EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I

Biewer Lumber; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Biewer Lumber is seeking a forklift operator to load and unload lumber and to move stock safely within a fast-paced manufacturing setting in Michigan. You will handle dimensional lumber and plywood, maintain inventory accuracy, and work across departments while prioritizing safety and efficiency.

Responsibilities include operating a forklift, stacking materials, inspecting for damage, and following all OSHA safety rules. This position may require shift work and outdoor/indoor duties.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to read safety rules and operation manuals.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.
• Strong communication and teamwork.
• Mechanical aptitude and forklift operation experience.

Responsibilities

• Operate a forklift to load and unload lumber safely.
• Stack units and organize materials in storage bays.
• Move stock to maintain accurate inventory.
• Identify damaged products and monitor material quality.
• Follow safety procedures and report hazards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Forklift operation

Inventory control

Safety procedures

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

OSHA forklift certification

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.