EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I

Biewer Lumber; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Biewer Lumber, LLC is hiring for a forklift operator responsible for loading, unloading, and safely moving lumber materials in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities include stacking and organizing inventory, identifying damaged goods, and supporting multiple departments to maintain production flow while adhering to OSHA safety policies and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret safety rules and maintenance instructions.
• Ability to write routine production reports and follow specifications.
• Capable of understanding verbal and written instructions.
• Mechanical aptitude to operate industrial equipment.
• Proven reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors.

Responsibilities

• Operate a forklift to load and unload lumber materials.
• Stack lumber and plywood safely in correct storage bays.
• Move stock to maintain accurate inventory.
• Identify product damages and monitor material quality.
• Assist in other departments as needed (splitting, tagging, etc.).
• Follow safety procedures and report accidents or unsafe conditions.

Skills

Forklift operation

Mechanical aptitude

Safety procedures

Inventory handling

Team communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

OSHA safety certification or forklift certification preferred

Job description

At Biewer Lumber, we take pride in producing high-quality fire retardant treated wood and micronized copper azole treated wood products that help build stronger, safer structures across the lumber industry. Our team is driven by safety, trust, quality, and hard work, creating a fast-paced manufacturing environment where employees can grow their skills and make a meaningful impact. Join a company with a strong reputation in the wood products industry and become part of a team committed to excellence from production to delivery.

Summary

Operate a powered industrial truck to load and unload lumber materials, necessitating the skillful maneuvering of wide and complex loads through storage areas, machines, loading zones, and rail cars.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Handle material with a forklift to stack units of dimensional lumber and plywood safely in correct storage bays.
• Load and unload materials from trucks and railcars with a forklift.
• Locate and move stock of products to maintain accurate inventory.
• Identify product damages and monitor quality of materials.
• Work in other departments such as splitting, stacking, tagging, etc. as needed.
• Perform lockout procedures as needed.
• Follow all safety procedures and policies, work together with co-workers to ensure a safe working environment and report all accidents or unsafe conditions to the supervisor.
• Maintain a safe workplace and culture, and complete required safety forms, checklists and permits.
• Sweep floors, pick up broken pieces of lumber, straps and shovel debris.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Language skills to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to write and update routine reports, basic correspondence and follow production specifications.
• Understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to operate industrial equipment.
• Proven reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to speak effectively and professionally to customers or employees of an organization.

Education, Experience And Certifications

High school diploma or equivalent.

Prior Manufacturing Experience Is Preferred

• OSHA safety certification or forklift certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).

Work Environment

• Industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery and mechanical equipment.
• Exposure to bark, sawdust, and fluctuating seasonal temperatures (hot, cold, humid).
• This safety-sensitive position requires employees to comply with all OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and required drug and alcohol testing procedures.
• Work performed indoors and outdoors, including log yard and lumber yard areas.
• Shift work may include nights, weekends, overtime, and extended hours during peak production.

Physical Demands

• Sit inside forklift or walk for extended periods ("8-12-hour shifts").
• Climb and descend steps, stairways, or ladders several times per shift.
• Lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs. regularly and use hand tools.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment.
• Team-oriented with strong communication skills.
• Commitment to safety and safe work practices.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination required.