules.


• Identify and report equipment deficiencies, safety concerns, and maintenance needs


• Assist maintenance personnel with minor maintenance tasks when appropriate.


• Maintain accurate records of inspections, equipment conditions, and operational activities.


• Follow all safety policies, environmental regulations, lockout/tagout procedures, and required personal protective equipment (PPE) standards.


• Participate in safety meetings, training activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.


• Support other wood handling operations and perform additional duties as assigned.


• Work closely in a team setting and helping others where needed.

What you will need

To be successful in this position, we are looking for candidates with the following:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent (required).


• 2+ years of continuous work experience in a manufacturing or production-type environment (required).


• Previous experience operating heavy equipment, industrial machinery, or mobile equipment (preferred).


• Willingness to continuously learn process systems to advance into lines of progression.


• Learn required technical skills to operate equipment and programs.


• Strong commitment to workplace safety and environmental stewardship.


• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment in an industrial environment.


• Excellent attention to detail when receiving and documenting incoming loads.


• Ability to work independently and make sound operational decisions.


• Strong communication and teamwork skills.


• Demonstrated reliability, flexibility, and accountability.


• Ability to identify and address housekeeping and equipment issues proactively.


• Physically capable of manual labor that includes bending, walking, sitting, and climbing in and around machinery and equipment for entire 12-hour shift.


• Able to lift, up to 40 lbs frequently, between 40 and 50 lbs occasionally.


• Able to work a 12-hour rotating shift including nights, weekends, and Holidays. Able to work overtime as needed.

Example of a rotating shift

• Day 1: 6:00am - 6:00pm


• Day 2: 6:00am - 6:00pm


• Day 3: 6:00pm - 6:00am


• Day 4: 6:00pm - 6:00am


• 4 days off

In order to be considered for this opportunity, applicants will be required to first complete a pre-employment assessment. The invitation for this assessment will be provided immediately after completing the application and via email. Assessments take approximately 35 minutes to complete. Please complete as soon as possible so as not to delay your consideration for this position. If you have any questions, please contact the Talent Acquisition Team at [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.